Getting found on Google as a market trader

Claim a Google Business Profile

A Google Business Profile lets you control how your business appears in Google Search and Maps. Follow Google's steps to verify the profile, then add your business name, category, description, photos and contact details. Traders who travel to events can usually describe the areas they cover, and the guidance in the profile set-up explains how that works.

Keep your details the same everywhere

Use one spelling of your business name, one phone number and one web address on your profile, website, social media and directory listings. Local search optimisation relies on consistent listings and reviews, so differences between sites can confuse both customers and search engines. Review your listings every few months, and correct any old addresses, phone numbers or opening details you find.

Say what you sell

• Choose the category that best describes your main product.
• Write a short description that uses the words customers search for.
• Add photos of your stall and products, with clear file names and captions.
• Update the description when your range changes, so searchers see current information.
• List your main products or services.

Post your event dates

Customers want to know where you will be next. Keep a page on your website and a post on your profile that lists upcoming events, with place names and dates. Update it after each event so it never goes stale. Include the name of the market or venue as well as the town, because shoppers often search for the event itself and then look for the traders who will be there. Remove old dates once the event has passed.

Ask for reviews

Reviews affect how customers see you. Ask happy customers at the stall, with a card or a QR code that links to your review page. Reply politely to each review, including critical ones, and thank people for their time. Keep the replies short and friendly, and avoid sharing private details about a customer or an order in a public response.

Check how people find you

Your Business Profile shows how customers reach you, including searches, calls and website visits. Look at these figures every month and note which photos, posts and events line up with a rise. Use what you learn to decide which events and products to promote next. Keep opening details and contact numbers up to date, and add a post when you launch something new or change your pitch.

Add a simple website

A one-page website with your products, events, contact details and photos gives Google more information to work with. Use clear headings and write in plain language. Link to it from your social media profiles and print the address on your stall branding.