Top Tips for Setting Up Your Business on Google

A Google Business Profile (GBP) is one of the most effective ways to increase your visibility, attract new clients, and improve your SEO. When people search for your name or services, a well-optimised profile helps them find you quickly, builds trust, and makes it easier for new clients to choose your business.

But while the benefits are clear, getting verified isn’t always as simple as it sounds. Many practitioners have found the process takes patience, and sometimes persistence. At UNTIL, members have shared both the hurdles they faced and the practical steps that helped them succeed.

Step 1: Claim & Verify Your Profile

Before you can optimise your profile, you’ll need to claim it and complete verification. This step is essential: it proves you’re the rightful owner and gives you full control over how your business appears online.

The challenge? Verification can sometimes be unpredictable. Some members have found that Google doesn’t always offer the same verification options, for example, one person may get the option to verify by invoice, while another is directed to video verification only. In some cases, members have needed multiple attempts before their profile was finally approved.

Member tip: One UNTIL practitioner shared that their profile was only accepted after three attempts, each time with a different method offered. Their advice? Don’t give up at the first hurdle, and be prepared to try alternative verification routes if Google doesn’t provide your preferred option.

If you run into issues, don’t panic. Google often accepts supporting documents such as an invoice or business registration, and if that fails, reaching out to their support team can usually resolve things.

Step 2: Navigating Video Verification

More and more practitioners are being asked to complete video verification. This involves recording a short video to show Google that your business exists at the location you’ve claimed.

Here’s what to cover in the video:

• Start outside your building, making sure to capture street signs.
• Show the entrance and your route inside.
• Demonstrate how you access your space (for example, using your key or staff access).
• Record your consultation or treatment room, ideally with your name or business name visible on the door. If you don’t have signage, a printed sign works too.
• Include branded equipment, marketing materials, or your payment method (for example, showing Stripe on your phone with your business name).

It doesn’t need to be polished, just clear, accurate, and complete. Most members who followed these steps had their verification confirmed within 24–48 hours.

Member tip: Another UNTIL member found that video verification worked best when they carefully planned the sequence before recording. Their recommendation was to “walk Google through your client journey”, from the street, to the front door, into the consultation space, making it as clear as possible that it’s your business.

Step 3: Optimise for Visibility

Once verified, make sure your profile is fully set up. The more complete it is, the more likely Google is to recommend you in relevant searches.

• Use your exact business name (avoid unnecessary keywords).
• Select the most accurate category for your services.
• Add your location, phone number, website, and opening hours.
• Upload high-quality photos of your space, logo, and, where appropriate, yourself.

A polished profile is the digital equivalent of a strong first impression.

Step 4: Harness the Power of Reviews

Google reviews are one of the biggest factors in how often your profile appears. For many UNTIL members, building a bank of positive reviews has directly improved their visibility, and often their client pipeline too.

The most effective way to get reviews is to ask. Many practitioners send a follow-up email with a direct link after a session, while others find it works best to make the request in person. Some also offer a small incentive, such as a free resource or guide.

Several members have seen rapid results, 30+ reviews can make a noticeable difference to your ranking.

Member tip: One practitioner made reviews a regular part of their client journey, asking every new client to leave feedback within the first month of working together. Over time, this built a strong and authentic review base that continues to boost their profile.

Final Thoughts

Setting up a Google Business Profile isn’t always straightforward, and the verification process can sometimes feel frustrating. But once you’re through it, the impact is significant: a stronger online presence, better visibility, and more clients discovering your services.

If you’re stuck, don’t be discouraged. Plenty of UNTIL members have been through the same process, and sharing experiences can be a great way to get unstuck.

Your profile is worth the effort, it’s a long-term asset that helps your clients find you, trust you, and choose you.