Google Business Profile is a central part of local search. It can show a business in Google Search and Maps with services, hours, photos, contact details, and reviews.
Google says local results mainly depend on relevance, distance, and prominence. Businesses cannot pay Google for a better local ranking.
Complete the facts customers need
Check these fields against the business's approved records:
- business name;
- primary and secondary categories;
- phone number and website;
- public address or service area;
- opening hours and holiday hours;
- services and descriptions;
- appointment or enquiry links;
- photos that show the real business with permission.
Use the real-world business name. Adding keywords to the name field can create policy problems when those words are not part of the trading name.
Match the website
The website should confirm the same services, areas, hours, and contact routes. Link the profile to the most useful page. A specialist service may deserve its own page when it needs a separate explanation.
Keep the page easy to use on a phone. Many local customers want to call, check directions, compare a service, or send a short enquiry.
Handle reviews honestly
Ask real customers for feedback without controlling what they say. Monitor new reviews and reply in a calm, factual way. Protect personal information and avoid discussing a customer's case in public.
New Zealand's Commerce Commission says online reviews must be genuine and should give customers an accurate overall picture. Do not create reviews, pay for undisclosed praise, or suppress negative feedback in a misleading way.
Watch changes and access
Record who owns the profile and which accounts have access. Remove access that is no longer required. Check for unexpected edits, duplicate profiles, wrong links, and outdated hours.
A simple monthly record can list:
- profile changes;
- new photos or service details;
- reviews received and replies posted;
- website pages linked;
- search and interaction data available;
- problems that need the owner.
How it fits with SEO and GEO
The profile supports local discovery. The website gives enough room to answer detailed questions and show evidence. Consistent information across both sources helps conventional and AI-assisted search interpret the business.
BestAI's NZ$99 Growth plan includes Google Business Profile management alongside website maintenance and weekly SEO/GEO work. Compare it with the narrower NZ$49 option on the SEO & GEO service page.
Profile changes and replies remain subject to Google policy and client approval. Local ranking and customer actions are not guaranteed.