Steps to Get Your Business Verified on Google
Steps to Get Your Business Verified on Google
In today’s digital age, having your business verified on Google is crucial. It not only enhances your credibility but also improves your visibility among potential customers using Google Search and Maps. A verified business on Google is more likely to attract clicks, phone calls, and visits to its physical location. Here, we’re going to walk through the process of getting your business verified on Google, a step that’s essential for boosting your business’s online presence and customer trust.
1. Setting Up a Google My Business Account
The first step in getting your business verified on Google is to create a Google My Business account. If you haven’t already set up an account, go to google.com/business and sign in with your usual Google account. This should be a Google account that you plan on using for your business communications. After signing in, you’ll be prompted to add the name of your business and follow the straightforward steps to create your business listing. It’s critical at this stage to ensure all your business information is accurate and up-to-date, including your business name, address, phone number, and category. This information will help Google and your customers understand more about your business.
2. Choosing Your Verification Option
Once you have filled in your business details, Google will require you to verify your business to assert that the information provided is accurate and that you are the rightful owner or manager of the business listed. Google offers several verification methods including postcard by mail, phone, email, or instant verification through Google Search Console for some businesses. The most common method is receiving a postcard by mail at the business address you’ve provided. It’s important to select the verification method that works best for you and follow through with the instructions provided by Google.
3. Receiving and Entering the Verification Code
If you choose verification via postal mail, Google will send a postcard to your business address within a couple of weeks. This postcard will contain a verification code. Once you receive it, log in to your Google My Business account and enter the code as instructed. This step confirms the physical location of your business and completes the verification process. If you’re using another method like phone or email, you’ll receive the code through the selected method and you should enter it as soon as you receive it to avoid delays in the verification process.
4. Optimizing Your Google My Business Listing
After your business is verified, it’s time to optimize your Google My Business listing. This entails completing every section of your profile thoroughly and accurately. Upload high-quality photos of your business, including your products, services, and premises. Add your business hours, frequently asked questions, and attributes that best describe your business. Encouraging satisfied customers to leave positive reviews on your Google My Business profile can also greatly enhance your visibility and attract more customers.
5. Regularly Updating Your Listing
Once verified, it’s important to keep your Google My Business listing up-to-date. Regularly update any changes in your business information, such as new business hours, relocation, or contact details. Google favors updated and accurate information, which can help your business listing appear more prominently in search results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What should I do if my verification postcard hasn’t arrived?
If your Google My Business verification postcard hasn’t arrived within 14 days, it’s advisable to request another postcard through your Google My Business account. Ensure that the business address is accurate and there are no impediments to mail delivery at your location. Occasionally, postcards can get lost or misplaced, so requesting a new one is both common and recommended if needed.
How do I change my business information after verification?
To change your business information after it has been verified, simply log in to your Google My Business account and navigate to the “Info” section. Here, you can edit details such as your business name, address, contact information, and operating hours. Remember to keep all information up to date to maintain the trust of your customers and improve your search ranking on Google.
Can I verify my business on Google without a physical address?
Yes, you can verify your business on Google even if you don’t have a physical address by listing it as a Service Area Business. During the setup process, you will be given the option to specify that you deliver goods and services to your customers at their locations, which negates the need for a physical address. Google may still require verification through other means to ensure the legitimacy of your business.
Why is my business not showing up on Google after verification?
After verification, it may take a few days for your business listing to show up on Google Maps and Search. If, after a few days, your listing is still not appearing, make sure that your Google My Business profile is fully completed and complies with Google’s guidelines. Issues such as having incomplete information, violating service quality standards, or Google deeming your business as irrelevant to users’ search queries might prevent your listing from being displayed.
How can I remove or report fake reviews from my Google My Business listing?
If you encounter fake or inappropriate reviews on your Google My Business listing, you can flag them directly within your account for Google to review. Navigate to the review section, find the questionable review, click on the three dots next to it, and select Flag as inappropriate. Google will then review the report and may remove the review if it violates Google’s review policies. Keep in mind that Google does not mediate factual disputes, so it’s important to also respond professionally to any negative reviews, where appropriate.
Can multiple users manage my Google My Business listing?
Yes, you can add multiple users to manage your Google My Business listing. This is particularly useful for businesses with more than one owner or if you have a digital marketing team that requires access to your profile. To add or remove users, log into your Google My Business account, go to the “Users” section, and you can then invite others via their email addresses to manage your listing. You can assign different roles (Owner, Manager, or Site Manager) depending on the level of access you want to grant them.
What are Google My Business Attributes, and why are they important?
Google My Business Attributes allow you to highlight specific features and amenities of your business, such as Free Wi-Fi, Wheelchair Accessible, or Outdoor Seating. These attributes help customers make informed decisions by providing them with additional insights into what your business offers. They can significantly impact the visibility and attractiveness of your listing, making it more likely that customers who are looking for specific features will choose your business.
Getting your business verified on Google enhances its credibility and visibility online. By following the steps outlined above and addressing common concerns through the FAQs,
business owners can navigate the verification process smoothly and optimize their presence on one of the world’s most significant search engines.