The Ultimate Guide to Listing Your Hotel on Google Maps

When travelers search for accommodations, Google Maps is a crucial tool, listing hotels based primarily on relevance, including factors like location, price, and user ratings and reviews. But how can your hotel stand out in these searches? 

If a potential guest has recently searched for your hotel or a similar location while logged into their Google account, your property is more likely to appear higher in their search results. Google's algorithm remembers users' browsing activities, influencing subsequent searches.

Guests often use filters to narrow their search results on Google Maps. By setting filters that align with your hotel’s offerings—such as price range, location proximity, class, or user ratings—your hotel can rank higher in tailored search results. Ensure your hotel’s Google Business Profile accurately reflects these attributes to increase your chances of being discovered.

If you don't yet have a Google account, now is the time to create one. Start HERE to set up your account, ensuring to specify its use for business. This will facilitate future processes and features specific to business users. If you already have an account, you can skip this step.

Setting up your Google Business Profile is crucial if you haven’t done so already. Begin the setup process HERE. Here’s what to include:

1. Add your hotel name: Ensure it matches the name you use across other platforms.
2. Choose your business type: Indicate that you operate in the hospitality industry.
3. Add online shop: Optional, but useful if you offer bookings or other services online.
4. Select a hotel category: Choose the most accurate category from the list provided to help guests find your hotel. 
5. Add your hotel address: Critical for guests trying to locate your hotel on Google Maps.
6. Include your hotel telephone number: Another crucial piece of information for guest inquiries.

⚠️ Disclaimer: After completing these steps, you will be prompted to add your business to Google Maps. This step is essential as it ensures your hotel is accurately placed on the map, making it easier for guests to find you. 

To ensure your listing remains secure and trustworthy on Google Maps, it's crucial to verify your Google Business Profile as soon as possible. Verification can take some time, and there are several methods available:

• Letter verification: This method can take about 2 weeks but is necessary if other options aren't available.
• Telephone verification: A faster option if it's available for your type of business.
• Email verification: Another quick alternative for speedy verification.

⚠️ Disclaimer: In some instances, letter verification may be the only option. It's advisable not to delay this step to avoid any impact on your listing's activation.

Providing your hotel's operating hours is essential. It helps potential guests know when they can check in or contact the front desk, enhancing customer service and satisfaction.

Hotels are among the most photographed types on Google My Business. With the median hotel hosting around 150 photos, adding high-quality images of your hotel, including guest rooms, amenities, and common areas, is crucial.

Hotels with more than 100 images on their profiles see significant increases in engagement:

• 520% more calls
• 2717% more direction requests
• 1065% more website clicks than the average business.

As you finalize adding your business to Google Maps, fill out all relevant fields that apply specifically to the hotel industry. 

Begin refining your Google Maps listing even before your account is fully verified. This proactive approach lets you adjust details to ensure they are both accurate and compelling. Enhance your profile with features that appeal to guests:

• Social Profiles: Link to your hotel's social media pages to enhance engagement.
• Labels: Tag your hotel with characteristics like Eco-friendly, Spa, Pool, Free Wi-Fi to attract specific guest preferences.
• Reviews: Encourage reviews early on; although not visible immediately, they will populate once verified.
• Updates/Posts: Share news or special offers to keep potential guests informed.
• Direct Booking: Enable direct booking options to simplify the reservation process.
• Questions & Answers: Prepare to respond to common queries to assist guests effective.

Remember, these edits will become public once your verification is complete, setting the stage for a strong initial impression.

Completing the verification process is crucial—it activates your profile, officially placing your hotel on Google Maps. Once verified, your listing becomes searchable, enhancing your hotel’s visibility and accessibility to potential guests.

 Adding hotel to Google Maps involves several strategic steps:

1. Create a Google account for hotel. 
2. Set up your Google Business Profile with all the essential details.
3. Choose a verification method to secure and activate your listing.
4. Add open hours to let guests know when you’re available.
5. Add photos of your hotel. 
6. Fill in the rest of the necessary fields.
7. Edit your profile as needed before and after verification.
8. Complete the verification process to make your listing live.

By following these steps, you ensure that your hotel not only appears on Google Maps but stands out to potential guests. This comprehensive approach helps maximize your hotel’s visibility and guest engagement, making it a preferred choice for travelers.