Free tools · Guide

How to show up on Google Maps: a guide for local businesses

When someone searches for “restaurant near me” or “dentist in Boston”, Google first shows a map with three businesses. Being one of those three is worth more than any ad. This guide explains what Google uses to choose, and what you can do today.

1. Create and complete your Google profile

Your Google Business Profile is the foundation. Without it, you don't show up on the map.

1. Go to google.com/business and create or claim your business profile.
2. Pick the most precise primary category («Bakery», not «Store»).
3. Fill in your address, phone, website and opening hours, including holidays.
4. Add real photos: the front, the inside, your products and your team.

2. Your website has to confirm the profile

Google cross-checks your profile against your site. If they match, it trusts you more. On your site:

• Write your name, address and phone exactly the same as on the profile.
• Put your opening hours in text, not only in an image.
• Link to your Google Maps listing in the footer.
• Add local business structured data (a small block of code that tells Google who you are, where you are and when you're open).

3. Ask for reviews, and reply to all of them

The number of reviews, the rating and how often they come in all count. Ask happy customers right after the service, with the direct review link. Reply to every review, including negative ones, calmly and without copying the same reply.

4. The mistakes that hide you

• A different address or phone on your site, your profile and other directories.
• Outdated opening hours (Google may mark you as “closed”).
• A site Google can't read because the content only appears with JavaScript.
• A site without HTTPS, which the browser marks as “Not secure”.