A Google Business Profile allows your tourism business to appear in Google Search and Google Maps, increasing your visibility and helping customers find accurate information about your services.
What is a Google Business Profile?
A Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is a free online listing that displays your business’ key information - such as address, contact details, website, photos, and reviews - on Google Search and Google Maps. An example is provided below.
Why is a Google Business Profile important?
Claiming and keeping your Google Business Profile up-to-date increases your visibility, builds trust with potential customers, and provides a direct way for travellers to engage with your business.
Increases your visibility on Google Search and Maps.
Builds credibility with reviews and up-to-date information.
Allows direct engagement with customers through calls, messages, and reviews.
Drives website traffic and direct bookings.
How to claim your Google Business Profile
1. Search your business on Google: Open Google.com or in Google Maps and type your business name and location in the search bar.
2. Locate your Google Business Profile: Look for your business profile on the right-hand side of the search results (desktop) or at the top (mobile).
IF your business does not appear, see: My business is not listed on Google.
3. Claim the Business: Click 'Claim this business', then 'Manage now'.
IF you do not see 'Claim this business', then your Business Profile is already claimed, and you will need to request access. See: If Your Business Profile Is Already Claimed for your next steps.
4. Verify your Business: Select a verification option and follow the on-screen steps to complete verification.
5. Update your ATDW Profile: Once you have claimed your Google Business Profile, don't forget to add your Google Business Profile link to your ATDW Profile. (See: Add your Google Business Profile link to your ATDW profile)
If your business is not listed on Google
If your business is not listed on Google, you will need to add your business. For ease, we recommend doing this on a PC, rather than a mobile device.
Google Maps: Go to Google Maps.
Business Address: Enter your business address in the search bar.
Add your Business: On the left, in the Business Profile, click 'Add your business' (shown below).
Complete Sign-Up: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the sign-up process for your Business Profile.
Update your ATDW Profile: Once you've set up your Google Business Profile, don't forget to add your Google Business Profile link to your ATDW Profile. (See: Add your Google Business Profile link to your ATDW profile)
If your Google Business Profile is already claimed
If your Google Business Profile has already been claimed, say by a previous owner, you will need to request access using the steps below.
Find the Business Profile you want to own: Go to business.google.com/add.
Type in the name and address of your business and select your business from the list.
Request Access: Select Request Access. You will see a message that says “Someone else may manage this Business Profile.”. You can request ownership from the current profile owner by filling out the form and clicking 'Submit'
Tip: When you send the request, the current Google Business Profile owner will receive an email asking them to contact you. You’ll also get an email confirmation.
If the current owner grants access, you will be notified. If your request is denied or not answered, follow the instructions in the confirmation email to appeal. In this instance, Google may require proof of business association (such as business licenses, utility bills, or other documents) to prove your ownership of the business.
3. Update your ATDW Profile: Once your ownership is confirmed, don't forget to add your Google Business Profile link to your ATDW Profile. (See: Add your Google Business Profile link to your ATDW profile)
Tips for Managing your Google Business Profile
Always use your official business email address when making claims or requests.
Keep supporting documents ready (such as business registration or utility bills) in case Google requests further verification.
For further details and troubleshooting, visit the official Google Business Profile Help Centre
PRO TIP: Want to save time? Integrating your Google Business Profile with your ATDW profile, so changes to your ATDW Profile is reflected on your Google Business Profile. See: How to Integrate Google Business Profile for a step-by-step guide on how to do this.
Verifying your Business for Google
Google provides several verification options to confirm your business ownership, and the available methods depend on factors such as your business category, public information, region, or business hours. You may be offered one or more of the following methods:
Phone or SMS: Receive a verification code via call or text to your business phone number and enter it in your profile.
Email: Receive a verification code at your business email address and enter it to complete verification.
Video recording: Record and upload a video showing your business location, signage, and proof of management.
Live video call: Join a real-time video call with a Google support representative to verify your business details.
Postcard by mail: Receive a postcard with a verification code at your business address and enter the code in your profile.
Note: The available verification methods depend on your business type, location, and other factors. You may be required to complete more than one method.
Add your Google Business Profile link to your ATDW profile
Search your business in Google Maps: Go to Google Maps and search for your business.
Share: In your Profile on the left, click 'Share'.
Copy Link: In the popup that appears, click 'Copy Link'.
Log In: Now it's time to add the link to your ATDW profile. Log in to ATDW
Profiles: In the main menu, select 'PROFILES'
Find Profile: Find the relevant profile and click the corresponding ‘UPDATE’ button.
Socials: In the sub-menu, select ‘Socials’.
Paste Link: Tick the Google Business Profile and paste your Google Business Profile link into the field.
Submit for Review: Once complete, check your Profile Summary and then submit your profile for review. This step is crucial to ensure that your profile is reviewed, approved, and published, making your updated information visible to potential customers.
Need help adding your Google Business Profile link?
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