If you run a local business, being able to show up on Google Maps is one of the most direct ways to win customers. When someone searches for “plumber near me” or “hairdresser in Reus”, Google first shows them a map with three businesses. So, if you are not there, those calls go to someone else.
In this guide I explain, step by step and without jargon, what you need to do. It is also exactly what I do with my clients, so you can apply it yourself today.
What you need to show up on Google Maps
To appear on the map you need a Google Business Profile, which used to be called Google My Business. It is free, and you manage it from your Google account. Google also needs to confirm that your business exists and serves customers in person, either at your premises or at their home.
However, if your business is online only and you never meet customers in person, Google will not let you show up on Google Maps. In that case, it makes more sense to work on your website’s SEO in the normal results.
Step 1: create or claim your Google listing
First, search for your business name on Google Maps. Sometimes a listing already exists, created by Google or by a customer. If so, you can claim it and manage it yourself. If it does not appear, create it with your real business name, exactly as people see it on your sign.
In fact, Google explains the whole process in its guide to adding or claiming your business. Follow the steps calmly, because the details you enter now are the basis for everything else.
Step 2: verify your business
Next, Google will ask you to verify your listing. It may do so with a video of your premises, a phone call, a text message or, in some cases, a postcard with a code. Until it is verified, your business will not appear properly on the map, so do not leave it for later.
A tip: in the video, show the street, your sign and something that proves you work there, such as your tools or the till. That way, it is more likely to be accepted the first time.
Step 3: complete your listing 100%
A half-finished listing inspires little trust, both for Google and for your customers. That is why you should fill in every field:
- Primary category: choose the one that best describes what you do, for example “Plumber” rather than “Service company”.
- Additional categories: add only the ones you really offer.
- Opening hours: keep them up to date, including bank holidays and holidays.
- Phone and website: use the same details that appear on your website and social media.
- Services or products: add a short description of each one.
- Real photos: upload photos of your premises, your team and your work.
If you do not have time to do it, I can take care of it with my Google Business Profile optimisation service.
Step 4: get reviews and reply to them
Reviews are one of the factors that count most if you want to show up on Google Maps above your competitors. They are also the first thing a customer looks at before contacting you. So ask satisfied customers for a review right after the job, while the memory is still good.
The easiest way is to send them the direct link to your listing on WhatsApp. It is also important to reply to every review, both good and bad. However, never buy fake reviews, because Google detects them and can suspend your listing.
Step 5: connect your listing to a good website
Google compares the details of your listing with those on your website. If your website shows your town, your services and the same phone number, Google finds it easier to trust you. Moreover, many customers visit the website before getting in touch. Therefore, it must load fast on mobile and have a visible WhatsApp button.
If you want to know what it should include, I explain it in my article on what a local business website needs to bring in customers.
How long does it take for my business to show up on Google Maps?
Usually, your business starts appearing on the map a few days after the listing is verified. However, reaching the top results in your area takes longer. It depends on your competitors, your reviews and how complete your listing is. That is why it is a job of consistency, not of a single day.
Mistakes that keep you off the map
On the other hand, there are very common mistakes that hold many businesses back. These are the ones I see most often:
- Adding words to the name that are not part of your brand, such as “Cheap Plumber 24h”.
- Using an address that differs from the one on your website or in other directories.
- Having several listings for the same business.
- Not updating your opening hours and getting complaints because of it.
- Not uploading photos or posting anything for months.
Google also publishes its own tips to improve your local ranking, and they are worth reading.
Summary: your plan to show up on Google Maps
In short, to show up on Google Maps you need a verified, complete listing, with real reviews and a website that backs it up. After that, you just have to look after it every month. It is not magic, but it does take consistency.
If you want to know how your listing is doing right now, I will do a free audit and tell you in writing what to improve. And if you would rather I took care of everything, take a look at my local SEO and Google Maps service.
