Google Business Profile for Tradespeople: The Complete Setup Guide
Your Google Business Profile is the most powerful free marketing tool available to UK tradespeople. When set up correctly, it puts your business in front of homeowners actively searching for your trade in your area — right now, today. Here is exactly how to do it.
Step 1: Claim and verify your Google Business Profile
Go to business.google.com and search for your business. If it exists, claim it. If not, create a new listing. You will need to verify ownership — Google typically sends a postcard to your business address with a verification code, though phone and email verification is sometimes offered.
Step 2: Complete every section of your profile
Incomplete profiles rank lower. Fill in every available field.
- Business name (exactly as it appears on your van and invoices)
- Primary category (e.g. "Plumber", "Electrician", "Roofing Contractor")
- Additional categories for every service you offer
- Full service area with all towns and postcodes you cover
- Phone number, website URL, and WhatsApp link
- Opening hours including emergency/weekend availability
- Full business description with keywords (750 characters)
Step 3: Add photos that build trust
Listings with photos receive 42% more requests for directions and 35% more clicks to websites. Add photos of your completed work, your van, your team, and any certifications.
- Minimum 10 photos to start
- Add new photos monthly — Google rewards fresh content
- Before and after shots work extremely well for trades
- Photos should be real — not stock images
Step 4: Get reviews consistently
Reviews are the single biggest ranking factor for Google Maps results. Send every happy customer a direct review link via text message on the day you finish the job. A consistent flow of recent reviews beats a one-off bulk of old ones.
Step 5: Post weekly updates
Google Business Profile posts work like a mini social feed attached to your listing. Post weekly with photos of recent jobs, promotions, seasonal offers, or helpful tips. This signals to Google that your business is active — which improves your ranking.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a physical address to use Google Business Profile as a tradesperson?
No. You can use a service-area business listing and hide your home address. Just add all the towns and postcodes you serve instead.
How do I get customers to leave Google reviews?
The most effective method is a direct text message on the day you finish the job with a link directly to your Google review page. Automated tools get 3–5x more responses.
How often should I update my Google Business Profile?
Post at least once a week. Add new photos monthly. Respond to all reviews within 24 hours.
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