Google Business Profile Setup Guide

The Basics

What Is A Google Business Profile?

A Google Business Profile (GBP) is your free business listing on Google. When customers search for your business or services like yours in your area, your profile shows up on Google Search and Google Maps.

Think of it as your digital business card on Google. It is completely free and one of the best ways to get found by new customers.

Preparation

Before You Start

Gather these items to make setup quick and easy

Implementation

Step-By-Step Setup Instructions

Follow these 8 steps to get your profile live

1. 1

   Go To Google Business Profile

   • Open your internet browser (Chrome, Safari, Edge, etc.).
   • In the address bar at the top, type: business.google.com and press Enter.
   • Click the blue button that says "Manage now" or "Sign in."
   • Sign in with your Google (Gmail) account.

   Pro Tip

   If you are already signed in to Gmail, it will skip the sign-in step automatically.

2. 2

   Enter Your Business Name

   • A box will appear asking "What's the name of your business?" Type in your business name exactly as you want customers to see it.
   • As you type, Google may show a list of suggestions. If your business is already listed, click on it. If not, click "Create a business with this name."
   • Click "Next."

   Important

   Do not add extra words like your city name or keywords into your business name. Just use your real business name.

3. 3

   Choose Your Business Category

   • Google will ask "What category best describes your business?"
   • The correct category should be "Insulation contractor"
   • Click "Next."
4. 4

   Choose Whether You Have A Physical Location

   • Google will ask if you want to add a location customers can visit (like a shop or office). Having your address shown will increase your rankings.
   • If customers can come to your location, click "Yes" and enter your address on the next screen.
   • If you work at customers' homes or job sites (no storefront), click "No."
   • Click "Next."

   Contractor Note

   Most contractors choose "No" since they travel to the customer. You will be asked to enter a service area instead.

5. 5

   Add Your Service Area

   • Google will ask what area you serve. You can type in city names, counties, or zip codes.
   • Add all the areas where you take jobs.
   • Click "Next" when done.
6. 6

   Add Your Contact Information

   • Enter your business phone number.
   • Enter your business website address if you have one. If you do not have a website, you can leave it blank or skip it.
   • Click "Next."
7. 7

   Verify Your Business

   This is the most important step. Google needs to confirm that your business is real and that you are the owner. Read this section carefully before you start.

   What to Expect:

   • Google will show you one or more verification options. The most common option right now is video verification.
   • You may also see options for a phone call or text message code. If you do, go ahead and try it. However, be aware: even if the phone or text verification goes through and says it worked, Google will very often still suspend your profile shortly after and require you to complete a video verification anyway. This is normal and not a sign that something went wrong.
   • If your profile gets suspended, do not panic. Just follow the prompts in your Google Business dashboard to start the video verification process.

   How to Complete Video Verification:

   • When prompted for video verification, Google will ask you to record a short video using your phone. You do not need any special equipment, just your smartphone.
   • The video needs to show proof that your business is real. Google typically wants to see: your business signage or branded vehicle/equipment, your work location or job site, and any tools or materials you use.
   • Follow the on-screen instructions. Google will walk you through exactly what to film. Keep the camera steady and make sure things are clearly visible.
   • Once you submit the video, Google will review it. This can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days.
   • You will receive an email notification when your profile has been approved and is live.

   Filming Tip

   Before filming, make sure you have good lighting and that your business name is visible somewhere in the video if possible, such as on your truck, shirt, or a sign. The clearer and more professional your video looks, the faster the approval tends to go.

   Critical

   Do not skip verification. Your profile will not show up on Google until it is fully verified and approved.

8. 8

   Fill Out Your Profile

   Once verified, Google will walk you through adding more details. Take your time to fill these in as completely as possible.

   • Business Hours: Add your normal working hours for each day of the week.
   • Business Description: Write 2-3 sentences about what you do and why customers should hire you. Keep it simple and clear.
   • Services: Add a list of the specific services you offer (for example: spray foam, attic insulation,).
   • Photos: Upload at least 3-5 photos. Pictures of your completed work, your truck or equipment, or yourself on the job all work great.

   Photo Power

   Businesses with photos get significantly more clicks and calls than those without. Even a few good photos make a big difference.

Next Steps

After Your Profile Is Live

Once your profile is verified and live, here are a few things to keep in mind: