Part of our complete guide: How to rank on Google Maps: the complete guide.
A post is a short update that shows on your profile in Search and Maps. It tells customers what is new at your business this week: an offer, an event, a new service or a seasonal item. Posts do not replace reviews or photos, but they show that your profile is active.
Step by step
Sign in and open your profile
Use the Google account that manages your profile. Search for your business name while signed in, or open it in Google Maps.
Choose Add update
On your profile, choose Add update. You will see the post types: Update, Offer and Event. Pick the one that fits.
Add a photo or video
A real, clear photo works best. Use a picture of your actual place, product or team.
Write the text
Posts can be up to 1,500 characters, but short is better. Put the news in the first line, say what to do next, and keep it plain.
Add a button if you need one
Offers and updates can carry a button such as Book, Order online, Learn more, Sign up or Call now. Pick one that matches what you want the customer to do.
Add dates for Offers and Events
Offers and Events need start and end dates, and an Offer can carry a coupon code or terms. They stop showing when the end date passes.
Preview and publish
Check the post as a customer would see it, then tap Publish. Open your profile afterwards to confirm that it appears.
What our team at MapBoost does instead
We publish a Google post on your profile every week, written in your voice and with a real photo.
You do not need to think of something to say. Your profile keeps showing fresh news.
India: ₹2,499* per location per monthEurope: €49 per location per month (or €39 billed yearly) + VAT where applicableRest of the world: $49 per location per month (or $39 billed yearly)
*Plus GST (India)
The three post types
- Update: general news, such as a new menu, a new batch, new timings or a team announcement.
- Offer: a deal with a start and end date, such as a festival discount.
- Event: something that happens at a set time, such as a tournament, workshop or opening.
What to post about each week
- A new product, dish, service or batch.
- A seasonal or festival offer, with clear dates.
- A photo from this week, with one line about it.
- A short answer to a question customers keep asking.
- A change in timings or a holiday closure.
Common mistakes
- Posting once and never again. A profile with an old post looks inactive.
- Using a post as a long advertisement. Keep it short and specific.
- Text inside the photo that gets cut off or cannot be read on a phone.
- A button that goes to the wrong page, or no button when you have a clear next step.
- Forgetting end dates on offers, so customers arrive for a deal that has ended.
- Reusing the same image and words every week.
Questions people ask
How do I create a Google My Business post?
Sign in to the account that manages your Business Profile, open your profile, choose Add update, pick Update, Offer or Event, add a photo and text, and publish.
Is Google My Business the same as Google Business Profile?
Yes. Google My Business was renamed Google Business Profile. Posts work the same way under the new name.
How many characters can a Google post have?
Up to 1,500 characters. Most good posts are much shorter, with the news in the first line.
How often should I post on my Google Business Profile?
Google does not set a number. A steady habit, such as one post a week, is better than a rush of posts followed by silence.
Do Google posts help me rank higher on Google Maps?
Google has not said that posts directly raise your rank. They keep your profile fresh and give customers a reason to call or visit, which is what matters most.
How long do Google posts stay on my profile?
Offer and Event posts stop showing after their end date. Regular updates stay for a while and then move down in your profile, so plan to post again.
Can I edit or delete a Google post?
Yes. Open your profile, find the post and choose edit or delete.
Can I add a link or button to a post?
Yes. Posts can include a button such as Book, Order online, Learn more or Call now. Choose the one that fits what the customer should do next.
What should I put in my first Google post?
Tell customers what is new or what you are best known for, add a clear photo and a single button. A short welcome with your best offer or service works well.
Terms used in this guide, in the glossary: Google post, Offer post, Call-to-action button, Google Business Profile.