Setting up your Google Business Profile

Setting up a Google Business Profile (GBP) in 2026 is the single most effective way to appear in local search results and Google’s AI-powered "Search Generative Experience" summaries.

Google has significantly tightened its security to prevent spam, so following the correct verification steps is crucial to avoid immediate suspension.

Step 1: Sign In and Search

1. Go to business.google.com  
2. Sign in with a Google Account.

Best Practice: Use a business email (e.g., you@yourbusiness.com) rather than a personal Gmail. This builds more trust with Google’s verification algorithms.

1. Search for your business name. If it appears, you will need to "Claim this business." If not, click "Add your business to Google."
   
   

Step 2: Define Your Identity

1. Business Name: Enter your name exactly as it appears on your physical signage.

• Warning: Do not add keywords (e.g., "Olympus Estate Agent - Best Estate Agent in London"). Google’s AI now flags "keyword stuffing" in titles aggressively, which can lead to suspension.
  
  

    2. Business Category: Choose a Primary Category that is as specific as possible (e.g., "South London Estate Agent" instead of just "Estate Agent"). You can add secondary categories later.

Step 3: Set Your Location

1. Storefront Businesses: Enter your physical address.
   
   
2. Service-Area Businesses (SABs): If you visit your customers and don't have a physical branch they can visit, select "No" when asked if you have a location customers can visit. You will then define your service area by city or postcode.
   
   
3. Hybrid: If you have a branch and visit customers, you can do both.

Step 4: Contact & Verification (The 2026 Standard)

1. Enter your Phone Number and Website URL.

2. Verification: In 2026, Google defaults most new businesses to Video Verification.

• The Video Method: You must record a continuous, unedited video showing:
  • Location: Street signs or nearby recognisable landmarks.
  • Equipment: Your tools, branded vehicle, or marketing materials.
  • Management: You are unlocking the door or accessing the POS system/office.

Alternative: Some established businesses may still see Postcard, Phone, or Email options, but these are becoming rare for new listings.

2026 Best Practices for Ranking

To move from "just listed" to "top of the pack," follow these optimisation rules:

• The "NAP" Rule: Ensure your Name, Address, and Phone number are identical across your website, Facebook, Yelp, and your Business Profile. Inconsistency is a major red flag for Google.
  
  
• High-Res Visuals: Profiles with at least 15 high-quality photos (interior, exterior, and team) receive significantly more clicks. In 2026, Google’s AI analyses these images to understand what you sell.
  
  
• Engagement is the New SEO: Google now prioritises "active" profiles.
  • Post Weekly: Use the "Updates" feature to share news or offers.
  • Q&A Section: Don't wait for customers to ask questions. You can post your own "Frequently Asked Questions" and answer them yourself to provide immediate value.
    
    
• Enable Messaging: Many customers in 2026 prefer to text a business directly from the search result. Turn on the "Chat" feature, but ensure you reply within 24 hours to maintain your "responsive" badge.
  
  
• Keywords in Description: Write a 750-character description. Mention your primary service and your city/neighbourhood naturally in the first two sentences.
  • Read our Keyword-optimised business description for Google Business Profile article on writing a description with key points to consider to remain 'keyword-optimised'