How to Use Google My Business to Improve Local SEO

How to use Google My Business for local SEO

 1.   Claim and verify your profile

First things first: claim your business on GMB. To do this, go to google.com/business, sign in with a Google account, and follow the steps to add your business. If your business is already listed, you just have to claim it.

 After that, you need to get your GMB listing verified. Google will usually mail a postcard with a code to your business address, or sometimes allow phone, email, or instant verification. Take note that without full verification, your GMB listing will have very limited reach.

 2.   Choose your business category

The next step is to select the category that best describes your business. You should be specific and choose the right category, so your listing will appear on the correct search keywords. 

For example, if you run a bakery, choose “Bakery” rather than “Food & Beverage Store.” You can also add secondary categories later, but the main category tells Google when to show your business once a customer searches online.

 3.   Write a clear business description

It’s important to tell Google and your customers what your business is all about. Your description should briefly explain what you offer and who you serve.

 You should mention key services or specialties, but avoid keyword stuffing—write for people, not search engines. 

Also, you should include your business hours, phone number, website, and any appointment or booking links. If you change hours seasonally or for holidays, update them right away. 

4.   Use authentic photos and videos

You also need to add real-life photos of your business to your GMB listing. This could be your storefront, front desk, workspace, and so on. Avoid using stock or AI-generated photos, as this could lead to the suspension of your account. 

Aside from that, adding real photos and videos to your GMB listing will tell customers that you’re a legitimate and trustworthy business. It will help increase clicks from your listing, translating to calls, orders, and profits.

5.   Use attributes and services

Once you’ve set up the basics, you should also fill in attributes like “Free Wi-Fi,” “Wheelchair accessible,” or “Women-led” if they apply. Add a detailed list of services or products you offer, and include pricing where possible. 

Take note that these attributes and services let you match specific searches. If someone searches for “pet-friendly café,” and you’ve added that attribute, you’ll be more likely to appear on search results. 

6.   Use questions & answers wisely

Customers can also leave questions on your GMB profile, so make sure that you answer them promptly. You can also add your own Q&A with common questions your customers may ask, which saves them from asking and lets them go straight to calling. 

Overall, accurate Q&As reduce friction for customers and prevent competitors or strangers from posting incorrect info. 

7.   Keep everything consistent across the web

Make sure your business name, address, and phone number are exactly the same wherever your business appears online. This includes your Google My Business listing, your website, social media pages, and other directories. 

Inconsistencies confuse customers and search engines, which could cost you revenue in the long run. So, if you moved to a new location or changed your phone number, update everywhere at once. 

Pro tip: when in doubt, ask for assistance

If all these steps sound too technical, you can always consider Google My Business management services to handle everything for you. These service providers can set up, claim, verify, and update your GMB listing, so you can focus on running your business.

It will also save you from potential mistakes that could lead to account suspension. And if your account has already been suspended, GMB specialists can help retrieve it for you.

👉 Looking for expert support? TopPosition Digital Marketing Agency offers professional Google My Business management services, helping local businesses boost visibility, attract customers, and grow online with confidence.