Should I add keywords to my business name on Google?

No. Use your real business name exactly as customers see it. Adding keywords breaks Google's guidelines and can get your profile suspended.

How often should I post on my Google Business Profile?

Regularly enough that the profile looks active, for example when you finish a job, launch an offer or have news. Consistency matters more than volume.

How to optimise your Google Business Profile (step by step)

By Bunyamin Kidir , founder of Leadyard Published 16 October 2026 Last updated 16 October 2026

The short answer

To optimise your Google Business Profile, choose the most accurate primary category, complete every section, keep your name, address and phone number identical to your website, add your services and service areas, upload real photos, post updates regularly and ask every happy customer for a review. Then link it to a fast, relevant website.

1. Claim and verify your profile

Sign in to Google Business Profile and claim your business. Verify it using the method Google offers. Until it is verified, your changes may not show and you will not appear reliably in Maps.

2. Use your real business name

Enter your name exactly as it appears on your signage, van or paperwork. Do not add towns or services to the name. It looks tempting, but it breaks the guidelines.

3. Choose the right categories

Your primary category is one of the most important settings. Pick the one that best describes your main service. Then add a small number of secondary categories for other services you genuinely offer.

4. Get your details exactly right

Your business name, address and phone number should match your website and directory listings exactly, down to the formatting. Add your website link and your opening hours, including holiday hours.

If customers do not visit you, set your profile up as a service-area business: hide your address and list the towns or areas you cover.

5. Add your services and a clear description

List each service you offer, with a short description and prices if you publish them. Write a plain-English business description covering what you do, who you help and where you work.

6. Upload real photos

Add photos of your work, your team, your vehicles and your premises. Real photos build trust far more than stock images. Add new ones regularly.

7. Post updates

Use posts to share recent jobs, offers and news. They keep your profile looking active and give customers more reasons to choose you.

8. Build a habit of reviews

Ask every happy customer for a review, and make it easy by sending them your review link. Reply to every review, good or bad, politely and promptly.

9. Answer common questions

Check the questions section on your profile and answer anything customers ask. The same questions belong on your website too.

10. Connect it to a strong website

Your profile and your website work together. Pages that clearly describe each service and the areas you cover help Google understand when to show you. If your website is slow or vague, it holds your profile back.

Want us to check your profile and website together? Request a free website check, or see our local SEO services.