Before You Start u2014 Keep These Things Ready

Think of this like filling out a form at your bank. You just need a few things in front of you before you begin. First, a Gmail account. If you use GPay or YouTube, you already have one. Second, your exact business address or the areas you serve u2014 for example, if you run a tiffin service in Pune's Kothrud area, know your delivery zones. Third, your mobile number, the one customers can actually call. Fourth, your business hours. That is genuinely it. No registration documents, no GST number, nothing complicated. A dhaba owner in Srinagar or a kirana shop in Kochi can set this up in the same time it takes to finish a cup of chai.

What Happens After You Submit u2014 The Verification Part

Google wants to make sure your business is real. Fair enough. For most Indian small businesses, verification happens by phone call or SMS to your registered number. Google calls you, gives you a 5-digit code, you enter it, done. Some businesses get a postcard by post to their address u2014 this takes 7 to 14 days and is more common for new addresses. A few categories can verify instantly through video call. Do not panic if it takes a day or two. Your profile is created the moment you submit it. Verification just unlocks full control, like editing your details and responding to reviews. In the meantime, your basic listing may already start appearing on Google Maps.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1
   Go to business.google.com and Sign InOpen your browser and type business.google.com. Click Manage Now. Sign in with your Gmail. If you use GPay or Paytm with a Google account, use that same login. No new account needed. Already feels familiar, right?
2. 2
   Type Your Business NameEnter your actual business name u2014 the one written on your shop board or visiting card. Like Sharma Ji Ki Dukaan or Meenakshi Tailors, Coimbatore. If Google shows your business already listed by someone else, click Claim This Business instead of creating a new one.
3. 3
   Choose Your Business CategoryThis is important. Type what you do u2014 Restaurant, Grocery Store, Mobile Phone Repair Shop, Coaching Centre. Google will suggest options. Pick the closest one. A dhaba works well under Restaurant. You can add more categories later from your dashboard settings.
4. 4
   Add Your Location or Service AreaHave a physical shop? Add your full address with landmark if possible. Customers in tier 2 cities like Nagpur or Jodhpur often search by landmark. Offer home services like plumbing or cake delivery? Choose Service Area instead and add your city or pin codes you cover.
5. 5
   Enter Your Phone Number and WebsiteAdd the mobile number customers should call or WhatsApp. No website? Leave it blank or add your Instagram page link u2014 Google accepts that too. Many small businesses in Kochi and Srinagar use their Instagram as their website. Completely fine.
6. 6
   Verify Your BusinessChoose phone or SMS verification for the fastest result. Google sends a 5-digit code. Enter it on screen. Profile verified. If you get the postcard option, request it and check your mail in two weeks. Do not create duplicate listings while waiting.

Frequently Asked Questions