In this first step, you'll make sure your business is properly set up on Google, verified, and consistent across platforms.
Expand each section below to follow the step-by-step instructions.
📌 Verify: Claim and Verify Your Google Business Profile
📌 Verify: Claim and Verify Your Google Business Profile
What to do
Claim ownership of your Google Business Profile (GBP) and verify it through Google’s official process.
Why it matters
Unless your business is verified, it won’t appear in local search results or on Google Maps. You also won’t be able to update info, respond to reviews, or control how your profile appears.
How to do it
Go to google.com/business
Click “Manage now”
Sign in with your business Google account (ideally using a branded domain)
Search for your business:
If found → click it → look for “Own this business?” → follow the prompts
If not found → click “Add your business to Google” and enter your details
Choose your verification method:
📬 Postcard by mail (arrives in 5–7 days)
📱 If eligible: phone, email, or instant verification
When you receive the code, return to your GBP dashboard and enter it
Common mistakes to avoid
❌ Assuming you're verified just because your listing appears
❌ Using a personal Gmail account instead of a business email
❌ Creating multiple listings for the same business
Pro Tip
Use the exact same business name, address, and phone number (NAP) across your profile and website—it helps Google trust your listing faster.
✅ Once done, your business will be eligible to appear on Google Maps and local search—and you’ll have full control over your profile.
🧭 Check: Double Check Your Business Information (NAP)
🧭 Check: Double Check Your Business Information (NAP)
What to do
Make sure your Name, Address, and Phone number (NAP) are consistent across your website, GBP, and all online listings.
Why it matters
Even small mismatches—like “St.” vs “Street”—can confuse Google and reduce your local search visibility.
How to do it
Visit your own website and copy your official NAP as listed there
Open your Google Business Profile dashboard → click “Info”
Compare the fields one by one: business name, address, phone
Search for your business name and phone number on Google
Open listings like Yelp, Facebook, Bing, Apple Maps
Fix any inconsistencies manually or through each platform’s edit tools
Common mistakes to avoid
❌ Leaving out office or suite numbers
❌ Using a call tracking number on GBP
❌ Using multiple name formats across platforms
Pro Tip
Keep a shared spreadsheet with all your NAP listings.
Tools like BrightLocal or Search Atlas can scan for inconsistencies in one click.
✅ Once done, your NAP will build trust with Google’s algorithm—and help users find you reliably across platforms.
✍️ Describe: Write a Simple, Clear Business Description
✍️ Describe: Write a Simple, Clear Business Description
Example (read first):
“At Phoenix Garden Supply, we help urban growers find the tools, soil, and support they need to grow successfully. We serve home gardeners across central Phoenix with eco-friendly solutions and hands-on advice.”
What to do
Write a short description (2–3 sentences) on your Google Business Profile that explains:
Who you are
What you do
Where you operate
What makes you different
Why it matters
This description is one of the first things customers (and Google) see. A clear, specific summary builds trust and helps your SEO.
How to do it
Open your GBP dashboard → go to “Info”
Scroll to the “Business Description” section
Write a natural-sounding paragraph including:
Your business name
Your core services
Your city or neighborhood
A short differentiator
Common mistakes to avoid
❌ Keyword stuffing
❌ Writing vague or generic claims
❌ Forgetting your service area
Pro Tip
Write like you're speaking to a real customer.
If someone unfamiliar with your business can “get it” in 10 seconds, it works.
✅ Once done, your description will boost credibility, improve click-through rates, and tell Google exactly what your business offers.
🌀 Wrap-up
You’ve now completed Step 1 of your Local SEO setup. Your business is now verified and ready to show up in Google Maps and local search results.
📚 Useful Official Resources
📘 Claim & Verify Your Profile
Add or claim your Business Profile (Google Help) — how to claim or create a GBP on desktop
Verify your business on Google (Google Help) — covers verification via phone, email, video call, postcard
Video: “Verify your business” (YouTube, official channel) — helps users visualize the verification flow
🗺️ Navigation
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