Google My Business (GMB) has always been a crucial tool for local businesses looking to increase their online visibility. With its integration into Google Maps, GMB allows businesses to appear prominently in local search results, which can be a significant driver of new leads and customer engagement. However, Google frequently updates its guidelines and features, and one recent update has particular relevance for home-based businesses.
Can I List My Home Address on Google My Business Profile?
The latest update from Google My Business addresses a common concern for home-based business owners: whether or not to list a home address on their GMB profile. Google now explicitly discourages listing residential addresses on GMB profiles unless the business has a storefront or office where customers can visit during the listed hours. This change aims to protect the privacy of business owners and ensure accurate location data for users.
How Does This Affect Home-Based Businesses?
For many home-based businesses, such as freelancers, consultants, or service providers who operate from home but do not receive customers there, this update is especially relevant. Google encourages these businesses to hide their address and instead, use the “service area” feature. This allows businesses to define the geographical area where they provide services without displaying a specific home address.
The Benefits of Hiding Your Home Address
- Privacy Protection: Not listing a residential address helps maintain the privacy of business owners and prevents unwanted visitors at home.
- Customer Clarity: By defining a service area instead of a specific address, customers get a clearer understanding of where the business operates and whether it serves their location.
- Compliance and Accuracy: Google’s updated guidelines ensure that all businesses listed on GMB are accurately represented, which enhances the overall user experience on Google Maps and local search results.
Setting Up a Service Area on Google My Business
If you run a home-based business and decide not to display your address, we at Resknow can help you set up a home address that is covered in a service area.
This ensures that your business appears in relevant local searches, providing potential customers with information about the areas you serve without compromising your privacy.
Why Google Maps and GMB Matter for Local Businesses
Google Maps and Google My Business are indispensable tools for local SEO and customer engagement. For businesses, especially local and home-based, appearing in Google Maps can significantly enhance visibility and attract new clients. Local search results often prioritise businesses with accurate, up-to-date GMB profiles, making it crucial for owners to maintain their listings.
By optimising your GMB profile with the latest guidelines, you can improve your chances of appearing in local searches, build trust with potential customers, and ultimately grow your business. Remember, a well-maintained GMB profile with accurate service areas and business details is not just about being found—it’s about being found by the right customers.
If you have a home-based business, you can indeed list it on Google My Business. However, it’s recommended to use the service area feature to maintain your privacy while still ensuring your business appears in relevant local searches. This approach aligns with Google’s commitment to providing accurate, user-friendly search results and helps businesses connect with their local audience effectively.
If you need help setting up this process for your business, get in touch with us below!