If you run a business in Pakistan whether it’s a tea stall in Karachi or a boutique in Lahore your customers are probably searching for you on Google. Local SEO isn’t just a trend anymore. It’s how people find nearby businesses.
Google says that 78% of people who search on their phones for local things end up buying nearby. That means when someone types “best naan shop near me,” they usually end up buying from one of the top results.
And that’s where Google My Business helps. It shows your business in those local searches, helps you appear on Google Maps, and builds trust through reviews and updated information.
The best part? It’s free. If you want to get the most out of it, consider getting some Professional SEO Help to optimize your listing and boost your visibility.
What is Google My Business?
Google My Business is a free tool from Google that lets you create a business profile for search and maps. Think of it as your digital shop board and if you need guidance, check out this expert advice on Google My Business to set it up the right way.
When someone searches your business name or something similar (like “men’s salon DHA Lahore”), your GMB listing shows up with all the key details:
- Business name
- Address and map location
- Phone number
- Website link
- Photos
- Reviews
- Opening hours
It works for all types of businesses shops, service providers, clinics, home chefs, freelancers, and more. Even if you don’t have a proper shop, you can list yourself as a service based business.
How GMB Helps Your Business Show Up Locally
Helps You Appear in Local Searches
Almost 46% of all Google searches are local, according to HubSpot. That’s huge. When someone types “tailor near me,” Google often shows a “Local 3-Pack” three business listings with a map.
If your Google My Business profile is properly set up, your business could appear in that top 3. That means more people will see you and contact you.
Builds Trust with Reviews and Ratings
In Pakistan, people trust word of mouth. Online reviews are the digital version of that. 90% of people read online reviews before visiting a business (BrightLocal).
If someone sees your GMB profile with lots of good reviews and happy photos from customers, they’re more likely to call or visit you.
Helps You Get Found on Google Maps
Being found on Google Maps is a big advantage. Let’s say you run a small chai shop in Nazimabad, Karachi. If a nearby university student searches “chai near me,” your shop can appear on the map with directions, thanks to GMB.
Brings More Calls and Website Visits
Your Google My Business listing shows buttons for calling, getting directions, or visiting your website. These options make it easy for people to contact you.
Makes Your Business Look Real and Active
Even without a website, a good GMB profile makes you look trustworthy. People can see your photos, read about you, and check your hours.
How to Create a Google My Business Profile
Create or Claim Your Business
- Go to google.com/business
- Click “Manage Now”
- Enter your business name
- Choose your category (like “Bakery,” “Tailor,” etc.)
- Add your address or choose “I deliver goods/services to customers”
Verify Your Location
Google usually sends a postcard with a code to your address. Sometimes they offer phone or email options.
Add Business Details
- Add your working hours
- Include your phone number and website (if any)
- Write a short business description
- Upload photos of your shop, staff, products, or services
Write a Description with Common Search Words
Use simple words your customers might type into Google. For example:
“Lahore based bakery offering custom cakes, fresh pastries, and delivery across DHA and Gulberg.”
How to Make Your GMB Profile Work Better
Choose the Right Business Categories
Pick your main category carefully. It affects how you show up. You can also add extra categories for more reach on Google My Business.
Post Regular Updates (Offers, Events, News)
Google My Business lets you post updates, like:
- “20% off on bridal makeup this Eid!”
- “Now serving Karak Chai with Bun Kabab!”
These updates keep your profile active and interesting.
Get and Reply to Reviews
Happy customers? Ask them to leave a review. Always reply whether the review is good or bad. It shows you care about your Google My Business presence.
Add Real Photos
Businesses with photos get 42% more direction requests and 35% more website clicks (Source: Google).
Share photos of:
- Your shop
- Products or services
- Staff
- Customers (if they agree)
Turn On Messaging and Q&A
Customers can message you directly from your Google My Business listing. You can also answer common questions.
Use Google My Business to Highlight Special Services
You can also use your listing to mention:
- Delivery options
- Appointment only visits
- Family friendly or wheelchair accessible features
These small details help attract the right customers.
Common Google My Business Mistakes to Avoid
Using Fake Names or Info
Always use your real business name. Don’t use fake addresses. Google may block your Google My Business profile.
Not Verifying Your Listing
Your Google My Business listing won’t go live until it’s verified. Make sure you complete this step.
Ignoring Reviews or Posting Fake Ones
People can usually tell if a review is fake. And ignoring bad ones doesn’t help. Reply with kindness and offer help on Google My Business.
Incomplete Profiles
If your Google My Business listing has no hours, no photos, or no details, fewer people will trust it. Complete everything you can.
Google My Business for Different Industries
Restaurants and Cafes
These businesses benefit the most. Hungry customers often search “biryani near me” or “best restauran in Islamabad.”
- Add your menu
- Show ambiance photos
- Post lunchtime deals
Clinics and Salons
Add your services, timings, and doctor/stylist photos.
- Use reviews to build credibility
- Add “book appointment” button
Home Based Sellers
From home bakers to tailors, Google My Business gives you an identity. You don’t need a shop to be found.
- Share photos of your products
- Mention delivery or pickup
Real Estate Agents and Consultants
Let clients contact you directly, check reviews, or find your office.
- Add WhatsApp or phone
- Post market updates
Educational Services
Tuition centers, academies, and trainers can also benefit.
- Add course info
- Mention results
- Share student reviews
Google My Business vs. Social Media Ads
Different Tools for Different Goals
- Facebook is for social interaction. Google My Business is for search.
- Instagram builds your brand. Google My Business brings walk in customers.
Both are useful, but Google My Business helps people who are ready to visit or call.
Real Examples from Pakistan
Boutique in Islamabad
A small shop in F-7 started posting every week, added customer photos, and selected the right category. In 3 months, it began appearing in the top 3 local results through Google My Business.
Dhaba in Karachi with 1,000+ Reviews
A roadside chai spot in Saddar asked customers to leave reviews on Google My Business. Now it’s popular among vloggers and students.
Beauty Salon in Lahore Promoting Eid Deals
By posting Eid offers using Google My Business, the salon saw a 30% rise in bookings compared to last year.
Tutor in Rawalpindi Attracting More Students
A home tutor listed on Google My Business, added their location and subjects taught. They began getting 2-3 inquiries daily.
Cake Seller in Hyderabad Using Photos for Growth
A home baker used Google My Business to share cake designs and customer reviews. Orders doubled during Ramadan.
Why Google My Business is Great for Mobile Users
Over 60% of internet use in Pakistan is on mobile phones. Google My Business is mobile friendly. People can call, message, or find directions with one tap.
Google My Business for Service Providers
You don’t need a shop. If you’re a:
- Tutor
- Electrician
- Makeup artist
- AC repair person
you can still list your area (like Clifton or Gulshan-e-Iqbal) and show up in local searches using Google My Business.
How to Track Google My Business Performance
What Google My Business Insights Show You
- How many people viewed your profile
- Who clicked call or directions
- What search words brought them to you
Use This Info to Improve
If “cheap burgers in Lahore” brings people to you, use that phrase in your GMB profile and post more burger photos.
Google My Business also shows how customers find you:
- Through direct search (business name)
- Discovery (related category)
- Branded search (similar businesses)
Use this data to refine your listing over time.
Is Google My Business Safe to Use in Pakistan?
Yes. Many businesses across Pakistan use it. Google is also improving map accuracy in the region.
Make sure you or someone you trust handles your GMB listing so no one misuses it.
Conclusion
Definitely. It’s free, simple, and effective. If you’re not using Google My Business, you’re missing out on customers who are already searching for your service.
Whether you’re a small store or a big restaurant, GMB is one of the best tools to grow in 2025. It works quietly in the background to bring customers straight to your door.
FAQs
Can I use Google My Business in small towns or villages?
Yes, as long as Google Maps can find your location, you can create a listing.
Do I need a website for Google My Business?
No, but adding one helps build trust.
How many reviews help me rank higher on GMB?
There’s no exact number. But more honest reviews with helpful words improve your chances.
Can I run ads using Google My Business?
Yes. GMB connects with Google Ads for local search ads.
Can I handle more than one business from one GMB account?
Yes. Google lets you manage many listings with the same account.
