How can people find my business on Google?
Yes, people can find your business on Google by creating a Google Business Profile, optimizing your website for search engines, and maintaining consistent online information across directories.
When someone searches for businesses like yours, Google shows results based on relevance, distance, and prominence. Your goal is to appear in these search results so potential customers can discover you.
Set Up Google Business Profile
Create Your Free Profile
Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is the most important tool for local visibility. Visit google.com/business and click “Manage now” to start. You’ll need to provide your business name, address, phone number, and category.
After entering basic details, Google sends a verification code by mail to your business address. This usually takes 5-7 days. Once verified, your business appears on Google Maps and local search results.
Complete Your Profile Information
Add complete information to your profile. According to Google, businesses with complete profiles receive 70% more location visits than incomplete ones. Include:
- Business hours (update for holidays)
- Phone number and website
- Business description (750 characters)
- High-quality photos of your location
- Services or products you offer
- Payment methods accepted
Upload at least 10 photos showing your storefront, interior, products, and team. Businesses with photos receive 42% more direction requests on Google Maps.
Collect Customer Reviews
Reviews significantly impact your visibility. Research from BrightLocal shows that 87% of consumers read online reviews for local businesses. More positive reviews help you rank higher in search results.
Ask satisfied customers to leave reviews. Respond to all reviews—both positive and negative—within 24-48 hours. This shows you value customer feedback and improves your reputation.
Optimize Your Website for Search
Use Local Keywords
Include your city, neighborhood, or region in your website content. If you’re a bakery in Austin, use phrases like “Austin bakery” or “bakery in downtown Austin” naturally throughout your site.
Add location-specific pages if you serve multiple areas. Each page should have unique content describing your services in that location.
Create Quality Content
Write helpful articles, blog posts, or guides related to your industry. A plumber might create content about “common pipe problems” or “how to prevent frozen pipes.”
According to data from HubSpot, businesses that blog receive 55% more website visitors than those that don’t. Fresh, useful content signals to Google that your site is active and valuable.
Ensure Mobile-Friendly Design
Google prioritizes mobile-friendly websites in search results. Over 60% of Google searches happen on mobile devices. Test your site at google.com/test/mobile-friendly.
Your website should load quickly, display properly on phones, and have easy-to-click buttons. Slow sites frustrate users and rank lower in search results.
Build Online Presence
List in Local Directories
Add your business to online directories like Yelp, Yellow Pages, Facebook, and industry-specific sites. Use identical information (name, address, phone) across all platforms.
The CDC and other government agencies maintain business directories in many areas. Check if your local chamber of commerce or city website offers free business listings.
Use Social Media Consistently
Create profiles on platforms where your customers spend time. Post regularly about your products, services, behind-the-scenes content, and customer stories.
Social media profiles often appear in Google search results. Active profiles with recent posts show potential customers that your business is current and engaged.
Get Listed on Google Maps
Your Google Business Profile automatically adds you to Google Maps. Ensure your map pin is accurately placed at your business location. Customers often search “near me” to find businesses, and accurate map placement helps you appear in these results.
Encourage customers to check in or tag your location in their posts. This activity signals to Google that your business is popular and relevant.
Monitor and Maintain Your Presence
Track Your Performance
Use Google Analytics to see how people find your website. Google Business Profile insights show how many people view your profile, request directions, or call your business.
Monitor which search terms bring visitors to your site. Focus on improving content for keywords that matter to your business.
Keep Information Updated
Update your business hours immediately when they change. Wrong hours frustrate customers and lead to negative reviews. Add posts about special events, promotions, or new products to keep your profile fresh.
Check your listings quarterly to ensure accuracy. Outdated phone numbers or addresses prevent customers from reaching you.
Final Thoughts
Making your business discoverable on Google requires consistent effort across multiple channels. Start with Google Business Profile as your foundation, then build out with website optimization and directory listings.
Most businesses see improved visibility within 2-3 months of implementing these strategies. Stay patient and keep your information current. For expert help with digital marketing and online visibility, WDMC Technologiesoffers professional guidance to grow your business presence.