In the digital age, visibility is everything. If your business doesn't appear on Google, it practically doesn't exist for many potential customers. That's why creating a Google My Business profile (currently called Google My Business) is so important. Google Company Profile) is one of the most important steps for any business seeking to position itself locally.
In this article you will learn what Google My Business is, why it is so useful, and how to create one step by step to improve your company's online presence and attract more customers.
What is Google My Business and what is it used for?
Google My Business is a free tool from Google that allows businesses to manage their presence on Search and Google Maps. Through it, you can display key information about your business, interact with customers, and analyze how people find you online.
With an optimized profile, you will be able to:
- Display essential information such as address, phone number, opening hours, and website.
- Appear in local search results and on Google Maps.
- Publish news, promotions or events.
- Receive and respond to customer reviews.
- Analyze statistics on visits, clicks, and calls.
In other words, creating a Google My Business listing opens the digital door to your business for local customers who are looking for you. Want to learn more about Google My Business? We invite you to watch this short video: “What is Google My Business and how does it work?” and discover how this tool can boost the visibility of your local business.
Why should you create a Google My Business?
Having an active and optimized profile not only improves your visibility, but also increases customer trust.
When someone searches for a product or service in their area, verified business profiles are the first to appear.
Main advantages:
- Greater local reachYour customers will be able to easily find you on Google and Maps.
- Centralized management: all your business information in one place.
- Online reputationReviews increase credibility and build trust.
- Analysis of dataDiscover how many people view your profile, call, or request directions.
- Free marketingWith posts and photos you can attract more visits without investing in advertising.
How to create a Google My Business step by step
Creating your profile is a simple process, but every detail counts. Follow these steps to set it up correctly from the start.
1. Sign in with your Google account
If you already have a Gmail account, use it to log in to Google My Business. Otherwise, create a new account (preferably with your company name).
2. Research your business before creating it
Sometimes Google already generates listings automatically.
- If your company appears, select “Claim this company”.
- If it doesn't exist, click on "Add your business to Google".
3. Add the name and category
- Write the real name of your business.
- Choose a primary category that describes your business (for example, "Italian Restaurant" or "Marketing Consultant"). This will help Google show your business to the right people.
4. Define your location or service area
- If you have a physical store, add the exact address.
- If you work at home or by zones, select "I offer goods and services at the customer's location" and define your coverage area.
5. Add contact information and website
Include your phone number, website, or failing that, a link to your WhatsApp Business or social media.
6. Verify your company
This is the most important step to complete the creation. Google can verify you through:
- SMS or phone call.
- Corporate email.
- Video or virtual tour (showing sign, interior of the premises or work vehicle).
- Postcard with verification code (takes between 5 and 10 days).
Once verified, you will have full control over your profile and can edit it freely.
How to optimize your profile after creating a Google My Business
Once configured and verified, the next step is optimize your profile.
This is what will make the difference compared to your competitors.
1. Complete and up-to-date information
Always keep your information up to date: address, opening hours, phone number, website and services.
Consistency of this information across Google, social media, and your website (NAP) improves your local ranking.
2. Add high-quality photos and videos
Profiles with attractive images receive up to double clicks than those without visual content.
It includes photos of the premises, products, team, and results.
3. Publish news and promotions
Google allows you to create publications with text, images, and action buttons.
Take advantage of this feature to announce discounts, events, or new product launches.
4. Manage reviews and questions
Responding to reviews demonstrates commitment to your customers.
Encourage positive feedback and respond to criticism professionally.
5. Review the statistics
From the control panel you can find out:
- How users find you (direct search or discovery).
- What actions do they perform (calls, clicks, or route requests)?.
- Which posts or photos generate the most interaction?.
This data will help you improve your local strategy.
Common mistakes when creating a Google My Business
Avoid these mistakes that can limit your visibility or even lead to your profile being suspended:
- Use a name with keywords (not matching the real name).
- Duplicate records of the same business.
- Not verifying the account or leaving it incomplete.
- Uploading low-quality or outdated images.
- Ignoring reviews or leaving questions unanswered.
Remember: your profile is your company's digital storefront. Take care of it and update it regularly.
The foundation for local growth
Creating a Google My Business listing is an essential step to stand out in search results and build a strong online presence. More than just a business profile, it's a local marketing tool that allows you to attract, inform, and retain customers at no cost.
At Agencia Roco, we help you set up, verify, and optimize your business profile to achieve the best results in local visibility. Want to learn how to manage your business profile like a pro?
Español de Colombia 
English 
