What is Google Business Profile?

Google Business Profile (GBP) is Google's free tool for managing how your business appears across Google Search and Maps.

History

• 2014: Launched as "Google My Business"
• 2021: Rebranded to "Google Business Profile"
• Today: Primary platform for local business visibility

Where Your GBP Appears

Your profile information displays in:

Google Search

• Local Pack (map results)
• Knowledge Panel (brand searches)
• Google Shopping (product listings)

Google Maps

• Map markers
• Business details
• Directions and navigation

Google Assistant

• Voice search answers
• "Near me" queries

Key Features

Business Information

• Name, address, phone number
• Website and hours
• Business description
• Categories and attributes

Visual Content

• Photos and videos
• Logo and cover image
• Virtual tours

Customer Interaction

• Reviews and ratings
• Q&A section
• Messaging (chat)
• Booking integration

Updates

• Posts (updates, offers, events)
• Product listings
• Service menus

Insights

• Search queries
• Customer actions (calls, directions, website visits)
• Photo views

Why GBP Matters

Visibility

• 5 billion+ daily Google searches
• 46% have local intent
• GBP is required for Local Pack appearance

Trust

• 87% of consumers read online reviews
• Star ratings visible immediately
• Photos show real business

Conversions

• Click-to-call on mobile
• One-tap directions
• Direct booking integration

Free Marketing

• No cost for basic features
• Reach customers at search moment
• Compete with paid advertisers

Who Can Create a GBP

Eligible Businesses

• Physical storefronts
• Service-area businesses
• Hybrid businesses (storefront + service area)

Not Eligible

• Virtual offices without staff
• P.O. boxes
• Businesses without customer contact
• Lead generation companies (fake addresses)

GBP vs Paid Advertising

Most successful local businesses use both.

Next Steps

Ready to create or claim your profile? The next page walks through the process step by step.