How to get your business on Google Maps in Ghana

When someone in Accra searches "pharmacy near me" or "tailor in Osu", Google shows a map with three businesses at the top. Those three get most of the calls. Getting your business into that list starts with one free tool: a Google Business Profile.

What a Google Business Profile is

It is the box that appears on Google Maps and on the right of Google Search when someone looks up your business. It shows your name, location, phone number, opening hours, photos and reviews. It is free, and you control it.

Step 1: Check whether you already exist

Search your business name on Google Maps. Sometimes a customer or Google itself has already created a listing. If you see one, open it and choose Claim this business or Own this business?. If there is nothing, you will create one.

Step 2: Create or claim the profile

Go to Google Business Profile and sign in with a Google account you will keep long term. Use a business email if you have one, not a staff member's personal account.

Then add:

• Business name: exactly as customers know it. Do not add keywords to the name, as Google can suspend listings for that.
• Category: the most specific one that fits, for example "Dental clinic" rather than "Health".
• Location: your shop or office address. If you visit customers instead, such as a plumber or caterer, choose service area and hide your home address.
• Phone number and website.

Step 3: Verify that it is really you

Google needs proof that you run the business. Depending on your business, it may ask you to record a short video of your premises and signage, take a phone call or text, or use another method it offers. Follow the option it shows you. Until you are verified, your profile will not show properly.

Tip: make sure your business name is visible on a sign outside before you record a verification video.

Step 4: Fill in everything

Profiles with complete information show up more often. Add:

• Opening hours, including public holiday hours when they change
• Photos: the outside of your building so people recognise it, the inside, your team and your products
• Services or products, with prices if you can share them
• A short description of what you do and where
• Your WhatsApp number if customers prefer to chat

Step 5: Get reviews, and reply to them

Reviews are one of the biggest reasons a business shows up higher. After a good experience, send happy customers your review link and ask directly. Reply to every review, good or bad, politely and briefly. Never buy reviews or write them yourself, as Google removes them and may penalise your profile.

Step 6: Keep it alive

• Post updates every week or two: a new product, an offer, a holiday notice.
• Answer questions people ask on your profile.
• Keep details the same everywhere. Your name, phone and address should match exactly on your website, social media and any directories.

Why your website still matters

Your profile gets people's attention. Your website is where they decide. Google also checks that your website and your profile agree with each other. A fast site with your services, prices and location clearly stated helps your profile rank, and gives the customer a reason to choose you.

Every Cameleon Growth plan includes Google Business Profile setup and care. Want us to check how your business currently shows up? Start with a free site check.