Getting on Google Maps in Cameroon: create and verify your profile

When someone searches "on-duty pharmacy Bonamoussadi" or "garage near me", Google first shows a map with three businesses. Being in that trio means receiving calls without paying for ads. It all goes through your Google Business Profile.

Step 1: create the profile

Go to Google Business Profile with a company Google account (not a personal account you might lose). Enter:

• the business’s real name, as shown on the signage, without added keywords;
• the most precise primary category possible ("Dental clinic" rather than "Health service");
• the address, or the service area if you travel to clients.

Step 2: handle an address without a street name

Many Cameroonian addresses rely on landmarks. That’s fine:

• place the pin exactly on your building in satellite view;
• give the neighbourhood and a well-known landmark ("behind X petrol station", "opposite Y junction");
• repeat exactly the same directions on your website and social media.

Step 3: verify the profile

Google usually asks for a short continuous video showing:

• the outside, with the signage and recognisable surroundings;
• the inside, with your activity (counter, equipment, products);
• proof that you run the business (keys, till, business document).

Film in one take, in daylight, with a good connection for uploading.

Step 4: complete it 100%

• Opening hours, including public holidays.
• Phone number (ideally the same as on your site) and WhatsApp link.
• Link to your website, or better, to your main service page.
• A 750-character description with your services and city.
• Services or products, with prices if possible.
• At least 10 real photos: front, interior, team, work.

Step 5: keep it alive

• Reviews: ask for them systematically and reply to all of them. Method: Google reviews: getting more and handling negative ones.
• Posts: an update or offer each week or month.
• Q&A: add frequent questions yourself.
• Photos: add more regularly.

Mistakes that get a profile suspended

• Keywords added to the name ("Clinic X best clinic Douala").
• Fake address or virtual office.
• Several profiles for the same business.
• Fake reviews.

The link with your website

The profile and the website reinforce each other: the site confirms the profile’s information, the profile sends visitors to the site. Make sure name, address and phone are identical everywhere. At NTG Studio Web, creating or optimising your Google profile is included in Premium sites.