What is Google Business Profile?
Google's free tool for managing how your business appears in Google Search and Google Maps.
Definition
Google Business Profile (GBP), formerly known as Google My Business (GMB), is a free tool provided by Google that allows businesses to manage their online presence across Google Search and Google Maps. A GBP listing includes your business name, address, phone number, website, hours, categories, attributes, photos, posts, reviews, Q&A, and more. It is the single most important element of local SEO, as it directly controls how your business appears in the Local Pack, Google Maps, and the Knowledge Panel.
Why it matters
Your GBP is the foundation of your local SEO strategy. It is often the first impression potential customers have of your business and directly influences whether you appear in the Local Pack. A fully optimized GBP can increase profile views, phone calls, website clicks, and direction requests by 50% or more compared to incomplete profiles. Google prioritizes GBP data over other sources when displaying local results.
How to implement
Claim and verify your GBP listing. Complete every section: business name (no keyword stuffing), accurate address, phone number, website, hours (including special hours), primary and secondary categories, attributes, and a detailed description. Add high-quality photos regularly. Publish Google Posts weekly. Actively manage reviews by responding to each one. Enable messaging and keep your Q&A section populated. Update your profile whenever business details change.
Common mistakes
- xAdding keywords to your business name that aren't part of your actual legal business name.
- xSetting incorrect business hours or not updating them for holidays.
- xNot selecting the most specific primary category available for your business type.
Examples
- -A completed GBP for a dental practice includes all services as categories, photos of the office, weekly posts about dental tips, and responses to every review.
- -A restaurant's GBP shows menu links, reservation buttons, popular dish photos, and real-time busy hours - all driving customer engagement.
FAQ
Yes. Creating, claiming, and managing a Google Business Profile is completely free. Google does not charge for GBP features, including posts, reviews management, messaging, and insights. Any messages or calls claiming you need to pay to maintain your GBP are scams.
They are the same product. Google rebranded Google My Business (GMB) to Google Business Profile (GBP) in November 2021. The functionality remains the same, and management has shifted from the standalone GMB dashboard to direct management within Google Search and Google Maps.
Related terms
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