Updated October 2026
When people search for "pharmacy near me" or "best suya spot in Abuja", Google shows a map with three businesses at the top. Those businesses get the calls. Getting on that map is free, and it is one of the most valuable things a small business can do.
Here is how it works, in plain steps.
Your listing on Google Maps is called a Google Business Profile. It shows your business name, location, phone number, opening hours, photos and reviews. Anyone with a Google account can create one for their business at no cost.
Search for "Google Business Profile" and sign in with a Gmail account you will keep long term. Use a business email if you can, not a staff member's personal account.
Do not stuff extra keywords into the name. "Glow Hair Studio" is right. "Glow Hair Studio Best Salon Lekki Lagos Cheap Braids" can get your listing suspended.
Pick the closest main category, such as "Hair salon", "Restaurant" or "Building contractor". This matters a lot for which searches you appear in.
If customers visit you, drop the pin on your exact location. Many African addresses are informal, so use a clear landmark in the address line, for example "opposite the main gate of the University". If you go to customers (plumbers, caterers, cleaners), set a service area instead and hide your home address.
Use a number that is answered, ideally your WhatsApp Business number. Add your website link, because Google trusts listings that connect to a real website.
Google will ask you to prove the business is real. Depending on your country and category this can be a video showing your premises and signage, a phone call, or another method. Follow the instructions carefully. Unverified listings do not show properly.
Add opening hours, at least 10 real photos (outside, inside, products, team), a short description and your services or menu. Complete profiles rank higher.
The biggest factors are how close you are to the person searching, how relevant your category and details are, and how trusted your business looks. You control the last two. Ask every happy customer for a Google review, reply to every review politely, post photos regularly, and keep your hours accurate, especially on holidays.
Creating several duplicate listings, using a personal Gmail that a former staff member controls, a wrong pin location, no photos, and no website link. Each one makes it harder for customers to find and trust you.
Every SiteDrum plan includes setting up your Google Business Profile and linking it to your new website, so customers who find you on the map can see your prices and message you on WhatsApp straight away.
Yes. Creating a Google Business Profile is free. You only pay if you choose to run Google ads.
Once verified, listings often appear within days, though reaching the top three takes reviews, photos and a complete profile.
No, but listings linked to a real website look more trustworthy to customers and give them somewhere to see your prices and services.
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