Free Visibility on Google Maps
Google Maps is the most used navigation and business discovery app in Kenya. When someone searches "hair salon Kilimani" or "garage Mombasa Road", Google Maps shows businesses with Google Business Profiles. It's completely free — and yet most Kenyan small businesses haven't claimed their listing.
How to Create Your Google Business Profile
- Go to business.google.com
- Sign in with your Google account
- Search for your business name — claim it if it already exists, or create a new listing
- Enter your business name, category, address, and phone number
- Choose whether customers visit your location or you go to them
- Verify your business (usually by postcard or phone call to your Kenyan number)
- Add your website URL, opening hours, photos, and services
How to Optimise Your Google Business Profile
- Add high-quality photos (exterior, interior, products/services, team)
- Write a keyword-rich business description
- Add all your service areas within Kenya
- Set accurate opening hours (including public holidays)
- Respond to every customer review — positive and negative
- Post weekly updates (like Facebook posts, but on Google)
Website + Google Business = Maximum Local Visibility
A Google Business Profile without a website loses credibility. Add your Hostiko website URL to your profile for the complete local SEO package.