How to get your business on Google (the right way)

Getting on search has two parts: a free business profile so you appear on maps and local searches, and a website search engines can read. Claim and complete your profile (category, hours, photos, phone), make sure your website is live with clear text about what you do and where, and keep your details consistent everywhere. Both parts are free and feed each other.

When someone searches for your type of business, you want to appear — on the map and in the results. If you do not, a competitor does. Getting listed is free; here is how.

Part 1: your free business profile

Claim your business on the main map/search service and complete everything: correct category, hours, a real description, your phone, and good photos. This is what makes you appear on the map and in "near me" searches — and it costs nothing.

Part 2: a website search can read

• Have a live website with real text (not just images) describing what you do
• Say clearly what you offer and the areas you serve, in plain words
• Give each page a clear title that matches what people search
• Make sure it loads fast on a phone

Keep details consistent

Your name, address and phone should match exactly across your profile, website and any directory. Consistency builds trust with search engines and helps you rank for local searches.