Why your small business needs a Google Business Profile

If you’re a small business owner, one of the most important things you can do is make it easy for people to find you  and Google Business Profile is one of the simplest (and free!) ways to do that.

This guide walks you through why it matters and what you need to do to get set up properly.

First - what is Google Business Profile?

It’s the listing that appears when someone searches for your business or looks for something like “hairdresser near me” or “accountant in Bracknell.” It shows you… 

• Your business name and location

• Opening hours

• Phone number and website

• Photos

• Customer reviews

• A map with directions

• Posts, updates and offers

Think of it as your online shopfront. Even if you don’t have a website, this gives you a presence people can find straight from Google or Google Maps.

Why it’s so important

Here’s what having a Google Business Profile does for your business:

Helps you show up in local searches

People are constantly searching for services near them. If your profile is complete and active, you’re far more likely to appear in those local search results, especially in the top 3 listings shown on Google Maps.

Builds instant trust

Before people call, visit or book, they often check reviews, opening times and photos. A well-maintained profile helps them feel confident about choosing you.

Gives you more visibility, even without a website

If someone Googles your name or the type of work you do, your Google Business Profile can show up before your website or Instagram ever does.

It’s free

You don’t need a big marketing budget to benefit. All it takes is a little time and consistency.

Step-by-step: how to set up your profile

Here’s how to get started:

1. Claim your business

   Visit google.com/business and click ‘Manage now.’ Search for your business name - if it’s already there, you can request to claim it. If not, add your details from scratch.

2. Verify your business

   Google will usually send a postcard to your business address with a code. It’s a bit old-school, but it’s how they confirm you’re real. Once it arrives, enter the code and you’re good to go.

3. Add your core info

   • Name, phone number, and website

   • Opening hours (including special hours if needed)

   • Business category (e.g. florist, plumber, tutor)

   • Address or service area (if you work from home, you can hide your exact address and show your service area instead)

4. Upload good photos

   Add photos of your space, products, team, or recent work. These help people get a feel for your business and build trust before they visit or buy.

5. Write a clear business description

   This is your chance to say who you are, what you offer, and why people should choose you. Keep it friendly and to the point and include words people might search for.

6. Start collecting reviews

   Ask happy customers to leave a review. Don’t be shy, most people are happy to support small businesses if you make it easy.

7. Post regular updates

   Use the ‘posts section’ to share news, events, offers or tips. This keeps your profile active and shows Google (and your customers) that you’re open and engaged.

   
   

Keep it up to date

Once you’re set up, make sure your details stay current. Update your hours if they change, respond to reviews, and keep your photos fresh. A little maintenance goes a long way.

Final note

If you’re on social media or have a website, your Google Business Profile helps tie it all together. It’s where many people will first find you and it can have a big impact on whether they take the next step.

Don’t miss out on easy traffic just because you haven’t claimed your spot.

Need help?

If you’re unsure where to start or just want someone to walk you through it, we’re here to help. 

We support small businesses with practical tools that make a difference and this is one of the most effective ones out there.

Get in touch hello@thesocialbyrd.com, we'd love to help!