Confirm eligibility and ownership
Before creating or changing a profile, check that the real-world business meets Google's eligibility requirements. Keep primary ownership with the business and use an account the organisation controls. Online-only businesses and virtual offices do not automatically qualify.
Review Google's current Business Profile guidelines before making changes.
Use accurate information
Check the business name, category, hours, phone, website and service information against the way the business actually operates. Avoid adding keywords to the business name or selecting categories only to appear for more searches.
Treat verification as Google's process
Verification methods and review times are determined by Google and can vary. Provide requested information through the official profile workflow; no agency can guarantee approval or a Maps position.
Maintain updates responsibly
Keep hours, contact details and services current. Only publish photos and updates the business has permission to use. Respond to reviews in a professional way and follow platform rules; do not offer incentives for positive reviews.
Measure without overpromising
Use profile performance information as one signal alongside calls, enquiries and website activity. Local visibility is influenced by factors including relevance, distance and prominence, and results differ by searcher and context.
Google's local ranking guidance describes how local results are determined.