Complete GBP Checklist 2025

Step 1:

Claim and Verify Your Profile

Before anything else, you need to claim ownership of your Google Business Profile.

Go to Google Business Profile Manager

Search for your business name.

If your business appears, click “Claim this business.” If not, create a new listing.

Complete the verification process (via postcard, phone, or email).

✅ Example: A local bakery that verifies its GBP can update hours, post pictures of new pastries, and respond to reviews—features unavailable to unverified listings.

Step 2: Enter Accurate Business Information

Google rewards accuracy and consistency. Make sure your business details match across all platforms.


Business Name – Use your real-world name, no extra keywords.

Address & Location – Double-check for accuracy; use service areas if you don’t serve customers at a physical location.

Phone Number – Use a local number if possible, not just a toll-free one.

Website Link – Direct customers to your homepage or relevant landing page.

Hours of Operation – Keep them updated, especially for holidays or special events.

Step 3: Provide Excellent Customer Experiences

Categories help Google match you with relevant searches.


Primary Category – The main service you offer (e.g., “Plumber,” “Coffee Shop”).

Secondary Categories – Add supporting services (e.g., “Water Heater Installation,” “Espresso Bar”).

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t overstuff categories. Choose the most accurate options for your business.

Step 4: Add High-Quality Photos and Videos

Visuals increase engagement and build trust. Businesses with photos receive 42% more requests for directions and 35% more website clicks.

Upload a clear logo and cover photo.

Showcase your products, services, team, and location.

Add short videos (under 30 seconds) highlighting your work.

✅ Example: A local gym uploads workout class videos, helping potential clients see the environment before joining.

Step 5: Collect and Respond to Reviews

Reviews strongly influence customer decisions and local rankings.

Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews.

Respond to all reviews—thank positive ones and address concerns in negative ones.

Avoid fake reviews; Google penalizes them.

💡 Example Response:

“Thank you, Sarah! We’re glad you loved our weekend brunch special. We hope to see you again soon!”

Step 6: Use Google Posts

Google Posts function like mini-ads on your profile. Use them to keep your business fresh in search results.

Types of posts you can create:

What’s New – Announcements, updates.

Events – Promotions, seasonal sales.

Offers – Coupons or discounts.

Products – Showcase bestsellers.

Step 7: Optimize with Keywords

Use natural, relevant keywords in your business description, services, and posts.

Example: Instead of writing “We sell cakes,” try:

“We are a family-owned bakery in Ormoc City specializing in custom birthday cakes, wedding cakes, and fresh pastries daily.”

Step 8: Track Performance with Insights

Google provides valuable data on how people find and interact with your profile.

Search queries – See what keywords bring people to your profile.

Customer actions – Calls, website clicks, direction requests.

Photo views – Compare your images to competitors’.

Step 9: Keep Information Updated

Your GBP isn’t “set it and forget it.” Regular updates improve visibility and trust.

Update hours during holidays.

Add new products or services.

Post about seasonal promotions.

Refresh photos regularly.