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How to Set Up a Google Business Profile for Your Home Service Business

How-To Guides
November 15, 2024•4 min read

Do you own a home service business like plumbing, electrical work, or HVAC? Then having a Google Business Profile (GBP) is one of the best ways to get found by local customers when they search for your services on Google. Here’s an easy, step-by-step guide to setting it up, even if you’re not a tech expert!

Why Do You Need a Google Business Profile?

Imagine a homeowner searches for a plumber or HVAC technician in your area. If you don’t have a Google Business Profile, they may not see your business at all! A GBP helps you show up in local searches and builds trust with customers. Here’s why it’s a must-have:

  • Easy to Find: When people search “plumber near me,” your business can appear in local results and on Google Maps.

  • Shows You’re Trustworthy: With reviews, photos, and updated information, customers can see you’re a professional.

  • Direct Contact Options: Your phone number, hours, and website are right there, making it easy for customers to reach you.

Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Your Google Business Profile

Step 1: Go to Google My Business

  1. Visit Google My Business.

  2. Click on “Manage Now” to start the process.

  3. Sign in with a Google account. (If you don’t have one, click “Create account” and follow the prompts.)

Step 2: Find Your Business or Create a New Listing

  1. Type in your business name—sometimes Google has already created a listing you can claim.

    • If your business name appears, click on it and follow the steps to claim it.

    • If it doesn’t appear, click “Create a business with this name” to set up a new listing.

Example: If you’re “Mike’s Plumbing Services” or “Akron Electric Pros,” use the exact name customers know you by.

Step 3: Choose the Best Category for Your Business

Select a category that closely matches what you do. This helps Google connect your business with the right search results. Here are some examples:

  • Plumber

  • Electrician

  • HVAC Contractor

  • Pest Control Service

Don’t stress if you offer multiple services—just pick the main one. You can add more details later.

Step 4: Add Your Location (Only If You Have a Physical Office or Store)

  • If customers can visit you in person (like at an office or storefront), select “Yes” and add your address.

  • If you go to customers’ homes (as most service businesses do), select “No” to skip adding a physical address. You’ll add a service area instead in the next step.

Step 5: Set Up Your Service Area

If you travel to customers instead of having a physical office, set a service area so people know where you operate. Add the towns or cities you serve, like:

  • Cleveland, OH

  • Akron, OH

  • Surrounding Northeast Ohio

Tip: Be specific! Listing the towns you service makes it easier for nearby customers to find you.

Step 6: Add Your Contact Information

This is the part that makes it easy for customers to call or message you directly:

  • Phone Number: Make sure it’s correct, so potential customers reach you on the first try.

  • Website: If you have one, link it here. If not, don’t worry—your phone number is enough for people to reach out.

Step 7: Verify Your Business with Google

Google will send a verification code by mail to ensure your business is real. Here’s what to do:

  1. Google will mail a postcard to the address you entered.

  2. When the postcard arrives (in about 5 days), log back into Google My Business.

  3. Enter the code on the postcard to confirm your business.

Tip: If you didn’t add a specific address (you just set a service area), you’ll still get a verification code sent by mail.

Step 8: Fill in the Details to Make Your Profile Stand Out

Once verified, you can fill in additional details that will make your profile look professional and inviting:

  • Business Hours: List your working hours so customers know when they can call or expect service.

  • Business Description: Write a quick, friendly description, like “Family-owned plumbing in Cleveland” or “Reliable HVAC repair services in Akron.”

  • Photos: Add a few photos—your logo, your team, or photos of your work. It builds trust with customers.

  • Services: List each service you offer, such as “Pipe Repair,” “Water Heater Installation,” or “Circuit Breaker Replacement.”

Step 9: Encourage Happy Customers to Leave Reviews

Positive reviews can help you stand out. After you finish a job, send a quick text or email to satisfied customers asking them to leave a review. Here’s how:

  • How to Ask: “Thank you for choosing [Your Business Name]! If you’re happy with our work, could you leave us a quick review on Google? It helps others find us!”

Step 10: Keep Your Profile Updated

Whenever you update your hours, add a new service, or expand your service area, make sure to update your profile too. Keeping everything current helps customers know what to expect.

Need a Hand Setting Up Your Google Business Profile or Creating a Website?

Taking the time to set up your Google Business Profile is a smart first step to getting more customers, but we understand if you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed! If you’d like some help setting up your GBP or you’re interested in a professional website to showcase your services, we’re here to make it easy. Feel free to reach out anytime at [email protected]—we’re happy to help however we can!

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