Category & Subcategory Strategy

Google uses your primary category as one of the strongest signals for when (and where) your business shows up. It’s the digital equivalent of putting your business in the right aisle of the store. Choose wrong, and you’re invisible to the customers who actually need you.

Step 1: Nail the Primary Category

Be specific: “Hair Transplant Clinic” will beat “Clinic” every time.

Match customer intent: What do people actually type into Google when they want your service?

Don’t chase vanity categories: It’s tempting to go broad, but relevance always wins.

Step 2: Layer in Secondary Categories

Google allows you to add additional categories that reflect your services. This is where nuance comes in:

Add categories that support your core offering (e.g., “Dermatologist” or “Medical Spa” alongside “Hair Transplant Clinic”).

Avoid “kitchen sink” strategy — too many mismatched categories can confuse Google.

Order matters less than accuracy, but prioritize the one that represents your money-maker.

Step 3: Test & Adjust Over Time

Google updates its category list regularly. What wasn’t an option six months ago might now exist.

Review categories at least once a quarter

Track which services bring in calls and leads — do your categories reflect that?

Watch competitors: If the top-ranking businesses use a new category, it might be worth testing.

Pro tip: Think of categories as your GBP’s “genetic code.” A small tweak can completely change how and where you rank. Test carefully, monitor results, and don’t be afraid to adapt.

Step 4: Avoid Category Pitfalls

Don’t keyword-stuff your business name — it doesn’t replace proper category selection.

Don’t choose categories that don’t represent your business just to chase traffic.

Don’t “set it and forget it” — stale profiles fall behind.

Ready to Win Local Search?

Getting your Google Business Profile set up and verified is the first step toward showing up where your customers are searching. But setup alone won’t get you into the Map Pack, consistent optimization, reviews, and data accuracy are what drive results.

If you want expert guidance (and to avoid the headaches of suspension or rejection), we’ll handle the setup and verification for you, and build the foundation for long-term local visibility.
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