Verifying your Google My Business (GMB) profile is a crucial step for any business owner looking to enhance online visibility. This guide will walk you through the verification process, provide helpful tips, and share best practices to ensure your business stands out in local searches. Let’s dive in!
Getting Started with Google My Business
The first step in verifying your Google My Business profile is to navigate to the GMB website. Type “Google My Business” into your search engine. If you already have businesses listed, they will appear here. If not, don’t worry; we’ll guide you through creating your profile from scratch.
It’s important to note that the standalone Google My Business app was discontinued about six months ago. This means all actions must now be taken through the Google My Business website. Once you land on the GMB homepage, click on “Get Started” or “Start Now” to begin the verification process.
Creating Your Business Profile
Now it’s time to create your business profile. Let’s use an example: Joe’s Plumbing Services. Enter your business name in the required field. If there are existing businesses with similar names, Google will notify you. This is a great way to see if a profile already exists for your business location, which you can claim and verify instead of creating a new one.
Choosing the Right Category
Selecting the correct category for your business is essential. For Joe’s Plumbing Services, the appropriate category would be “Plumber.” This classification determines how your business appears in search results. Make sure to choose the most relevant category to ensure you show up under the right queries.
Location Settings: Should You Show Your Address?
Next, Google will ask if you want to add a physical location that customers can visit. For service-based businesses, this can be a bit tricky. If you primarily go to customers’ homes or businesses, you might consider not displaying your address. However, for competitive niches like plumbing, it’s usually beneficial to include your address. This helps your business appear on Google Maps, making it easier for customers to find you.
If you choose to display your address, enter it carefully. If you’re in a location with multiple businesses, consider adding a modifier to your address to make it unique. For example, instead of just “123 Fake Street,” you might use “123 Fake Street, Apt 2.” This can help distinguish your business from others at the same address.
Verifying Your Business Location
Once you’ve entered your location, Google will check if there are any existing businesses at that address. If none match, proceed to the next step. Google will then ask whether you provide deliveries or home office visits. For most service-based businesses, the answer will be yes.
Adding Service Areas
You also have the option to specify service areas. While this step is optional, it can be useful if you want to keep your exact location private. However, displaying your business pin on the map can enhance visibility, so weigh your options carefully.
Contact Information: The Importance of a Phone Number
Next, you’ll need to provide your phone number. This number won’t be visible to customers but is necessary for verification purposes. Google will send a verification code to this number via text or call. Make sure to have your phone handy during this step!
Understanding Business Video Verification
In competitive niches, such as plumbing, you may encounter a request for “business video” verification. This involves providing a video proof of your business location and services. When creating this video, ensure to include the following:
- Footage of your business address
- Any equipment or supplies related to your business
- Vehicles that display your business branding
- Your office space, if applicable
Make sure the video clearly shows your business address, as this is crucial for verification. After submission, the review process typically takes three to five days. If there are any issues, you may need to redo the video.
Boosting Your Verification Chances with Citations
Before starting the verification process, it’s advisable to establish some online citations. These are instances where your business name, address, and phone number are listed in online directories. Having a solid online presence can significantly improve your chances of a smooth verification process.
Google often checks the internet for consistency across various platforms. The more citations you have, the more credible your business appears, which can help during verification.
Final Thoughts
Completing the verification process for your Google My Business profile can seem daunting, but with the right steps and preparation, it’s manageable. Following these guidelines will not only help you verify your business but also enhance your online presence, making it easier for potential customers to find you.
Remember, the key to a successful Google My Business profile is accuracy and consistency. Ensure all your information is correct across all platforms, and you’ll be well on your way to improving your local search visibility.
We hope this guide has been helpful! If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out. Happy verifying!
