Presence & Authority · AEO
Google Business Profile checklist for service businesses
What service operators must complete on Google Business Profile so they show in the map pack — categories, services, photos, posts, Q&A, and insights.
When a homeowner searches “plumber near me” or “AC repair near me,” Google often shows ads, then the map pack, then organic results. Your profile feeds the map pack. Half-filled profiles with old photos look inactive. Complete profiles with real job photos, specific categories, and fresh posts look alive.
Priorities that move ranking and trust: exact primary category for your trade, secondary categories for every real service, a description that names services and cities without spam, a filled services section, product-style service cards with photos, 50+ real photos, posts at least three times per week, and 10–15 owner-answered Q&A entries.
PM Media’s Presence & Authority Desk stages this work inside REV DE$K™ — drafts for your Approve queue, never spray-and-pray. We dogfood the same discipline on pmmedia-source.com.
- Primary category = the specific trade (not a vague “contractor” if you can be precise)
- Services listed specifically — drain cleaning, not just “plumbing”
- Insights checked monthly: views, calls, directions, search queries
Does a Google Business Profile replace a website?
No. The profile wins map pack attention. Your website wins organic results and deep trust. You want both for the same search when possible.
How often should we post on the profile?
At least three times per week with real job photos, seasonal tips, or offers. Activity signals beat dormant profiles.
Can PM Media run this for us?
Yes — for entitled REV DE$K partners. Drafts stage in Approval Queue; you approve before anything goes live.
What about name changes or DBA tricks?
Name and address changes can trigger suspension. Prepare exact documentation and proceed carefully. We advise on fit calls — we do not encourage risky shortcuts.