In 2025, a strong online presence is non-negotiable for any business, regardless of its size or industry. And when it comes to local visibility, nothing quite beats a well-optimized presence on Google Maps. This isn’t just about appearing in search results; it’s about becoming discoverable to potential customers exactly when they’re looking for your products or services “near me.” Whether you’re launching a new venture or discovering an unclaimed listing, mastering Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is crucial. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to add or claim your business on Google Maps in 2025, ensuring you leverage this powerful, free tool to its fullest.
Why Your Business Needs Google Maps in 2025 📈
Gone are the days when a simple website sufficed. Today’s consumers rely heavily on digital platforms for information. Google Maps serves as a vital bridge between your business and its local customers. A comprehensive and accurate Google Business Profile allows you to:
- Boost Local SEO: Rank higher in local search results and the coveted “local pack” (the top three local businesses shown in search).
- Increase Visibility: Get found by potential customers searching for businesses like yours on Google Search and Google Maps.
- Enhance Credibility: Build trust with potential clients through customer reviews, photos, and up-to-date information.
- Drive Traffic: Direct more foot traffic to your physical location or drive more calls and website visits.
- Provide Key Information: Share your business name, address, phone number (NAP information), hours of operation, website, and even photos directly to those who need it most.
In 2025, Google continues to emphasize AI-driven features and user engagement, making an optimized Google Business Profile more critical than ever for local businesses.
Step-by-Step Guide to Adding Your Business to Google Maps 🚀
If your business isn’t yet on Google Maps, here’s how to create a new listing from scratch:
1. Sign In or Create a Google Account 📧
First, you’ll need a Google Account. It’s best to use one that you intend to use for managing your business long-term. If you already have a personal Google account, you can use that, or create a new one specifically for your business.
2. Access Google Business Profile Manager 🖥️
Navigate to business.google.com/create or simply search “add business to Google” on Google. Click on the “Manage Now” or “Add your business to Google” option.
3. Enter Your Business Name and Category 🏷️
- Business Name: Enter the official business name that appears on your signage and legal documents. Consistency is key here.
- Business Category: Choose the most accurate primary category that describes your business. Google offers a wide range of categories, so type in keywords related to your services or products, and select the best fit. You can add more specific secondary categories later.
4. Specify Your Location Details 📍
- Physical Location: If your business has a physical storefront where customers visit, select “Yes” when asked if you want your location to show on Google Maps. Then, input your accurate business address (country, street address, city, state, postal code).
- Service Area Business: If you operate a service-area business (e.g., a plumber, electrician, or consultant) that delivers goods or services to customer locations and doesn’t have a storefront, you can specify your service areas instead of a physical address. You’ll define the cities, regions, or a radius you serve.
5. Provide Contact Information and Website 📞
Enter your primary business phone number and your website URL. Even if you don’t have a website yet, it’s highly recommended to add one later for a complete online presence.
6. Verify Your Business 🔒
This is a critical step that Google uses to confirm you’re the legitimate owner. In 2025, verification methods include:
- Postcard by Mail: The most common method. Google sends a postcard with a unique verification code to your business address. This can take a few days to a couple of weeks to arrive.
- Phone or Email Verification: Some businesses might be eligible for instant verification via a code sent to their registered phone number or email address.
- Video Verification: An increasingly prevalent method. You’ll record a short video showcasing your business location, signage, and proof of management (e.g., unlocking the door, accessing POS systems, showing branded equipment). This option usually requires a mobile device.
- Live Video Call: In some cases, a Google representative might conduct a live video call to verify your business in real-time.
Once you receive your code or complete video verification, enter it into your Google Business Profile dashboard to activate your listing.
Step-by-Step Guide to Claiming Your Business on Google Maps ✨
Sometimes, your business might already have a listing on Google Maps that you didn’t create. This often happens if someone else created it, or Google automatically generated a basic profile. Here’s how to claim it:
1. Search for Your Business 🔍
Go to Google Maps or Google Search and type in your business name and location. Look for your business in the search results.
2. Find the “Own this business?” or “Claim this business” Link ✅
If your business is listed but unclaimed, you’ll see a prominent “Own this business?” or “Claim this business” button or link within the profile. Click on it.
3. Initiate the Claim Process 💼
Google will guide you through a series of prompts. You’ll typically be asked to confirm that you own or manage the business.
4. Verify Your Ownership 🔐
Similar to adding a new business, you’ll need to go through a verification process. This usually involves:
- Postcard by Mail: Google sends a postcard with a unique code to the address listed on the profile.
- Phone or Email Verification: If eligible, you might receive a code via phone call or email.
- Video Verification: As with new listings, video verification is becoming a common method to prove ownership and operational status.
- Request Access: If the listing is already claimed by someone else, you’ll have the option to “Request access.” You’ll need to provide your contact information and explain why you’re requesting ownership. Google will then contact the current owner.
Follow the instructions provided for your chosen verification method. Once verified, you’ll gain full control over the listing and can begin optimizing it.
Highlights for Your Google Business Profile in 2025 🌟
| Feature | Description | Importance in 2025 |
| High-Quality Visuals 📸 | Upload professional photos and videos of your storefront, products, interior, and team. Consider 360-degree virtual tours. | Drives engagement, increases clicks for directions and website visits. AI rewards dynamic and updated content. |
| Active Review Management ⭐ | Encourage customers to leave reviews and respond to all reviews, both positive and negative, politely and professionally. | Crucial for credibility and trust-building. Positive reviews significantly influence purchasing decisions. |
| Regular Google Posts 📢 | Use the “Posts” feature to share updates, promotions, events, new products/services. | Keeps your profile fresh and relevant, signals activity to Google’s algorithm, and increases visibility. |
| Accurate & Detailed Information ℹ️ | Ensure your hours, services, attributes (e.g., “wheelchair accessible,” “Wi-Fi”), and business description are always up-to-date and comprehensive. | Helps Google understand your business better for local search ranking and provides crucial information to customers. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 🤔
Q1: How long does it take for my business to appear on Google Maps after verification?
A1: After successful verification, it typically takes a few days to a few weeks for your business information to appear fully on Google Maps and search results. Factors like the verification method and Google’s internal processing can influence the exact timeframe.
Q2: What should I do if my business is already claimed by someone else?
A2: If your business is already claimed, you’ll see an option to “Request access” to the profile. You’ll need to fill out a form providing your contact details and explaining why you’re the rightful owner. Google will then reach out to the current owner. If there’s no response after a few days, Google may grant you ownership.
Q3: Can I manage multiple business locations from one Google Account?
A3: Yes, absolutely! Google Business Profile allows you to manage multiple business locations from a single Google Account. Once logged into your Google Business Profile Manager, you can add new locations or switch between existing ones from your dashboard, streamlining the management of your entire business portfolio.
