How to Appear on Google Maps: 2025 Guide + Checklist

Discover how to appear on Google Maps and increase your business visibility

Appearing on Google Maps is one of the most effective ways for new customers to find your business without investing large advertising budgets. Every day, thousands of people search products and services near them: “coffee shop near me” or “auto repair in downtown”. In all these cases, the first results that show up are the businesses registered and optimized on Google Maps.

If your company doesn’t appear there, you’re missing a valuable opportunity to connect with local clients. In this guide, you’ll learn how to appear on Google Maps, step by step and without technical jargon: from creating your business listing to optimizing it so you stand out from competitors.

The importance of being on Google Maps

Google Maps is more than just a navigation tool: it’s the bridge between people and local businesses. Over 80% of users rely on Maps to find nearby restaurants, stores, or services. Being there means more visibility, stronger credibility, and greater online and in-store traffic.

Moreover, appearing correctly on the map also improves your local ranking on Google Search, helping your business show up in searches related to your area or services.

Step 1: Create your Google My Business profile

The first step to appear on Google Maps is to register your company in Google My Business (now called Google Business Profile). This free tool lets you manage all your public business information, which will appear both on Maps and in search results.

Follow these steps:

1. Go to Google My Business.
2. Sign in or create an account using your Google credentials.
3. Add your business name, category, address, and phone number.
4. Specify whether you serve customers at a physical location or offer delivery/service areas.
5. Add your opening hours and website links.

If you need estra help, in this Roco´s guide we explain you how to add a place on Google Maps step-by-step.

Step 2: Verify your business ownership

Google must confirm that you are the legitimate owner or authorized representative. Verification is usually done by mail, you’ll receive a postcard containing a verification code at your business address. Once you enter that code, your business becomes officially verified and visible on the map.

Step 3: Optimize your profile to stand out

Just appearing on Maps isn’t enough: you need to stand out. An optimized profile increases your chances of ranking higher and attracting more visitors.

Optimization tips:

• Write a clear and engaging description explaining who you are and what you offer.
• Use natural keywords like artisanal coffee shop in (your location) or 24-hour auto repair in (your location).
• Upload high-quality photos of your location, staff, and products.
• Add detailed information about your services or main products.
• Keep your hours, address, and contact info up-to-date.

For a complete optimization strategy, visit our SEO Services, where we explain how to improve your visibility and ranking on both Google Maps and Google Search.

Step 4: Get positive reviews

Customer reviews are one of the most influential factors in local Google Maps rankings. Ask satisfied customers to share their experience and always reply professionally

Best practices:

• Thank users for positive feedback with personalized responses.
• Handle negative reviews with empathy and offer solutions.
• Display reminders or QR codes in your store to make leaving reviews easier.

Step 5: Keep your profile active

Google rewards businesses that stay active. Post regularly about updates, promotions, or events related to your business. This shows that your company is engaged and reliable, and helps maintain your local ranking.

Useful post ideas:

• New products or services.
• Updated business hours or locations.
• Discounts and special offers.
• Customer testimonials or recent projects.

Benefits of appearing on Google Maps

Showing up on Google Maps doesn’t just help people find you: it also strengthens your digital presence, builds trust, and increases your sales opportunities.

• Greater local visibility: customers find you right when they need you.
• More traffic to your website and store: easy clicks for calls, directions, and visits.
• Higher local ranking: : optimized profiles appear higher in Google results.
• Stronger credibility: positive reviews boost your online reputation.
• Increased sales: people searching on Maps have high purchase intent.

Take your business to the next level!

We know growing your business online can seem complex and time-consuming. At Agencia Roco, we specialize in boosting your brand visibility, optimizing your Google Maps presence, and positioning your business where your clients are searching.