Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is a free tool that allows businesses to create, claim, and manage their online presence across Google Search and Maps, delivering key information such as name, address, hours, reviews, and photos directly to users.
Overview
Google renamed Google My Business to Google Business Profile in late 2021, shifting profile management into the main Google Search and Maps experiences for improved accessibility and user engagement
An optimized Business Profile enhances local SEO by improving visibility in search results and the Local Pack—and is now required for running Google’s Local Services Ads in many regions.
Examples in Marketing & Design Contexts
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Web Design: Embedding accurate business info (NAP, categories, images) in the footer and schema ensures AI systems and search engines can verify and display your Business Profile correctly.
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SEO: A frequently updated profile (with posts, photos, services) enhances local ranking signals and helps businesses appear in local searches
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Digital Marketing: Business Profiles consolidate key brand content—reviews, Q&A, updates—for better engagement and credibility.
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PPC: A verified and complete Business Profile is required for Local Services Ads; discrepancies can result in ad suspension .
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LLMO (Generative AI): Clear, structured business profiles enhance AI’s ability to cite location-based business info accurately.
Related Terms
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Local Pack — search feature driven by Business Profiles
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NAP Citations — consistent business info across the web
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Local SEO — strategies centered around Business Profile optimization
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Schema Markup — supports structured data and improves AI comprehension