Why Verifying Your Google Business Account is Crucial
Verifying your Google Business account is a critical step to ensuring your business appears on Google Search and Maps. Whether you’re a small business owner or managing a large company, a verified Google Business Profile (GBP) boosts your credibility and visibility, helping potential customers find you online.
In this guide, we will walk you through various methods to verify your Google Business account and ensure your profile is fully optimized for maximum exposure. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to take advantage of Google’s free business tools.
What is Google Business Profile Verification?
Google Business Profile verification is the process that confirms your business is legitimate and that you are the rightful owner or manager of the business listing.
Without verification, your business won’t appear in local search results or on Google Maps. It’s crucial for local SEO as it increases your chances of being found by potential customers in your area.
How to Verify Your Google Business Account: The Basic Methods
There are several methods to verify your Google Business account, each suitable for different types of businesses. Let’s explore the most common verification methods available.
1. Postcard Verification
Postcard verification is one of the most commonly used methods. When you create or claim a business on Google, Google will send a postcard to your business address. This postcard contains a verification code that you’ll need to enter into your Google Business Profile account.
Why Postcard Verification?
- It is reliable and straightforward.
- Best for businesses with a physical address.
- The postcard typically arrives in 5-14 days.
Verifying Your Google Business Profile with a Phone Call
If your business is eligible for phone verification, Google will send you a PIN by phone. This method is available for some businesses, especially those with a longstanding presence on Google. Phone verification is quicker compared to postcard verification.
How to Verify by Phone
- Select the “Phone” option when prompted during the verification process.
- Enter your business phone number.
- Wait for a call from Google with a PIN.
- Enter the PIN into your Google Business Profile to complete the verification.
Email Verification: A Convenient Option
Email verification is another option, though it’s less commonly available. This method is often offered to businesses that have been previously verified or for those whose information matches existing Google data.
Steps to Verify by Email
- During the verification process, select the “Email” option.
- Check your inbox for the verification code.
- Enter the code in your Google Business Profile.
Video Verification: A New and Secure Method
Video verification was introduced to provide more secure verification for businesses with remote locations or no physical storefront. This method involves providing a video that shows your business operations and location.
How to Verify with Video
- Select the video verification option.
- Record a video showing the exterior of your business, any signage, and, if possible, the interior.
- Submit the video to Google for review.
Instant Verification: For Previously Verified Businesses
Instant verification is available for businesses that have already been verified in other Google services. This is often the quickest option for businesses that have linked their account to other verified Google services, such as Google Search Console.
How to Verify Instantly
- Sign in to your Google Business Profile.
- Check if you have access to Instant Verification.
- If eligible, your profile will automatically be verified.
Troubleshooting Verification Issues
Sometimes, businesses may face challenges during the verification process. Common issues include incorrect information, delays in receiving verification postcards, or eligibility problems with phone or email verification.
Common Troubleshooting Tips
- Double-check your business address to ensure it matches Google’s records.
- Ensure your business is visible and reachable at the provided address.
- Use the “Resend postcard” option if you haven’t received it after a specific period.
Optimizing Your Google Business Profile After Verification
Once your Google Business Profile is verified, it’s essential to keep it up to date and optimized to attract more customers. Verified profiles appear in local search results, but they can stand out even more with the proper optimization techniques.
Key Optimization Tips
- Complete Your Profile: Fill in all required fields, including hours, services, and a business description.
- Add Photos: Profiles with photos receive 42% more requests for directions and 35% more click-throughs to websites.
- Encourage Reviews: Customer reviews help your business rank higher in search results and influence customer decisions.
- Update Regularly: Keep your profile current with up-to-date business hours, promotions, and any changes.
Conclusion:
Verifying your Google Business Profile is an essential step to boosting your online presence and ensuring customers can find you. Whether you choose postcard, phone, email, or video verification, completing this process will increase your visibility on Google Search and Google Maps.
Once verified, remember to keep your profile up to date and optimized to attract more local customers. By following the steps in this guide, you’ll be on your way to enhancing your local SEO and growing your business.