Why This Matters
Your Google Business Profile (GBP) is the first place customers look when they need a local service.
If key information is missing or outdated, you won’t show up in search; even if you’re the best choice in town.
This checklist shows you exactly what to update so you can:
• Show up for local search terms
• Get more calls and messages
• Improve visibility in AI-driven answers
• Build trust before customers ever visit your website
Q: Can this checklist fix my ranking?
A: It can significantly improve your visibility. Most businesses see results after updating even a few items.
Start Here: Your Visibility Checklist
Use this checklist to see if your Google Business Profile is fully optimized.
1. Business Information
□ Business name matches your real-world name exactly
(no city names, keywords, or extra text)
□ The correct business category is selected
(roofing contractor, electrician, plumber, HVAC contractor, tattoo shop, cleaning service, etc.)
□ Business hours are correct and updated seasonally
□ Phone number is correct and matches your website
□ Service area is set correctly
(e.g., Winnipeg + surrounding towns; no postal codes)
2. Services & Description
□ All primary services are listed individually
(e.g., “Furnace repair,” not just “HVAC services”)
□ Business description includes:
• What you do
• Who you serve
• Your location
• Clear, simple wording (no keyword stuffing)
□ Updated service descriptions
At least your top 5 services should have short descriptions.
3. Photos & Visuals
□ Logo uploaded
□ Cover photo uploaded
□ At least 8–12 real photos of your work, team, equipment, or space
□ Images are clear, well-lit, and not AI-generated
□ Photos added or refreshed monthly
4. Reviews & Reputation
□ You request reviews consistently
□ Reviews include keywords naturally (customers do this on their own)
□ You reply to all reviews — even the short ones
□ You address concerns or misunderstandings promptly
5. Posts & Updates
□ You add at least one post every 2–4 weeks
□ Posts include:
• A photo
• A short message
• A service or seasonal update
• A call to action (call, message, learn more)
□ Posts link to your website when relevant
□ Holiday hours updated in advance
6. Website & Connectors
Google uses your website to verify information. Make sure:
□ Website URL is correct
□ Website and GBP categories align
□ Services listed on the website match your GBP
□ Your site loads fast and works on mobile
Q: Do I need a perfect website for my GBP to work?
A: No, but your website does help Google verify your services and improve ranking.
Get the Printable PDF Version
Enter your details to receive a formatted PDF version of this Website Findability Checklist.
The PDF includes:
-
A clean, organized layout
-
Room for notes and priorities
-
A simple summary of your next improvements
Use it as a guide while reviewing your current website or planning updates.
What Your Score Means
0–10 items checked:
Your GBP needs attention. Start with business info, services, and photos.
11–20 items checked:
You’re on the right track. Improve consistency and post more updates.
21–26 items checked:
Great job. You’re better optimized than most local businesses.
26+ items checked:
Your GBP is in strong shape. Time to connect it with your website and seasonal ads for full visibility.
Part of a Bigger System
If you want a personalized plan, start here:
Takes less than five minutes to get started.
Or learn how everything works as a system:
FAQs
Q: Do I need a website for my GBP to rank?
A: You can appear without one, but a website dramatically improves trust and visibility.
Q: Do I have to post often?
A: Once every 2–4 weeks is enough to stay active in Google’s eyes.
Q: What’s the most important thing to fix first?
A: Your business category, service list, and photos usually create the quickest ranking improvements.
Q: What if I don’t have many reviews?
A: Start by asking recent customers and replying to the reviews you have.