How do I create a Google My Business profile for my home service business?

The short answer is: Start by visiting google.com and searching for ‘Google Business Profile’. From there, sign in, enter your business name thoughtfully—making sure it includes your main service—and follow through with creating your profile. Choosing the right business type options is also essential for better visibility.

Full Explanation

Creating a Google My Business profile is a crucial step to get your home service business noticed online. Begin by going to google.com and searching the term ‘Google Business Profile’. You will want to click on the first organic search result, which directs you to the proper Google Business Profile setup page. From there, click the ‘Sign in’ button to start entering your business information.

When you enter your business name, ensure that the name clearly represents the main service you provide. For example, if your name is Lior and you offer locksmith services, a name like “Lior’s Locksmith” helps Google understand your business better. This is extremely important because the business name heavily influences how Google ranks your profile in search results.

If your business is newly started and you don’t already have a definitive name, make sure to include your primary service in the name now. If your business is already established under a different name, consider using a Doing Business As (DBA) name that incorporates your main service. Consistency in your business name across the internet—on your website, Yelp, and other platforms—is key for better rankings and customer recognition.

After entering your business name, click on ‘Create a business with this name’ and then ‘Continue’. The next important step is selecting your business type. The recommended approach for home service businesses is to select both ‘Local Store’ and ‘Service Business’. This is because Google places more priority on businesses that have a physical location rather than just mobile service businesses, which can enhance your visibility in local search results.

Step-by-Step Breakdown

1. Go to google.com and search ‘Google Business Profile’.
2. Click on the first organic search result to reach the profile setup page.
3. Click ‘Sign in’ to access the creation form.
4. Enter your business name, ensuring it includes your main service for SEO benefits.
5. If your business name is set, you may create a DBA to include the service keyword.
6. Click ‘Create a business with this name’ and then ‘Continue’.
7. Select your business type, choosing both ‘Local Store’ and ‘Service Business’ for best results.

Real Examples

Consider the example of a locksmith named Lior. Instead of just using “Lior” as the business name, which doesn’t describe the service, Lior opts for “Lior’s Locksmith”. This name directly tells Google and potential customers what the business offers.

Consistency is also important. If Lior uses “Lior’s Locksmith” across the website, Google My Business profile, and other directories like Yelp, it reinforces the brand and the service in Google’s algorithm.

Common Mistakes

• Choosing a business name that does not include the main service, which can hurt search ranking.
• Failing to maintain consistent business naming across all platforms, causing confusion for Google and potential clients.
• Selecting only ‘Service Business’ without including ‘Local Store’, which might limit exposure since Google favors businesses with physical locations.
• Skipping the sign-in process on the correct Google Business Profile page, which leads to difficulties in setting up and managing the profile.

FAQs

What if I don’t have a business name yet?

Make sure to choose a business name now that reflects the main service you provide. This helps Google rank your business more effectively.

Why is it important to include the service in the business name?

Google uses your business name as a key ranking factor. Including the main service in the name improves discovery in local searches.

Can I change my business name later?

Yes, but it’s best to choose a consistent, SEO-friendly name at the start to avoid confusion across platforms.

Should I select only ‘Service Business’ or both ‘Local Store’ and ‘Service Business’?

Choosing both options is best because Google prioritizes businesses with physical locations along with services, increasing your profile’s visibility.

Key Takeaways

• Start by searching for ‘Google Business Profile’ on Google and sign in to begin setup.
• Choose a business name that clearly includes your main service to help improve Google rankings.
• Use a DBA if you already have a name but want to include your service for SEO benefits.
• Ensure your business name is consistent across all online platforms.
• Select both ‘Local Store’ and ‘Service Business’ for your business type to maximize visibility on Google.