Why GBP matters more than your website
70% of local searches never click past the Map Pack. If your GBP isn't claimed, you're losing the customer before they see your site.
Claiming: step by step
Go to business.google.com. Search for your business. If it exists, request ownership. If not, create it. Verify via postcard (7–14 days), phone, or email. Postcard is the most reliable.
Fields that actually move rankings
Primary category (be specific — not "Restaurant", but "Bakery"). Service area if you deliver. Opening hours including special hours. Services list with descriptions. Photos — at least 20.
Review velocity > review count
Google weights recency. 1 review per week beats 50 two-year-old reviews. Ask every satisfied customer, the day they visit. Respond to every review, positive or negative, within 48 hours.