How to get your business on Google Maps and Yelp

In 2026, showing up on Google Maps and Yelp is not optional — it is essential. These platforms help customers find you, size you up, and choose you over the competitor down the street.

When someone searches for a local service, the map results appear before everything else. Businesses listed there — with reviews and photos — get the clicks and calls. If you are not on the map, you are invisible to a huge share of ready-to-buy customers.

Getting on Google Maps

1. Go to Google Business Profile and create or claim your listing.
2. Verify your business (usually by postcard, phone, or email).
3. Fill in every detail — hours, services, service area, website, phone.
4. Add real photos of your work, your team, and your location.
5. Choose the most accurate business categories.

Getting on Yelp

1. Create a free Yelp business account.
2. Claim your business page if one already exists.
3. Complete your profile with photos, hours, and a clear description.
4. Respond professionally to every review, positive or negative.

Optimizing both for more customers

• Keep your name, address, and phone identical across every platform.
• Collect reviews steadily — ask after every satisfied job.
• Post updates and fresh photos to stay active.
• Reply to reviews to show you are engaged and responsive.

Why this beats almost any paid ad

A strong Maps and Yelp presence brings in customers who are actively searching for you, for free, month after month. Few marketing investments deliver that kind of ongoing return.