Google Business Profile

Maintain the profile as a current source of business information. Choose the primary category carefully, list services with descriptions, add real photos, and keep hours accurate. Use posts for timely updates when they are relevant.

The primary category strongly affects which local searches can show the profile. A business categorized as "Contractor" may appear for a broader, less specific set of searches than one categorized as "Roofing contractor." Secondary categories can describe additional services, but the primary category should match the main service the business provides.

If a business travels to customers and does not serve them at its address, Google requires it to hide the address and define service areas accurately. Listing additional cities does not guarantee visibility in them and may create policy risk when the business does not regularly serve those areas. Proximity to the searcher remains an important local ranking factor.

A suspension can remove the profile from Search and Maps while the business completes reinstatement. Common triggers include a keyword-stuffed business name, an ineligible virtual office, a residence presented as a staffed storefront, or repeated category changes. Follow Google's eligibility and representation guidelines before making profile changes.

AI assistants may use profile facts and review language when answering local recommendation questions. Outdated information can therefore affect more than Google Search and Maps. The profile optimization guide provides a checklist, suspended-profile recovery covers reinstatement, and the free profile audit reviews an existing listing.