Why isn't my business showing up on Google?
Usually it comes down to one of seven things, and most are fixable. Start with step one, because the answer tells you which problem you have.
First, find out what Google can see
Go to Google and search site:yourwebsite.com with your real address. If pages come up, Google knows your site and the problem is ranking. If nothing comes up, Google has not indexed it, and that is the first thing to fix.
Then search your exact business name and town. If your listing shows, you exist on Maps and need to climb. If it doesn't, start with your Google Business Profile.
Seven common reasons, and the fix for each
Work down the list. The first few are the most common for small local businesses.
1. No Google Business Profile
This is what puts you on Maps. Create one for free at business.google.com. No profile, no Maps listing.
2. Your profile isn't verified
An unverified profile may not appear in search. Finish Google's verification steps. Check the "Your business" panel while signed in to confirm.
3. Your categories are off
Your main category tells Google what you are. A plumber listed under a vague category misses plumbing searches. Pick the most exact match.
4. Your website is blocked or new
A setting called noindex tells Google to skip a page. A brand-new site also takes time to be found. Add it to Google Search Console and submit a sitemap.
5. Your name, address or phone don't match
If your details differ across your site, Google listing and directories, Google is less sure they are the same business. Make them identical everywhere.
6. You have few reviews
Google says prominence affects local ranking, and reviews are a part of it. Ask every happy customer, and reply to each review.
7. You are searching too far away
Local results depend on where the searcher is. You may rank well in your town and not show up 20 miles out. That is normal, and it is why your own search isn't the whole story.
How Google picks who shows on Maps
Google says local results come down to three things: relevance, distance and prominence. Relevance is how well your listing matches the search. Distance is how far you are from the person searching. Prominence is how well known you are, including your reviews and how much of the web mentions you.
You can't change distance. You can work on the other two, and that is where your website and profile earn their keep. More on that in our page on Google Maps SEO for trade companies.
How long it takes
A new profile or fixed setting can show up within days or weeks. Climbing the rankings is slower, usually a few months. Anyone promising the top spot by next week is guessing.
If you would rather not do this yourself, our SEO agency in Reading and Berks County handles it. It is included with every website: $250 a month, only if you keep it.
Frequently asked questions
Why can't customers find my business online?
The usual causes are no verified Google Business Profile, no website, a site Google can't index, or too few reviews. Search your business name and town first to see which one you have.
How do I get my business on Google for free?
Create and verify a Google Business Profile at business.google.com. It is free. Then add your services, hours, photos and website.
How long does it take to show up on Google?
Basic listings can appear within days or weeks once verified. Ranking higher usually takes a few months and depends on your competition.
Do I need a website to show up on Google?
Not for a Maps listing, but a website gives Google far more to work with. Read whether you need a website if you have a Facebook page.
Can you get me to the top of Google?
Nobody can honestly promise that. We can fix what is holding you back and keep working on it, and we will show you how it is going.
Want us to handle it? This week or next week?
Book a call and we will build a polished version of your new site ready before your call. You decide after you have seen it.
Book a Call with Vexion Labs