How to Get Your Small Business Found on Google Maps

When someone types "plumber near me" or "coffee shop open now" into Google, the results that appear in the map section at the top get the most clicks. Getting your business into that prime spot is one of the most valuable things you can do — and it's completely free.

Here's exactly how to do it.

Step 1: Create or Claim Your Google Business Profile

Go to business.google.com and search for your business name. If it already exists (Google sometimes creates listings automatically), claim it. If not, create a new one.

This profile is what powers your Google Maps listing.

Step 2: Fill in Every Field

Google rewards completeness. Fill in:

• Business name (exactly as customers know you)
• Address (or service area if you travel to customers)
• Phone number
• Website URL — this is important; having a website significantly improves your ranking
• Opening hours — including holiday hours
• Business category — choose the most specific category that matches what you do
• Description — write 2–3 sentences about your business, naturally mentioning your location and key services

Step 3: Add Photos

Businesses with photos receive 42% more requests for directions and 35% more clicks to their websites than those without.

Add:

• Your logo
• Your premises (exterior and interior)
• Photos of your products or work
• Team photos

Aim for at least 10 photos to start.

Step 4: Get Reviews

Reviews are the single biggest factor in how high you appear on Google Maps. The more positive reviews you have, the better.

How to get reviews:

• Ask every happy customer personally
• Send a follow-up text or email with your review link
• Add a QR code to your receipts or business cards that links to your review page
• Respond to every review — Google notices engagement

Step 5: Post Updates Regularly

Google Business Profile lets you post updates, offers, and events — similar to a social media post. Posting regularly signals to Google that your business is active, which can help your ranking.

Aim for at least one post per week.

Step 6: Have a Website

Google Maps listings with a linked website consistently rank higher than those without. Your website also gives potential customers somewhere to learn more before contacting you.

ReadyWebsiteGo lets you build a professional small business website in minutes — free to start. Once it's live, add the URL to your Google Business Profile.

How Long Does It Take?

You might start seeing results within a few weeks of setting up and optimising your profile. Getting into the top 3 results (the "map pack") can take a few months of consistent effort — reviews, updates, and a good website all help.

The Bottom Line

Google Maps visibility is one of the highest-ROI activities available to a local business — and it costs nothing but time.

Ready to get your website sorted first? Try ReadyWebsiteGo free today at readywebsitego.com.