How to Add a Business to Google My Business
If someone searches for your business and nothing shows up, do you even exist in their eyes? These days, most people turn to Google before stepping foot into a store or booking a service. Whether you're opening your first location or expanding into a new market, having a presence on Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is one of the most powerful—and free! —ways to get in front of local customers who are actively searching for what you offer.
At Reinstate Labs, we help businesses every day with verification, reinstatement, and profile optimization, and we’ve seen firsthand how important a properly set up and maintained profile is. In this guide, we'll walk you through exactly how to add your business to Google Business Profile, common pitfalls to avoid, and how we can help take your visibility to the next level.
Why Adding Your Business to Google Is So Important
Let’s start with the basics: why should you even care about adding your business to Google?
Increased visibility – Your business will appear in local searches, Google Maps, and the Google Local 3-Pack.
Better trust and credibility – A verified and well-maintained profile builds trust with customers.
Free advertising – It’s essentially a free listing that works 24/7.
Customer engagement – Customers can call, visit your website, or get directions—all directly from your listing.
Review management – You can build your reputation with real reviews from real, valued customers.
If you're not already listed on Google, you're missing out on valuable traffic and potential customers. Setting up your profile the right way from the start can make a big difference—and that’s where we come in. At Reinstate Labs, we’re here to help make the setup process smooth and stress-free. Contact us if you want to get your business on the map—literally.
Step-by-Step: How to Add a Business to Google Business Profile
1. Sign in to Your Google Account
Go to https://www.google.com/business and sign in with the Google account you want to associate with the business. Ideally, this should be your business email, or one you use solely for managing online tools.
2. Enter Your Business Name
Once signed in, follow the given steps and start typing your business name. If it doesn’t show up, click “Add your business to Google.”
Enter your exact business name. This is not the place to stuff in keywords—Google frowns on that, and it can lead to suspension.
Reinstate Labs Tip: Use your legal or brand name. Don’t add taglines or cities unless they’re part of your official name.
3. Choose Your Business Category
Select the primary category that best matches what your business does. This step is crucial for your visibility in search results.
You can add additional categories later, but make sure your primary category reflects your core service.
Examples:
“Nail Salon”
“Personal Injury Attorney”
“HVAC Contractor”
4. Add Your Location
If you have a physical storefront or office where customers visit you, add that address. This ensures your business shows up on Google Maps.
If you’re a service-area business (like a plumber or mobile dog groomer), you can skip the physical address and instead define the areas you serve.
5. Add Contact Information
Include your phone number and website URL (if you have one). These details help customers contact you directly and build trust with Google.
Don't have a website? Contact Doukas Media—we can create a fully functional, professionally designed website that fits your brand’s aesthetic and business goals. Check out our portfolio here.
6. Choose Verification Method
To ensure you’re the rightful owner, Google requires verification. Depending on your business type and location, you’ll see options like:
Postcard by mail
Phone call or text
Email
Video verification (live or recorded)
Once you receive the code (usually within 5–7 days by mail), enter it in your account to verify your listing.
Having trouble verifying? Reinstate Labs offers a Verification Service to help businesses navigate this step quickly and correctly, with minimal error. We will audit your profile and identify the smoothest, most efficient way to handle the verification process.
After Verification: Setting Up for Success
Once your business is verified, you’ll want to build out your profile as completely as possible. This step is often overlooked, but it's what separates hidden profiles from those that rank in the Google Local 3-Pack.
1. Add Business Hours
Be accurate and update them during holidays or special events. This helps prevent confusion and negative reviews.
2. Add Photos and Logo
Images bring your listing to life and create a sense of realness with your audience.
Upload:
A high-quality logo
Interior and exterior photos
Team photos or behind-the-scenes shots
Before-and-after project pictures
3. Write a Compelling Business Description
Use this space to highlight what makes you unique. Include services, specialties, and your service area—but don’t keyword stuff.
Example:
"Family-owned auto repair shop serving Brooklyn since 2005. We specialize in brakes, diagnostics, and engine repair."
4. Set Up Messaging
Enable messaging so potential customers can reach out directly through your profile.
5. Start Posting Weekly
Google Posts let you share updates, events, promotions, and more. Regular posting sends positive engagement signals to Google.
Need help standing out? At Reinstate Labs, we offer high-quality optimization services specifically designed to get your profile seen, especially in the highly competitive Local 3-Pack. Whether you’re looking for a one-time profile tune-up or ongoing GBP management services, our team is here to help your business reach the top of local search results. Reach out today to get started!
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Many businesses run into avoidable issues during setup or shortly after. Here’s what to watch for:
Using a Fake Address
Never use a P.O. box, UPS store, or virtual address. Google wants real locations.
Keyword-Stuffed Business Name
Google may suspend your profile if you add unnecessary words like “Best Plumber in Atlanta” as your name.
Ignoring Verification
If you skip verification, your listing won’t appear publicly, no matter how complete it is.
Having Trouble? Reinstate Labs Can Help
We know that setting up a Google Business Profile isn't always straightforward. Whether you're running into verification issues, your business isn't showing up, or you're not getting the visibility you expected—we’re here to help.
We offer:
One-Time Optimization Services
Perfect for businesses who want to get everything set up correctly from the start, including descriptions, photos, categories, and posts.
Monthly Optimization Plans
Stay competitive with regular posts, review monitoring, and keyword adjustments to increase your ranking and visibility in the Google local 3-pack.
Verification and Reinstatement Support
If your profile is suspended or verification fails, we work directly with Google to get it resolved quickly.
Adding your business to Google My Business (Google Business Profile) is a crucial step in making your company discoverable, trustworthy, and competitive in your local market. But just setting it up isn’t enough. Optimizing, maintaining, and staying up to date with Google’s evolving standards is what truly sets your business apart.
Need help? Reach out to Reinstate Labs. Whether you’re adding your first profile or managing multiple locations, we’ll make sure your listing is built to perform.
