Google Business Profile (GBP): Setup & Optimization Guide

Created by Maddie Baldwin, Modified on Thu, 30 Jan at 3:51 PM by Maddie Baldwin

Google Business Profile (GBP): Setup & Optimization Guide

Overview

A Google Business Profile (GBP) is a critical tool for businesses to manage their online presence across Google Search and Google Maps. GBP helps improve online credibility, local rankings, and customer engagement through reviews, photos, posts, and business details.

This guide covers how to create, verify, and optimize a GBP listing for success.

What is a Google Business Profile?

A GBP allows businesses to:
✔ Manage their visibility on Google Search & Maps.
✔ Showcase reviews, business photos, posts, and updates.
✔ Improve local SEO rankings and credibility.

Before You Start: Important Considerations

Before creating or managing a GBP, check:

Does the client already have a GBP? – Avoid duplicate listings.

Is the business using a legitimate address? – P.O. Boxes and UPS store addresses are not allowed.

Has the client verified their listing? – GBP requires client verification before we can manage it.

Does TSI have access? – We must have manager access to optimize their profile.

How to Create a Google Business Profile

Step 1: Ensure the Client Has a Google Account

The client must use a Gmail or Google Account to set up GBP.

Step 2: Sign Up on Google Business

Visit google.com/business and enter the client’s business name, website, and address.

Step 3: Verify the GBP

Google will prompt verification through:
- Text message
- Phone call
- Business video verification

Verification is the most challenging step for clients – guide them through the process to ensure completion.

GBP Statuses & What They Mean

GBP Status	What It Means	Action Required
Active & Verified	GBP is fully set up	TSI just needs access to optimize
Pending Verification	The client has started but not completed verification	The client must complete the process before TSI can manage it
Duplicate Listings	The client has two listings	We can help merge them after getting access to both accounts

How to Get Access to a Client’s GBP

To manage GBP, TSI must be added as a manager.

Step-by-Step Access Process

- Client logs into their GBP.
- Navigate to: Business Profile Settings → People and Access → Add Manager

- Client enters TSI’s account ID to grant access.

Once we have access, submit a GBP Optimization ticket for the SEO team to optimize the profile.

GBP Optimization: What Our Team Updates

After gaining access, the SEO team ensures GBP aligns with the client’s marketing campaign by updating:
✔ Business name
✔ Business category
✔ Business description
✔ Phone number
✔ Business hours
✔ Website link
✔ Social media profiles
✔ Business location & service area
✔ Images & logo
✔ Services & product listings

Ongoing GBP Management

After initial optimization, agents must submit proactive tickets for updates, including:
- New photos & logos provided by the client.
- Changes to business information (e.g., phone number, hours, location).

- Review management requests.

Top Features of GBP for Success

Google Business Profile offers powerful tools to enhance online visibility:

Google Posts – Share updates, promotions, and business news.
General Information – Keep business hours, location, and services accurate.
Insights & Analytics – Track performance and engagement.
Customer Reviews – Respond to reviews to build credibility.
Services & Products – Showcase offerings to attract customers.

Key Takeaways

✔ GBP is essential for online visibility & credibility.
✔ Client verification is required before TSI can manage the listing.
✔ TSI must be added as a manager for full optimization.
✔ SEO team updates key details to align with marketing efforts.
✔ Ongoing updates require proactive tickets from agents.