Korey Spikes

Category: Small Business Tools

  • How to Claim Your Google Business Listing (and Why You Should)

    How to Claim Your Google Business Listing (and Why You Should)

    If you’re a small business owner with a local presence, one of the simplest and most impactful things you can do is claim your Google Business Profile. It’s free, it’s easy, and it helps your business get found when customers are searching for what you offer.

    Here’s how to do it — and why it matters.

    What Is a Google Business Profile?

    A Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is the listing that shows up when someone searches for your business name or something like “coffee shop near me.”

    It includes:

    • Your business name, address, and hours
    • Reviews and ratings
    • Photos
    • Website and contact info
    • Links to directions, calls, and messaging

    Why It’s Important

    If your business isn’t showing up in local search results or the map pack, it’s likely because you haven’t claimed or completed your profile.

    ✅ You appear in Google Maps
    ✅ You increase visibility in local search results
    ✅ You can collect and respond to reviews
    ✅ You control the information people see about your business

    And yes — all of this is free.

    How to Claim Your Listing

    1. Visit business.google.com/us/business-profile/
    2. Sign in with your business Gmail account
    3. Search for your business — if it exists, claim it. If not, create it.
    4. Enter your info (business name, location, service area, hours, website, etc.)
    5. Verify your business — usually by postcard, phone, or email

    Once verified, you’ll be able to manage and update your listing anytime.

    Bonus Tips for Optimization

    Once your profile is active:

    • Add high-quality photos of your business, work, or team
    • Choose the right business categories
    • Write a short, keyword-rich business description
    • Encourage happy customers to leave a review
    • Respond to reviews (both good and bad)
  • Why I Use HoneyBook to Run My Freelance Business — And Why You Should Too

    Why I Use HoneyBook to Run My Freelance Business — And Why You Should Too

    Running a small business is no joke. Between onboarding clients, sending invoices, managing contracts, and keeping communication organized, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. As a freelance website designer, I used to juggle a dozen tools just to stay on top of everything. That all changed when I found HoneyBook.

    What Is HoneyBook?

    HoneyBook is an all-in-one business management platform designed for freelancers and small business owners. It helps you manage projects, book clients, send invoices, create contracts, and more — all in one place. It’s like having a virtual assistant that never sleeps.

    Why I Recommend It

    I’ve personally used HoneyBook for years, and it’s completely changed how I run my business. Here’s what I love most:

    • Easy Client Onboarding – I can send branded proposals, contracts, and invoices in one streamlined flow.
    • Automated Workflows – Set it and forget it. Follow-up emails, reminders, and next steps go out automatically.
    • Professional Communication – All client messages stay organized inside each project, so nothing gets lost in my inbox.
    • Time Saved – Less time on admin, more time designing websites and building relationships.

    If you’re running a business solo (or even with a small team), HoneyBook helps you stay organized and look professional from day one.

    Try It With a Free Trial + 30% Off

    The best part? You can try HoneyBook completely free — no credit card required — and if you love it, get 30% off your first year with my link.

    👉 Click here to start your free trial + save 30%

    Running a small business doesn’t have to be stressful. HoneyBook makes it simple, professional, and manageable.