Google My Business Setup Guide for Sri Lankan Small Businesses

Google My Business (now called Google Business Profile) is one of the most powerful — and completely free — tools available to Sri Lankan small businesses. Here's how to set it up correctly and make the most of it.

What is Google Business Profile?

It's the listing that appears when someone searches for your business on Google or Google Maps. It shows your name, address, phone number, website, opening hours, photos, and customer reviews. When optimised correctly, it appears in the map pack at the top of local search results — prime real estate that drives real foot traffic and online enquiries.

How to Set Up Your Google Business Profile

1. Go to business.google.com

Sign in with a Google account (ideally a business one, not personal) and click "Manage now."

2. Search for Your Business

If a listing already exists (Google sometimes auto-generates them), claim it. If not, create a new one.

3. Enter Your Business Details

• Business name — Use your exact trading name. Don't stuff keywords in here (e.g. "Best Salon Colombo | Karen's Hair Studio") — Google can penalise this.
• Category — Choose the most specific primary category. You can add secondary categories later.
• Address — Enter your full address. If you operate from home and prefer not to show it, you can hide the address and show a service area instead.
• Phone number — Use your main business number. This must match your website.
• Website — Link to your website homepage.
• Opening hours — Set accurate hours and update them for public holidays.

4. Verify Your Listing

Google requires verification to prevent fake listings. Options include:

• Postcard — Google sends a code to your address (takes 5–14 days to Sri Lanka)
• Phone — Available for some businesses, instant
• Video — New option, you record a short video of your location

Optimising Your Profile for Maximum Visibility

Photos Make a Huge Difference

Listings with photos get 42% more requests for directions and 35% more website clicks. Upload:

• A clear logo
• A cover photo (your storefront or workspace)
• Interior and product photos
• Team photos if appropriate

Write a Strong Business Description

You get 750 characters. Use the first 250 words to mention your key services and your city — this is what shows before the "More" button. Be natural, not keyword-stuffed.

Post Weekly Updates

Google Posts (updates, offers, events) appear in your listing and show Google that your business is active. Even a simple "we're open this weekend" post every week helps your visibility.

Reply to Every Review

Responding to reviews — positive and negative — is a ranking signal. It also shows potential customers that you care. For negative reviews, stay professional and offer to resolve the issue offline.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Inconsistent business name between Google and your website
• Wrong or outdated phone number
• No photos uploaded
• Ignoring reviews
• Not updating holiday hours

Does Google Business Profile Replace a Website?

No. Your Google profile drives discovery — people find you on Maps. But your website is where they learn enough to trust you and take action (call, book, buy). You need both. A profile without a website loses customers who want more information. A website without a profile loses customers who are searching locally.

TanDigitals sets up and connects your Google Business Profile as part of every website package. Get in touch to learn more.