How to Get Your Business Found on Google Maps

To get your business on Google Maps, you will need to claim and verify a Google Business Profile (GBP). You can get a Google Business Profile here.

If you’ve ever searched for a business near you — like a “pizza place near me” or “plumber in Massapequa” — you’ve used Google Maps marketing without even realizing it. Those results that pop up in the local map pack? That’s where your business needs to be if you want to attract real, local customers online.

For most small and mid-sized businesses, showing up on Google Maps isn’t just a nice bonus — it’s essential.

People rarely scroll past the first few map listings. Being there can mean the difference between a phone that’s ringing off the hook and one that’s collecting dust.

Showing up on Maps comes down to a mix of setup, optimization, and consistency, and it sits inside the bigger picture of local SEO & Google Maps services. This guide walks through how to do it yourself, step by step. If you would rather have it managed for you, that same work is what a done-for-you service covers.

Let’s talk about how to get your business found on Google Maps and what it really takes to stay there.

Step 1: Claim and Verify Your Google Business Profile

You need a Google Business Profile (formerly called Google My Business) in order to be found on Google Maps. If your business has been around for a while, you may already have a listing — search for your business name on Google to check. Click “Claim this business,” if you see it.

Alternatively, create a new profile at business.google.com. Before you start, it helps to understand why you should claim and optimize your Google Business Profile, since a complete, well-managed profile is what actually drives your rankings.

Once your profile is set up, you’ll need to verify ownership. Verification ensures that your business is real, active, and located where you say it is. Furthermore, it’s required to appear in Google Maps search results.

Step 2: The Google Business Verification Process

Google offers several verification options depending on your business type and location. Historically, verification was done by postcard, but now there are more methods available:

Common verification methods:

• Mail: Receive a postcard with a code to enter in your dashboard.
• Phone: Get a call or text with your verification code.
• Email: Receive a code to your official business email.
• Video call: Verify in real time with a Google support rep.
• Video verification: Upload a video of your business location, office, business supplies, and more.

However, as of 2024–2025, Google has preferred the stronger verification standard — video verification.

Step 3: The New Google Video Verification Requirement

If you’re creating a new Google Business Profile now, you’ll most likely be asked to verify your business through a short video submission. This method helps Google confirm that your business physically exists and operates where it says it does.

Here’s what to include in your video:

1. Show your business location: Record your storefront, signage, or office entrance. If you’re a service-area business, show your equipment, vehicle, or workspace.

2. Show proof of ownership: Include your tools, branded materials, or even yourself in the video. Google wants to see you’re legitimately operating the business.

3. Show customer service areas: If applicable, film the parts of your space where customers are helped or where services are performed.

How to Submit Your Verification Video

When Google requests video verification, you’ll see step-by-step instructions in your Google Business dashboard. Record a short clip (under two minutes) on your smartphone and upload it directly through the dashboard. Google typically reviews and approves videos within a few days.

Pro Tip: Keep it simple. This doesn’t need to be professionally edited — just clear, steady footage that proves your business exists. Natural light and an honest walkthrough are perfect.

Step 4: Fill Out Every Detail of Your Profile

A complete Google Business Profile ranks higher on Maps. Add your exact business name, physical address, local phone number, website, and accurate hours.

Additionally, include service areas if you travel to customers and upload your logo, cover photo, and real photos of your team or projects.

When writing your business description, avoid keyword stuffing. Be clear, natural, and conversational:

“Logic Web Media is a Long Island-based web design and marketing agency helping local businesses grow through smart website design, SEO, and organic marketing.”

Step 5: Keep Your Information Updated

Google rewards accuracy. Keep your information current, and make sure it matches your website, social profiles, and directories. Even small inconsistencies like “St.” vs. “Street” can hurt your local SEO.

Step 6: Encourage Customer Reviews

Reviews are a huge ranking factor. Ask your satisfied clients to leave feedback on your Google profile and always respond — even to negative ones. Engagement builds trust with both customers and Google.

Step 7: Post Regularly on Your Google Profile

Post updates, offers, photos, or company news right on your Google Business Profile. It keeps your listing active and helps attract clicks. Treat it like a mini social feed for searchers.

Step 8: Optimize Your Website for Local SEO

Your website supports your Maps ranking, and strong local SEO for Long Island businesses makes a real difference here. Make sure your name, address, and phone number appear consistently across all pages. Mention your location naturally in your content — for example:

“Logic Web Media provides professional web design and marketing services to businesses across Long Island, including Nassau and Suffolk Counties.”

Step 9: Add Local Schema Markup

Schema markup helps search engines understand your business better. Adding LocalBusiness schema to your website clarifies who you are and what you do — improving your visibility in the “Local 3-Pack.”

Step 10: Keep Building Your Online Reputation

Google considers how prominent your business is online. Keep posting, earning reviews, and getting mentioned on other websites. Each signal reinforces your credibility and improves your Maps ranking.

Step 11: Upload Photos and Videos Regularly

Keep your profile active by adding photos or short videos monthly. Google values fresh content, and visuals increase customer engagement. Authentic images outperform overly polished stock photos every time.

Step 12: Be Consistent and Patient

Improving your visibility on Google Maps takes time. Consistency with updates, reviews, and posts will gradually build your authority and get your business ranking higher in your local area.

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Putting It All Together

Getting found on Google Maps takes strategy, consistency, and a little patience. Claim and verify your profile, fill out every detail, gather reviews, keep everything updated, and support it all with a locally optimized website. Do that steadily and your business will climb in the local map results over time.

If you would rather focus on running your business, this is exactly what our local SEO & Google Maps services handle, from profile setup and video verification to ongoing optimization, review management, and local content. Either way, the goal is the same: show up where nearby customers are already looking.