If you’ve ever Googled your business and come up with nothing, you’re not alone. Many small business owners assume that once they’ve opened their doors — or set up a social media page — their business will automatically appear in search results. Unfortunately, that’s not how it works. But the good news? It’s easier than ever to get your business on Google and start reaching more local customers online.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to show up on Google Search and Google Maps, build visibility, and drive real traffic to your business.

Why Getting on Google Matters

Google is the first place most people go when they’re looking for a product, service, or solution. Whether it’s “coffee near me,” “emergency plumber London,” or “best dog groomer in Brighton,” Google connects people with local businesses every second of every day.

If your business isn’t showing up, you’re missing out on:

• New customers who are already looking for what you offer

• Free exposure in your local area

• Increased trust and credibility

Being visible on Google is one of the most effective and affordable ways to grow your small business.

Step 1: Set Up Your Google Business Profile (GBP)

The first and most important step is to claim your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business). This is the listing that appears on the right side of search results and in Google Maps — with your name, hours, address, photos, and reviews.

How to do it:

1. Visit google.com/business

2. Sign in with a Google account

3. Enter your business name and choose the correct category (e.g. florist, electrician, cafe)

4. Add your location if you serve customers in person, or select a service area if you visit them

5. Add contact details, website, opening hours, and photos

6. Verify your business by postcard, phone, or email

Pro tips:

• Choose a category that accurately reflects your business (Google uses this to match you with searchers)

• Add high-quality images of your products, services, or premises

• Enable messaging so customers can contact you directly from your profile

• Encourage happy customers to leave reviews — and respond to them

A complete and active Google Business Profile helps you rank higher in local searches and builds trust with potential customers.

Step 2: Create a Website (Yes, Even If You Have Social Media)

While a Google Business Profile is powerful, it's not a replacement for your own website. A professional, easy-to-navigate website gives your business credibility and control. Plus, it plays a major role in search engine optimisation (SEO).

Your website should include:

• A clear home page with your value proposition

• An “About” page with your story and team

• A detailed “Services” or “Products” page

• A contact page with your address, phone number, email, and contact form

• Testimonials or reviews to build trust

• A blog or FAQ section to target long-tail keywords and help SEO

SEO tips:

• Use relevant keywords like “wedding photographer Manchester” or “mobile car valeting in Bristol” in your headings and content

• Make sure your site is mobile-friendly — Google prioritises mobile usability

• Include your location multiple times (e.g. in the footer, headings, and metadata)

• Add internal links between your pages to improve structure and navigation

Even a simple 5-page site can help you show up on Google and convert searchers into customers.

Step 3: Use Keywords Your Customers Are Searching For

When someone searches for a service on Google, they rarely search for a business name (unless they already know you). Instead, they search using keywords — phrases like:

• “accountant for freelancers UK”

• “gluten-free bakery in Sheffield”

• “how to fix a leaking tap”

To appear in those results, you need to include these keywords on your website and Google profile.

How to do it:

• Use keyword tools like Google Keyword Planner, Ubersuggest, or AnswerThePublic to find popular search terms

• Add those phrases naturally into your website text, blog posts, image alt tags, and headings

• Focus on local keywords — include your town, city, or region

• Don’t “stuff” keywords — keep it readable and human

The more relevant and helpful your content is, the better chance Google has of recommending you.

Step 4: Build Citations and Local Listings

Google cross-checks your business info across the web. When your name, address, and phone number (NAP) are consistent across other platforms, it improves your local SEO.

Where to list your business:

• Yelp

• Apple Maps

• Bing Places

• Facebook Business Page

• Local business directories (check your local council or chamber of commerce)

• Industry-specific platforms (e.g. Checkatrade, Trustpilot, TripAdvisor)

Make sure all listings use the exact same business name, address, and phone number. Even small differences (like “Street” vs “St.”) can confuse search engines.

Step 5: Collect and Respond to Reviews

Reviews are one of the biggest trust signals for both Google and potential customers. A business with consistent 4–5 star reviews is far more likely to rank well and get clicks.

How to get more reviews:

• Ask your happiest customers in person or via follow-up email

• Send them a direct link to your Google review page

• Respond to all reviews — good or bad — in a polite, professional way

Google likes to see active engagement. Responding to reviews also shows that you care, which encourages more people to leave feedback.

Step 6: Keep Your Online Presence Updated

Google rewards businesses that stay current. That means regularly updating your business hours, photos, posts, and website content.

Keep in mind:

• Update holiday hours or special events

• Add new services or product launches to your website

• Post occasional updates on your Google Business Profile

• Keep your contact info and team bios current

A neglected listing or website can signal to Google (and your customers) that your business might no longer be active.

Ready to Get Found?

Getting your business on Google isn’t just a one-time task — it’s an ongoing part of growing your online presence. But with the right setup and a little consistency, you’ll start to see real results: more visibility, more clicks, and more customers.

If all of this feels overwhelming, we’re here to help. Our team works with small businesses every day to build websites, set up Google Business Profiles, and improve search rankings — without the jargon or tech headaches.

Let us take care of your online presence so you can focus on what you do best: running your business. Start with a free online visibility score now!