Google Business Profile Checklist
Work through your profile with this list open. Check each item as you confirm it. Progress is saved in this browser.
Why these items
Google says local results are based mainly on relevance, distance and prominence, and that complete, accurate profiles are easier to match to searches. Its own guidance is the best reference: tips to improve your local ranking and the guidelines for representing your business.
Two items are worth stressing because they get people into trouble:
- Do not add keywords to your business name. "Smith Plumbing" should not become "Smith Plumbing Best Emergency Plumber". It breaks Google's guidelines and can get a profile suspended.
- Do not pay for or reward reviews. Ask everyone, make it easy, and reply to what you get.
For the reasoning behind each section, read how to improve your Google Business Profile.
The thinking behind the tool.
How to Improve Your Google Business Profile
Your Business Profile often matters more than your website for local searches. Here is how to set it up properly and keep it working.
Read guide SEO · 2 min readLocal SEO Checklist for Service Businesses
A working checklist for showing up when nearby customers search, covering your profile, your website, reviews and listings.
Read guide SEO · 3 min readWhy Your Business Isn't Showing Up on Google
A step-by-step way to diagnose why your business or website does not appear in Google, from simple indexing problems to stiff competition.
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