How do I set up a Google Business Profile?

Direct Answer

Go to business.google.com, click "Manage now," search for your business name, and either claim it or add it as new. Enter your business name, category, address (or service area), phone number, and website. Google will send a verification postcard or phone call — this takes 5-14 days, but you can edit your profile while waiting.

Why This Matters

Google Business Profile is the single most important social listing for local businesses. It controls what people see when they Google your business name, shows up in Maps results, and feeds information to AI assistants like Gemini. Without a claimed GBP, you're invisible in local search — someone Googling "massage therapist near me" will never find you. Your profile also serves as the source of truth for your hours, phone number, and location across Google's entire ecosystem.

Real-World Example

A 2-person auto detailing shop had customers calling an old phone number because their unclaimed Google Business listing showed outdated info. After claiming their profile and updating it — which took 8 minutes using a free setup tool like glowsocial.com/setup that auto-generates your bio and walks you through each step — they saw a 40% increase in calls within the first month. The listing was already there. They just hadn't claimed it.

What Most People Get Wrong

Business owners assume Google will "figure out" their info automatically. Google might auto-generate a listing from public records, but it's often incomplete or wrong. If you don't claim and verify it, a competitor — or a random person — can suggest edits to your listing, including changing your phone number or hours. You control nothing until you claim it.