Google Business Profile Checklist (Free) – Rank Higher on Maps

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Tick what is already done

Profile basics

Business name matches your signboard exactly, with no extra keywords Correct primary category, plus relevant secondary categories Map pin is accurate, or a service area is set if you visit customers Phone number is answered during business hours Website link goes to your most relevant page (with UTM tags) Opening hours, holiday hours and special hours are up to date

Content

Business description explains your services and the areas you serve Every service is added with a short description Products or menu are added, if relevant Logo and cover photo are uploaded At least 10 real photos: outside, inside, team and your work New photos are added every month

Reviews

You have a short review link and send it on WhatsApp after every job Every review gets a reply within 2 days, including bad ones You never buy reviews or give discounts in exchange for reviews You ask happy customers to mention the service they used

Activity & attributes

You post an update, offer or photo every week Booking or appointment link is added, if you take bookings Relevant attributes are set (for example online appointments, wheelchair access)

Trust & consistency

Name, address and phone are the same on your website, Facebook, Justdial and other listings Your website contact page shows the same address and a Google Map Your website has a page for each main service and area

Tracking

You check Performance in Business Profile every month (calls, directions, website clicks) You track calls and WhatsApp enquiries that come from Google

Tip: make a printable review card and WhatsApp message with our free Google Review QR Generator.

Free Audit

Get a Free Google Business Profile Audit

Share your details and our team will review your profile and send you a list of fixes. No charges, no spam.

FAQs

Google Business Profile Questions

Why is my business not showing on Google Maps?

Common reasons are an unverified or suspended profile, the wrong primary category, an address that does not match your other listings, very few reviews, or the searcher being far from your location.

Can I add keywords to my business name?

No. Google asks you to use your real-world business name. Adding extra keywords can get your profile suspended. Put services and areas in the description, services and posts instead.

How many reviews do I need?

There is no fixed number. A steady flow of fresh, genuine reviews matters more than a one-time push. Compare yourself with the top three businesses that show up for your main search.

How long do changes take to show?

Most edits show within minutes to a few days. Some changes, like name or category, may go through a review by Google first.