Published on 27 July 2026
This article was created with the support of artificial intelligence and reviewed editorially by us before publication.
This page was translated from German with AI support. The German version is the authoritative one.
When people search for a service “near me”, Google shows the map of local providers first. Whoever appears there wins customers — for free. The key is the Google Business Profile. Here is how to get the most out of it in the Niederrhein region and beyond.
What a Google Business Profile is
The profile is your free entry on Google and Google Maps. It shows the name, address, opening hours, phone number, photos, reviews and a link to your website — exactly what customers want to see before calling or visiting.
Why it is so effective
A well-kept profile often decides whether someone calls you or a competitor. It is the biggest free lever for local visibility — and it usually works faster than anything else.
The most important steps
- Create the profile and verify it by postcard or phone code (free at Google)
- Fill in category, opening hours and contact details completely and correctly
- Upload real, good photos — of the business, the team and your work
- Add your website and, if you have one, the booking link
- Collect reviews actively and reply to them politely
- Post short updates regularly (offers, news)
A common misconception: hashtags don't help here
Hashtags work on Instagram — not on your website and not on Google. What counts for Google search is a well-kept profile, genuine reviews and a good, fast website. So put your energy where it actually brings customers.
Setting the profile up takes only a few minutes and is completely free. If you are short on time, get help with it once — after that it largely runs by itself.
Would you like to put this into practice in your business?
In a free first call we look together at where your biggest potential lies — no obligation, in plain language.