Your primary Google Business Profile category is the single biggest lever most businesses ignore. Pick the wrong one and you’re invisible to your best customers.
Why Category Matters So Much
Google uses your category to determine which searches you appear for. A plumber categorised as “Handyman” will miss most plumbing searches. A dentist categorised as “Doctor” will miss dental searches.
How to Pick the Right Category
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Search for your primary service in your city. Look at the top 3 businesses in the Map Pack. What category do they use?
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Match your highest revenue service. If 80% of your revenue comes from boiler installations, your primary category should be “Boiler Installation Service” — not “Plumber.”
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Use the most specific category available. “Emergency Plumber” is better than “Plumber” if that’s what you do.
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Check competitor categories. Use Google Maps to see what categories your top competitors have selected.
UK-Specific Categories
Google has UK-specific categories that aren’t available in other countries. Make sure you’re using the right ones for your market.
Adding Secondary Categories
You can add up to 9 secondary categories. Use them for related services, but your primary category should always match your main revenue driver.
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