Local SEO for shops: start with your Google Business Profile

Why your Google profile matters

When someone searches “phone repair near me” or “coffee shop nearby”, Google usually shows a map with a few places above the regular results. A complete profile with real photos and good reviews helps your shop get into that group.

For local shops and service businesses, this is often the first free source of customers worth working on.

Five things to do in week one

1. 1Verify ownership of the profile so you can edit it.
2. 2Pick the right primary category, because Google uses it to understand what you sell.
3. 3Fill in your hours, phone number and website.
4. 4Upload real photos of your shop, products and team.
5. 5Ask regular customers for reviews and reply to every one.

Keep your details consistent

Your name, address and phone number should match exactly on your website, social profiles and directory listings. Mismatched details make Google trust your profile less.

Track the results

Your Google profile already reports views, calls and direction requests. Check them once a month to see which photos, posts or reviews bring people in.