If your website is your digital storefront, your Google Business Profile (GBP) is the bright, blinking sign that helps people actually find it. A claimed, accurate GBP makes it easier for customers to discover you, trust you, and take action—all before they ever hit your homepage.

Here’s a simple, no-drama walkthrough to find and claim your GBP.

Step 1: See if a profile exists

• Open Google or Google Maps and search your exact business name plus city (and address if you’re in a crowded market).

• Click your business in the results. On the profile, look for links like “Own this business?” or “Claim this business.” That’s your clue that GBP is not tied to your account yet.

If you don’t see your business at all, no worries. You’ll create a fresh profile in the next step.

Step 2: Claim or create your GBP

• Go to business.google.com and select “Manage now.”

• Type your business name and choose the best-fitting category (e.g., accounting firm, coffee shop).

• If Google shows an existing listing that’s yours, select it and choose “Claim this business” or “Request access.” If not, continue adding your address or service area, phone, website, and hours.

Step 3: Verify and finish

• Choose a verification method (postcard, phone, email, video, or Search Console, depending on what Google offers).

• Enter the code or complete the short verification steps. Then round things out: Upload a few on-brand photos, write a clear description, and double-check that every detail is accurate.

Once you’ve claimed and verified your GBP, you’re ready for the fun part—optimizing it so more of the right people can find and choose your business.

Get more details on using your GBP to stand out in the article Uplevel your online presence with Google Business Profile, available in the current edition of THRIVE.