← Back to blog · 2026-06-30 · 1 min read · ✍️ Written and edited by

Google My Business: The Complete Guide for Businesses in Israel

In short: Google My Business is a free tool by Google that allows businesses to manage their local presence on Search and Maps. It displays vital info like address, phone, and hours, directly impacting how customers find you. With 93% of consumers influenced by online reviews, a managed profile is essential for credibility.
Key takeaways
  • The Google profile is free and directly impacts appearance in Search and Maps.
  • After registration, you must verify the business and fill in all profile details.
  • Reviews and responses are among the strongest factors for choosing a business.
  • The profile works best when combined with a website and local SEO.
  • Performance data in the profile shows exactly how customers find you.

What is Google My Business and why is it important?

Google My Business is a free tool offered by Google that allows business owners to manage their local presence across Google, including Google Maps, Google Search, and review ratings. For businesses in Israel, this is an essential resource that directly affects how new customers find your business.

When a customer searches for local services or products, Google displays search results highlighting nearby businesses. Your Google Business Profile will appear in these results, containing vital information such as your address, phone number, opening hours, and customer reviews. This doesn't just affect visibility, but also the credibility of your business in the eyes of potential consumers.

Step 1: Creating the Registration and Identification

The first step is to register on the Google My Business site using an existing or new Google account. The registration process is simple and direct:

  1. Go to google.com/business and sign in to your Google account
  2. Choose "Create new account" or find your existing business
  3. Fill in basic information: business name, address, category, and phone number
  4. Select your business location on the map
  5. Verify ownership using one of the methods Google offers (mail, phone, or email)

Verifying ownership is very important. Google sends a verification code to your business address or the connected email. Entering this code allows you to fully manage your profile.

Step 2: Optimization of Your Profile

Once your account is verified, it's time to invest in preparing your profile. Your profile is the first window potential customers see, so it must be accurate, complete, and attractive.

Key information that must be complete

To achieve good search results, all these fields must be full and standard. Inconsistencies between search results and what appears on your profile can reduce your credibility.

Photos and Videos

High-quality photos are critical. Add photos of your shop, your products or services, and your work team. Short videos are also interesting and increase the engagement rate of potential customers. Clear photos that show your workplace in the best light create a positive first impression.

Step 3: Managing Reviews and Ratings

Customer reviews are one of the strongest factors influencing buying decisions. About 93% of consumers say that online reviews affect their purchase decisions.

Getting new reviews

You can encourage customers to write reviews by:

Responding to reviews

It is important to respond to every review, even negative ones. A professional and friendly response to negative reviews shows that you care about your customer experience. These positive responses also affect your expected ranking and the credibility of your profile in the eyes of others. For more tips, read our guide on how to respond to negative reviews online.

Step 4: Integration with Local SEO

Google My Business does not exist in a vacuum. To utilize its full potential, it must be integrated with a general local SEO content strategy.

Consistency: Check that your business address, number, and URL are identical on all platforms (website, Facebook, local business directories). Inconsistencies can reduce your visibility.

Local Content: Write content on your blog containing local keywords. For example, "cleaning services in Tel Aviv" or "car repair in Jerusalem" will help you appear in local search results.

Local Posts: Use the "Posts" feature of Google My Business to announce special updates, new discounts, or upcoming events. This interests both existing and potential customers.

Step 5: Advanced Features to Know

Google My Business offers several features that are often overlooked but can add significant value:

Direct Messaging

Enable the messaging feature to allow customers to send you messages directly through your profile. This increases your responsiveness and provides a better customer experience.

Business Attributes

Add attributes like "wheelchair accessible," "outdoor seating," or "accepts credit cards." These features help customers understand what your business offers at a glance.

Booking Appointments

If your business requires reservations, enable the booking feature. This is a simple way to reduce friction and manage your capacity more efficiently. You can learn more about how appointment scheduling software boosts your business on our blog.

Step 6: Using Data to Improve

Google My Business provides valuable insights through the "Insights" section. You can see:

This data helps in understanding your customer behavior and adjusting your strategy accordingly.

Local Keyword Strategy for Business Owners

Improving visibility on Google starts with understanding what your customer types into the search bar. In 2025, searches are becoming more specific (Long-tail keywords). Instead of trying to compete for the word 'lawyer', you should focus on 'family lawyer in Petah Tikva' or 'vegan menu at a restaurant in Jerusalem'.

Here is a comparison between types of keywords and their impact on your business:

Keyword TypeExampleCompetition LevelConversion Chance
GeneralHair salonVery HighLow
Field + CityHair salon in Ramat GanMediumMedium-High
Niche + CityOrganic hair straightening in HaifaLowVery High

Using InstaSite modules, such as the digital menu or specialized service pages, creates pages with content highly relevant to these specific searches, which increases your chance of appearing in the first result without manual effort. This is a key part of optimizing for Google visibility.

On-page elements that improve ranking

Beyond text, Google examines the user experience. A site that is not mobile-friendly or is difficult to navigate will cause customers to leave quickly (Bounce Rate), which will hurt your visibility over time. Ensure your site includes an accessible lead form on every page and clear contact details.

Long-term Investment: Why SEO is Your Best Digital Asset

Paid advertising (PPC) only works as long as you keep paying. Once the budget stops, the traffic stops. In contrast, building infrastructure on Google is an investment that bears fruit for years. As your site gains seniority, reviews, and quality content, its organic position improves, and you get customers for free.

Using the built-in AI blog in InstaSite, you can generate professional articles that attract a wide target audience and establish you as an expert in your field. The combination of smart technology and the right content strategy is the winning formula for small businesses in Israel that want to grow without burning huge marketing budgets.

In summary, the question of why it is important to open a business on Google has a simple answer: because that is where your customers are. With the tools at InstaSite, this task becomes easier, faster, and more affordable than ever. Don't wait for your competitors to take all the spots on the first page.

Want to launch your business on Google today? Contact InstaSite and set up your professional website in just 60 seconds. Start now for free or choose one of our advanced packages for maximum growth.

Summary

Google My Business, or Google Business Profile as it is now called, is an essential tool for any local business owner interested in increasing their visibility. Fully utilizing this platform requires patience and ongoing maintenance, but the investment pays off with increased visibility, improved ranking, and ultimately growth in new customer leads.

Ensure in your account that every detail matters: from a full description and quality photos to professional responses to reviews. Combining Google My Business with a general local SEO strategy creates a strong foundation for a successful online presence. Start today, and expect results in just a few weeks.

FAQ

Does Google My Business still exist?

Yes, under a new name: Google Business Profile. You manage it directly from Google Search or Google Maps, and it remains free.

How much does a Google Business Profile cost?

It is completely free. There is no charge for creating, verifying, or updating the profile. Payment is only required if you choose to run Google Ads.

How do I verify a business on Google?

Google offers verification methods based on business type, such as a postcard by mail, a phone call or text, email, or a short video of the location. The business appears fully only after verification.

What affects Google Maps ranking the most?

Three main factors: relevance to the search, distance from the searcher, and prominence, which includes review quantity/quality, a complete profile, and website presence.

How often should I update my profile?

Update hours and services as soon as they change, respond to every review, and post an update or new photo at least once a month to keep the profile active.

Is Google for my business really free?

Yes, the Google Business Profile service is completely free from Google. However, to maximize results, it is recommended to invest in a professional website (like those built with InstaSite) to convert traffic into sales.

How long does it take to see results from local SEO?

Initial results like appearing on maps can happen within days of verification. However, climbing to the top results (the Local Pack) requires consistent work and can take one to three months.

Do I need a website if I have a strong Google profile?

Absolutely. A Google profile is the window, but the website is the store. A website lets you control the narrative, offer booking systems, and collect leads in ways a Google profile cannot. A professional site also boosts your Google ranking.

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