If you’ve ever searched for a business on Google Maps or Google.com and seen a little box pop up with its hours, address, photos, and reviews—that’s a Google Business Profile.
It’s one of the most important marketing channels available to local businesses, and yet many don’t take full advantage of it.
So, what exactly is it, where does it show up, and how do people use it?
A Google Business Profile (GBP) is a free listing that businesses can create and manage on Google. It tells potential customers all the key information about your business—like your name, location, hours, website, phone number, and even photos—right inside Google’s search results and on Google Maps.
Think of it as your business’s digital storefront. Your most visible landing page.
Whether someone is searching for your brand directly or just looking for a service you offer (i.e. “restaurant near me”), your Google Business Profile is what shows up first—before your website, Instagram, or even your Yelp page.
Where Does It Appear?
Your Google Business Profile appears in two main places:
- Google Search
When someone searches for your business or a related keyword with local intent, your Google Business Profile shows up at the top of both desktop and mobile Google.com search results.
- Google Maps
Your Google Business Profile also appears in Google Maps app search results. When people search for businesses in the area, Google Maps results are sorted based on location, relevance, and the optimization of your profile.
What Can You Use It For?
An optimized and well-managed Google Business Profile lets you:
- Show up for local searches (“coffee near me”, “best dentist Toronto”)
- Share your hours, address, phone number, and website
- Post updates like special offers or seasonal announcements
- Upload photos and videos to showcase your space or products
- Collect and respond to customer reviews
- Add booking or ordering buttons (for restaurants, spas, etc.)
- Let customers message you directly
It’s like having a mini-website that lives inside Google’s ecosystem—but it’s faster, more visible, and completely free.
How Do Customers Use It?
Most people don’t bother going to a business’s website anymore—especially when they’re on their phone.
Instead, they:
- Search on Google.com or Google Maps
- Scroll through the Google Business Profiles displayed
- Check the hours
- Call you directly from the listing
- Click for directions
- Look through your reviews
- Judge your business based on your photos
- Book a service or place an order—right from the Google Business Profile
It’s fast. It’s easy. And in most cases, your Google Business Profile is the only place a customer looks before deciding to visit, call, or skip.
GBP is your most powerful marketing asset for attracting customers who are nearby and ready to buy.
If you’re a local business and you haven’t claimed or optimized your Google Business Profile, you’re missing out on free traffic, footfall, and visibility.
Visit MapLabs.com to learn how we help thousands of businesses grow with Maps Marketing.
Want to know more?
🎥 Watch ‘Why Every Business Needs Maps Marketing’ video below!
