Your Google Business Profile is often the first thing local customers see. Here is how to set it up and keep it working for you.
When someone searches for a business “near me” or looks at Google Maps, the result they see first is usually a Google Business Profile. For local businesses in Sankarapuram, Kallakurichi, Chinnasalem, Tirukoilur, Ulundurpet and nearby towns, a complete and accurate profile can bring calls, direction requests and website visits. This guide walks you through it.
Step 1: Claim or create your profile
Search for your business name on Google Maps. If a profile already exists, claim it; if not, create one. Google will ask you to verify that you run the business, for example by phone, email, video or another method it offers. Use an email address the business will keep long term.
Step 2: Use your real business name
Enter your business name exactly as it appears on your signboard and documents. Do not add extra keywords or town names to the name. Google treats that as spam and it can lead to suspension.
Step 3: Choose the right categories
Your primary category has a big effect on which searches you appear in. Choose the one that best describes your main business, then add a few secondary categories for other things you genuinely offer.
Step 4: Add accurate contact details
- Address, or a service area if you visit customers rather than having them visit you
- Phone number
- Website link
- Opening hours, including special hours on festivals and holidays
Use exactly the same name, address and phone number on your website, social media and directories. Consistent details help both customers and Google trust your business.
Step 5: Add services, products and a description
List your main services or products with short descriptions. Write a plain description of what you do, who you serve and where. Write for customers, not for search engines.
Step 6: Upload real photos
Add your logo, a cover photo, your storefront so people recognise it, the inside of your shop or office, your team and examples of your work. Add new photos regularly; real, recent photos build more trust than stock images.
Step 7: Ask for reviews and reply to all of them
Ask satisfied customers to leave a review, and make it easy by sharing your review link on WhatsApp or a printed card. Never buy reviews or offer rewards for positive ones. Reply politely to every review, including negative ones; future customers read your replies.
Step 8: Keep it active
- Share updates, offers and new work using posts
- Answer questions customers ask on your profile
- Update hours before holidays
- Check your performance insights each month: calls, website clicks and direction requests
Connect your profile and your website
Your profile works best with a website that has a page for each service and the same contact details. Read our local SEO basics for the bigger picture.
Want help with your profile?
Creva Solutions sets up and manages Google Business Profiles for businesses across Kallakurichi district as part of our digital marketing service, and builds the websites they link to. Contact us to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Google Business Profile free?
Yes. Creating and managing a Google Business Profile is free.
Can I add my town name to my business name on Google?
No, unless it is part of your real business name. Adding keywords or locations to the name breaks Google’s guidelines and can get the profile suspended.
How do I get more reviews?
Ask happy customers directly, share your review link on WhatsApp or a printed card, and reply to every review. Do not buy reviews or offer rewards for them.
What if I serve customers at their location?
You can set a service area instead of showing your address, which suits businesses that visit customers rather than receiving them.