Security Protocol

How to Grant Google Business Profile Access Without Sharing Your Password

The precise, step-by-step protocol to safely add employees or agencies to your Google Business Profile without compromising your personal Gmail account.

Important: Owner Access Required

You must be an Owner of the profile to perform these steps. A "Manager" cannot add other users. If you are not the owner, you will need to request access from the current owner first.

The "Search" Method (Standard for 2026)

Google has moved almost all controls directly onto the Google Search page. You no longer need a separate "dashboard" app.

1

Log In

Ensure you are logged into the Google Account that owns the profile.

2

Find Your Business

Go to https://www.google.com/search and type "My Business" in the search bar.

Alternative: You can also search for your exact business name.

3

Open the Dashboard

You will see a control panel at the top of the search results labeled "Your business on Google."

4

Click the Three Dots

Look for the three vertical dots (⋮) in the top right corner of that control panel.

5

Select "Business Profile settings"

A menu will pop up; click this option.

6

Click "People and access"

This is where you manage users.

7

Click "Add" (or the + Person Icon)

Located in the top left or top right depending on your screen size.

8

Enter Email

Type the email address of the person you want to add.

Tip: It works best if you use a Google-associated email (Gmail or Workspace).

9

Select Role

Choose "Manager".

(See below for the difference between Owner and Manager).

10

Click "Invite"

They will receive an email immediately. They MUST click the "Accept" button in that email to be added.

Understanding the Roles

Owner (Primary)

This is you. You have the power to delete the profile and add/remove other owners.

Never make an agency the "Primary Owner."

Owner

Has the same permissions as Primary, but cannot remove the Primary Owner.

Manager

Can do everything day-to-day (reply to reviews, post updates, change hours, upload photos). They cannot delete the profile or add new users.

Recommended for agencies

Recommendation

Always assign employees or agencies as "Manager" first. This gives them full operational control without the ability to lock you out of your own profile.

The "7-Day Security Rule" (Important)

Google has a security feature to prevent hijacking. Understanding this rule prevents frustration and failed access attempts.

When you add a new manager or owner:

  • 1.They may have restricted access for the first 7 days.
  • 2.They might not be able to delete the profile or manage other users immediately.
  • 3.If they try to make major changes instantly, Google may block the action.

Action Item: Tell them to wait a week before doing any heavy lifting. This is normal Google security protocol, not a bug.

Need Help Managing Your Google Business Profile?

Sequoia GEO specializes in Google Business Profile optimization for contractors. We handle everything from Map Pack rankings to review management, so you can focus on running your business.