How to Create & Verify Your Google My Business Account
Google Business Profile (previously called Google My Business) helps your business appear on Google Search and Google Maps when customers look for services near them.
What Is Google My Business (Google Business Profile)?
Google My Business is a free Google tool that allows businesses to:
- Appear in local search results
- Show on Google Maps
- Display business details like phone number, address, photos, and reviews
In simple words:
It helps customers find and contact your business easily on Google.
Why Google My Business Is Important
A verified Google My Business profile helps you:
- Get more local visibility
- Receive calls, visits, and enquiries
- Build trust through reviews
- Appear in “near me” searches
- Improve local SEO rankings
How to Create a Google My Business Account
Step 1: Go to Google Business Profile
- Visit: https://www.google.com/business
- Sign in using your Google account
- Click “Manage now”
Step 2: Enter Your Business Name
- Type your exact business name
- If your business already exists, claim it
- If not, click Add your business to Google
Use real business name (no keyword stuffing).
Step 3: Choose Your Business Category
- Select the main category that best describes your business
Example:- Digital Marketing Agency
- Restaurant
- Plumbing Service
Category affects your local ranking—choose carefully.
Step 4: Add Business Location
- If you have a physical office/store, select Yes
- Enter full address correctly
- If you serve customers at their location, select No and add service areas
Step 5: Add Contact Details
- Phone number
- Website URL (if available)
Make sure details match your website (NAP consistency).
Step 6: Complete Profile Setup
- Add business hours
- Add services or products
- Upload logo and photos (optional now, important later)
How to Verify Your Google My Business Account
Google needs verification to confirm you own or manage the business.
Common Verification Methods
1. Postcard Verification (Most Common )
- Google sends a postcard with a code
- Delivered within 5–14 days
- Enter code in dashboard
2. Phone or SMS Verification
- Available for some businesses
- Receive OTP via call or message
- Enter code and verify
3. Email Verification
- Some businesses get email option
- Click verification link sent by Google
4. Video Verification (New Method )
- Record a short video showing:
- Business location
- Signboard
- Tools or workspace
- Upload for Google review
Verification time varies from minutes to a few days.
Real-Life Example
Example: Local Salon Business
- Business listed on Google
- Verified using postcard
- Added photos & working hours
Result:
- Appeared in “Salon near me”
- More calls from Google Maps
- Increased walk-in customers
What to Do After Verification (Important)
Once verified:
- Add business description
- Upload real photos
- Add services/products
- Collect customer reviews
- Post regular updates
A complete profile ranks better.
Common Mistakes to Avoid ❌
- Fake business names
- Wrong category selection
- Skipping verification
- Adding incorrect address
- Creating duplicate listings
