When someone does certain location-based searches in Google, business listings will often be displayed (signified by a marker), sometimes accompanied by a map. These results are known as Google Local Business listings and are managed by Google My Business.
Google will sometimes already have a business listed because it looks at existing databases such as Yellow Pages. If it already has your business listed, you can "claim" or "verify" that listing and then update its details. If not, you can add a new listing.
To see if you are already listed, go to https://www.google.com/business/ and do a search for your full business name followed by your location.
If your business shows up, click the listing, and follow the instructions to verify your ownership of that business.
If your business does not show up, click the "Add your business" link, or click the cog icon in the top right and choose "Create new page". Follow the instructions to add your business details.
Google provides additional information on verifying your local business listing here: https://support.google.com/business/answer/2911778
Some key tips for improving your search engine rankings for location-based keywords:
- If your business services a broad area (e.g. you attend a customer's premises) then specify this option using the instructions at https://support.google.com/business/answer/3038163 (otherwise, Google may only show your business for a tight geographic region).
- Choose three categories for your business when prompted. Google will suggest possible category matches as you start typing. Perform Google searches as a prospective customer and see which categories are listed for your competitors to help you choose the most relevant categories.
- Fill out as much information as possible, including uploading a logo and photos, contact details, trading hours, a description, payment methods, etc. Incomplete information will reduce your chance of appearing.
- Encourage customers to leave reviews on your Google listing by doing a search for your business and clicking the "Write Review" button that shows on the right-hand side. Business customers will find this easier because they will already have a Google account. Customers that have a Gmail email address will also find this process easier as they will already be logged-in to a Google Account.
You will need a Google Account in order to use Google My Business and claim your Google Local Business listing. Get help creating a Google Account.
