Setting up your Google Business Profile (GBP) correctly from the beginning is essential to ensure your business appears accurately and prominently in local search results. Whether you’re launching a new location or claiming an existing profile, use this checklist to make sure everything is in place.
Step-by-Step GBP Setup Checklist:
- Claim or Create Your Profile
- Business Name
- Use your real-world business name (avoid keyword stuffing).
- Address & Location Accuracy
- Ensure your address is precise, especially if you serve customers in person.
- Use the map pin to fine-tune your location.
- Business Category Selection
- Choose the most accurate primary category.
- Add relevant secondary categories.
- Phone Number & Website
- Use a local phone number (avoid toll-free lines if possible).
- Ensure your website link directs to a relevant landing page.
- Hours of Operation
- Set regular hours and add special holiday hours when applicable.
- Business Description
- Write a clear and keyword-optimized description of what your business offers.
- Services & Products
- List key services or products with short descriptions.
- Add High-Quality Photos
- Upload your logo, cover photo, interior/exterior shots, staff photos, and products.
- Use geo-tagged and up-to-date images.
- Add Attributes
- Select attributes like “wheelchair accessible,” “free Wi-Fi,” etc., depending on your business type.
- Verification
- Complete the verification process via postcard, email, or phone to activate your listing.
- Enable Messaging (Optional)
- Turn on messaging if you can respond quickly.
- Create Your First Google Post
- Publish an announcement, promotion, or welcome post to engage visitors.
- Monitor for Duplicate Listings
- Check and report duplicates to avoid confusion and ranking penalties.
- Connect Google Analytics & UTM Tags
- Add UTM tracking to your website link for better performance tracking.
Setting up your Google Business Profile (GBP) correctly from the beginning is essential to ensure your business appears accurately and prominently in local search results.
Final Tip:
Setting up your GBP correctly sets the foundation for all future local SEO efforts. If you’re unsure or want it done right the first time, Sproudt can help.
👉 Get Help with Your Setup