How the Fiboptima Basic Google Business Setup Process Works

The Fiboptima Basic – Starter Package is the perfect entry point for businesses that want to understand their current profile and take the first steps toward better visibility.

Our streamlined 6-step process gives you clarity, quick wins, and a solid foundation for future growth.

1. Information About Your Business

We start by gathering the key details about your company – who you are, what you do, and where you operate. This helps us tailor the analysis and recommendations to your unique business.

2. We Analyze Your Profile

Your account manager reviews your current Google Business Profile, checking for missing information, inaccuracies, or weak points. We benchmark your current state to see where improvements can be made.

3. We Prepare Clear Recommendations

Based on the analysis, we provide 3 practical recommendations to improve your profile. These are actionable steps you can take right away to increase your visibility.

4. We Deliver an SEO-Optimized Description

To immediately boost your profile’s strength, we write a professional SEO-optimized business description. This helps Google understand your business better and improves your ranking potential.

5. You Review the Results

You’ll receive a clear summary of the analysis, recommendations, and the new SEO description – giving you a complete overview of how your profile can grow.

6. You Gain a Strong Foundation for Growth

With the insights and optimized description, your business is set up for improved visibility and customer engagement. The Basic package is the first step toward building a profile that works for you 24/7.

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1. Create or Sign in to a Google Account

To manage or create a Google Business Profile (GBP), you need to have a Google Account — but it does not need to be a Gmail address.
If you already use Gmail or Google Workspace (for example info@yourcompany.com hosted through Google), simply sign in directly at
https://business.google.com
If your business email is hosted somewhere else (for example @outlook.com, @companydomain.com without Google Workspace), you’ll need to first convert it into a Google Account before creating your business profile.

Here’s how:

1. Go to https://accounts.google.com/signup/v2/webcreateaccount
2. Click on “Use my current email address instead.”
3. Enter your existing email address (e.g., info@company.com).
4. Follow the verification steps that Google sends to that inbox.

Once verified, your existing email becomes a fully functional Google Account — allowing you to manage your Google Business Profile, access analytics, respond to reviews, and use all GBP features.

Fiboptima Tip: Always connect your official business email (not a personal Gmail). It looks more professional to customers, simplifies future verification steps, and builds trust with Google Support during identity checks or ownership verification.

2. Access the Google Business Profile Manager

Once your Google Account is ready, go to the official Google Business Profile platform — this is where all profile creation and management begins.

Step-by-Step Instructions

2.1 Open the official page: https://business.google.com/ (You can also search “Google Business Profile Manager” directly in Google Search.)

2.2 Click “Manage now.” This will take you to the dashboard where you can later add, claim, or edit a business listing.

2.3 Sign in with the correct Google Account.

Make sure you’re using the email that should own the business profile — this account will have primary ownership and access rights to all features.

2.4 Once signed in, you’ll see the main dashboard (also called Business Manager home).

From here, you can: o Add a new business profile o Manage existing listings o View performance insights o Control users and permissions

!! Important:

• Always confirm you’re logged in with the main business account, not a personal one.

• Ownership transfers between accounts can take several days and may require re-verification.

• If you plan to work with an agency (like Fiboptima), you can later add them as a Manager — no need to give away ownership.

Fiboptima Tip: Bookmark https://business.google.com/ for direct access to your dashboard. Many businesses accidentally try to edit their profiles via Google Maps or Search results — but only the Profile Manager offers full control and analytics.

3. Search or Add Your Business

Now that you’re inside the Google Business Profile Manager, it’s time to locate your business — or add it if it doesn’t exist yet. This step ensures Google connects the right profile to the correct company and prevents duplicate listings.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In the dashboard, click “Add your business to Google.”
A search bar will appear at the top of the page.

2. Search for your business name.

o If your business already exists on Google Maps or in Search results, you’ll see it appear in the list.

o Click on the correct entry and select “Claim this business.”

o Follow the prompts to start the ownership verification process (you may be asked for proof later — see next step).

3. If your business isn’t listed, create a new one:

o Click “Add your business to Google.”

o Enter your official business name exactly as it appears on signage, legal documents, or your website.

o Select the primary business category that best describes your services (you can add secondary ones later).

4. Avoid duplicate entries.

Before creating a new listing, always double-check Google Maps and Search for your business name and address.

Duplicate profiles can confuse customers, lower your ranking, or trigger temporary suspension.

5. Once your business is added, you’ll proceed to location and contact information setup in the next step.

!! Important:

• If you’re claiming an existing business, Google may request proof of ownership, such as a phone verification, email confirmation, or a new video verification (a method introduced in 2024 and expanded in 2025).

• Make sure you have access to your business phone, website, and physical location if applicable.

Fiboptima Tip:
Always use your official registered business name and consistent address format.

Even minor spelling differences between your Google profile, website, and local directories can negatively impact your SEO consistency (also known as NAP consistency — Name, Address, Phone).

4. Add Your Business Location and Address Details

When setting up your Google Business Profile, accuracy in your business location is essential — it directly affects whether customers can find you in Google Search and Maps.

Here’s how to do it step by step:

4.1 Enter your official business address
Type your full, real-world address exactly as it appears on your website, invoices, or signage.

Example: Fiboptima, Kalajoentie 4, 85100 Kalajoki, Finland

Avoid P.O. boxes or virtual office addresses — Google requires a physical location that customers can visit or that represents your service area.

4.2 Select “I serve customers at my business address”
If customers visit your office, studio, or store in person, choose this option. This ensures your business pin appears on Google Maps, making it easy for people to get directions and visit you directly.

4.3 For Service Area Businesses (SAB)
If your company provides services at customers’ locations (e.g., cleaning, delivery, home repairs), select “I deliver goods and services to my customers.”
Then, hide your physical address and add specific service areas (cities or postal codes).

Example: Serving Kalajoki, Ylivieska, Raahe, and Oulu region

4.4 Ensure consistency across all platforms
Your business name, address, and phone number (NAP) must be identical everywhere — on your website, social media, and directories. Even small differences (like “Street” vs “St.”) can harm your ranking.

Fiboptima Tip:
If you move or expand your business, always update your address immediately in Google Business Profile and on your website. Inconsistent data can cause verification delays and lower local ranking.

5. Choose the Right Business Category

Selecting the right business category is one of the most important steps in setting up your Google Business Profile — it determines when and where your business appears in search results.

Here’s how to do it correctly:

5.1 Start with your primary category
Your primary category should represent your main activity — the service or product you’re best known for.

Example:
- Digital marketing agency
- Restaurant

This category tells Google what kind of customers to show your profile to.

5.2 Add secondary categories

If you offer multiple services, you can add up to nine additional categories to describe them.

Example: A tattoo studio might add piercing shop, art gallery, or custom design service.

These help your profile appear for related searches, expanding your visibility.

5.3 Be specific, not broad

Avoid generic categories like “store” or “service company.” Instead, choose the exact term that best matches what you do. Google’s system rewards precision and relevancy.

5.4 Check your competitors

Search for top-ranking businesses similar to yours on Google Maps. See which categories they use — this can guide you toward the most effective combination.

5.5. Keep categories up to date

As your business evolves, review and adjust categories regularly. Adding or removing one can significantly affect how often you appear in searches.

Fiboptima Tip:
Never add irrelevant categories just to attract more searches — Google’s algorithm can recognize mismatched categories and lower your ranking.

6. Add Contact Information and Communication Channels

Accurate and professional contact information builds trust and ensures that customers can reach you easily — both online and offline. It’s also one of Google’s strongest ranking signals for local businesses.

Here’s how to set it up properly:

6.1 Add your main business phone number

Use your official business phone, not a personal one. This keeps your communication consistent and professional.

o You can use a landline or mobile number.

o If you use call tracking (to monitor where calls come from), make sure the tracking number is verified and listed consistently everywhere else online.

6.2 Enter your website URL

Add your main business website or the specific page relevant to that location. o Example: https://www.yourcompany.com or https://www.yourcompany.com/location-name Google uses this link to evaluate your domain authority and rank your profile higher.

6.3 Add your email (optional but recommended)

While not mandatory, adding a professional business email (e.g., info@yourcompany.com) improves credibility and gives customers another way to contact you.

6.4 Enable Google Messaging (optional)

Turn on the Messaging feature so customers can send direct messages through your Google Business Profile.

o You’ll receive notifications in real time through the Google Maps app or email.

o Responding quickly increases your engagement score — something Google tracks.

6.5 Double-check NAP consistency

NAP = Name, Address, Phone number. These must be identical across your website, social media, and directories. Even small variations like “Street” vs. “St.” can confuse Google’s algorithm and lower your ranking.

Fiboptima Tip:
Always test your contact details after setup — call your listed number, click your website link, and send a test message. A single typo can cost you real leads.

7. Add Business Hours and Special Hours

Your business hours may seem like a small detail, but they have a major impact on visibility and customer trust.

Google uses this information to determine when to display your business — and customers rely on it to decide whether to visit or call.

Here’s how to set them up the right way:

7.1 Enter your regular business hours

Add the exact hours you’re open each day of the week.

o Be honest and accurate — false “open” hours can lead to bad reviews or lost trust.

o If your hours vary by day (e.g., shorter on weekends), reflect that accurately.

7.2 Add special hours for holidays or events

Google allows you to set special hours for public holidays, events, or temporary schedule changes. o Example: You can mark Christmas Eve, local holidays, or renovation days. o This ensures your profile remains accurate even when your schedule changes.

7.3 Avoid leaving the field blank

An empty “Hours” field can make your business look incomplete or unverified. Google might show your competitors instead, simply because their profiles are more detailed.

7.4 Update immediately when changes occur

If your working hours change seasonally or permanently, update them right away in your dashboard. Google may temporarily reduce visibility if outdated information is reported by users.

7.5 Monitor “Open Now” status

Google displays “Open now” in search results based on your listed hours — this status strongly influences clicks and calls, especially from mobile users searching nearby.

Fiboptima Tip:
If your business operates 24/7 or by appointment, specify it clearly. Use “Open 24 hours” or “By appointment only” to ensure Google and customers understand your availability.

8. Add Your Services and Products

Adding your services and products is one of the most effective ways to improve your Google Business Profile’s visibility.

This section helps Google understand exactly what you offer — and helps potential customers see your value before they even visit your website.

Here’s how to do it properly:

8.1 Add all your core services

Go to the Services tab in your dashboard and list each service your business provides.

Example: A tattoo studio could list custom tattoos, piercings, and tattoo consultations.

A restaurant might include dine-in, takeaway, or delivery.

Each service should have a short, clear name that reflects what people search for.

8.2 Include short, keyword-rich descriptions

Write 1–2 sentences per service.

Mention what makes your service unique and naturally include SEO keywords customers might use.

Example: “Professional tattoo designs customized for every client using certified inks and sterile equipment.”

8.3 Set prices (optional but recommended)

You can include fixed prices or mark them as “From…” to give users an estimate. Transparency increases conversions and reduces unnecessary calls.

8.4 Add product listings (if applicable)

In the Products tab, add your main items or even services presented as products.

Include a product title, short description, and an image.

Example: “Bepanthene Tattoo Aftercare Cream” or “Gift Card – Custom Tattoo Design.”

Products with images perform significantly better in local search.

8.5 Organize your services and products by category

Keep your listings clear and structured. Group similar services together so users can easily browse.

8.6 Keep everything updated Outdated prices or discontinued services can lower trust and result in negative feedback. Regular updates show Google your business is active — boosting rankings.

Fiboptima Tip:
Think of this section as your in-profile brochure. The more informative, visually appealing, and keyword-focused it is, the more likely you are to convert views into customers.

9. Add Photos and Videos

High-quality photos and videos are essential for building trust and improving your ranking on Google. Businesses with engaging visuals receive more clicks, calls, and direction requests — and Google openly rewards active profiles with frequent photo updates.

Here’s how to make your visual content work for you:

9.1 Upload professional, relevant images

Focus on photos that represent your business accurately.

Include:

o Exterior shots (so customers recognize your location)

o Interior photos (showing cleanliness, atmosphere, or equipment)

o Team photos (humanize your brand)

o Product or service photos (tattoos, dishes, vehicles, etc.)

9.2 Follow Google’s recommended formats

o Format: JPG or PNG o Minimum size: 250×250 px

o Recommended size: 720×720 px

o Maximum file size: 5 MB

Always use clear, well-lit images — blurry or low-quality visuals reduce engagement.

9.3 Add short videos for authenticity

A 15–30 second video can outperform static images.

o Record your workspace, customer experience, or products in action.

o Keep it natural and professional — no heavy editing needed. Google allows videos up to 30 seconds and 75 MB in size.

9.4 Use geotagged images (optional, but powerful)

Add location data to your images before uploading. This helps Google connect your visuals to your verified address and increases local search relevance.

9.5 Name your files strategically

Before uploading, rename files with descriptive keywords instead of “IMG_001.jpg.” Example: “tattoo-studio-kalajoki-interior.jpg” or “restaurant-lunch-menu.jpg.”

9.6 Stay consistent and update frequently

Google favors profiles with new visuals. Try uploading at least 3–5 new photos each month to maintain freshness and activity signals.

Fiboptima Tip:
Think of your photos and videos as your storefront window on Google. The better it looks, the more people stop, click, and walk through your (digital) door.

10. Verify Your Google Business Profile

Verification is the final and most crucial step in making your Google Business Profile visible to the public. Without it, your business won’t appear in Google Search or on Maps — no matter how complete or optimized it is.

Here’s how to complete verification the right way:

10.1 Why verification matters

Verification confirms to Google that your business is legitimate and that you’re authorized to manage it. It helps prevent impersonation and ensures that your information — address, phone, and name — stays accurate and secure.

10.2 Choose your verification method

Depending on your business type and location, Google will offer one or more of these methods:

o Video verification (most common in 2025): You’ll be asked to record or join a short video call showing your business signage, interior, and proof of access (keys, workspace, etc.).

o Email verification: If available, you’ll receive a verification link directly to your business email domain (e.g., info@company.com).

o Phone verification: Google may call or text a code to your registered number.

o Postcard verification: A physical card with a 6-digit code sent to your business address — this process usually takes 5–12 days.

10.3 Complete the verification process

o For video verification, log in to your Google Business dashboard and follow the on-screen prompts. Ensure your camera and microphone are enabled, and record clearly.

o For postcard verification, log in after receiving the code, select “Verify now,” and enter the number.

10.4 Common verification issues

o Using a personal address or shared workspace can delay approval.

o Inconsistent information (different address formats across the web) may trigger a review.

o Repeated failed attempts can temporarily lock verification options.

10.5 After verification

Once approved, your business profile will go live across Google Search and Maps within 24–48 hours. You’ll be able to access insights, add posts, reply to reviews, and update all your information freely.

Fiboptima Tip: Always keep your verification details (address, phone, and ownership email) consistent across all online directories. Consistency strengthens your local SEO and helps Google trust your business faster.

11. Maintain and Optimize Your Profile Regularly

Creating and verifying your Google Business Profile is only the beginning — staying active is what keeps you visible and competitive.

Google’s algorithm now prioritizes activity and consistency over static information. The more often you update, the more trust you earn — both from Google and your customers.

Here’s how to maintain your profile effectively:

11.1 Post Regular Updates

Add weekly posts to share news, promotions, events, or insights. Posts keep your profile relevant and show customers that your business is active.

o Ideal posting frequency: 1–2 times per week.

o Types of posts: What’s New, Offers, Events, Products/Services.

11.2 Respond to Reviews Promptly

o Always reply to both positive and negative feedback.

o Thank happy customers for their support and address any issues professionally.

o Response time matters — Google considers active engagement a ranking factor.

11.3 Add New Photos and Videos

Frequently Google rewards profiles with regular visual updates.

o Upload 3–5 new photos or short videos per month.

o Keep visuals authentic — real people, real work, real location.

11.4 Update Key Information

o Keep your hours, phone number, and website up to date.

o Update your holiday hours and temporary closures — Google tracks accuracy.

o If you move or rebrand, update your profile immediately to avoid suspension.

11.5 Add Events, Products, and Services

o New services or promotions should always appear on your profile first.

o Adding events can boost engagement and attract local visitors.

o Products and services should always have clear descriptions and pricing.

11.6 Track and Analyze Insights

Access the Performance tab in your Google Business dashboard to view:

o How customers found your business (search or maps).

o What actions they took (calls, website visits, direction requests).

o Which photos and posts perform best. Use these insights to adjust your content strategy for maximum visibility.

Fiboptima Tip:
Your Google Business Profile is like your shop window — it needs cleaning, updating, and refreshing to attract new visitors. Businesses that post regularly, respond to reviews, and keep information current often see up to 70% more engagement within the first 90 days.