Google Business Profile allows business owners to create their own business listings so customers can find them on Google Search and Maps. You can create a business profile for free and add essential info, including your phone number, business address, website URL, and operating hours. These details are information customers usually look for when searching for a business online.
Aside from business information, you can also add and share your business logo, photos, videos, and business attributes so people can learn more about your brand. Google Business Profile lets you easily connect and communicate with customers through various features — creating posts, offers, and events. Customers can also leave reviews, send direct messages, and post questions.
Why is Google Business Profile Important?
Google Business Profile can help drive more local customers to your physical store or website. The Google Search result has a portion on the upper part of the first page called Local Pack result. The Local Pack result will only show business profile listings and information, including business category, phone number, operating hours, website URL, and direction.
When your Google Business Profile appears in the Local Pack result, customers will likely click on its information. In fact, 97% of users searched online for a local business. In addition, 72% of consumers that did a local search usually visit a store within five miles.
While signing up on Google Business Profile is easy, you need to verify your business profile listing.
How to Verify your Google Business Profile
Before you update your business name and other information, you must verify your business first. Here are the steps to do it:
#1 – Add or claim your Business Profile on Google.
Check if your business is already listed. You need to claim your business through Google Maps if there is already a listing. Check this guide below:
- Sign in to Google Maps.
- Search your business name and click it.
- Click Claim this business and Manage Now.
If your business isn’t listed yet on Google Maps, you will need to add it to Google Maps.
- On Google Maps, enter your business address.
- Click Add your business on the left.
- Follow the step-by-step instructions to proceed.
Once you have claimed or added your business, proceed with the verification process.
#2 – Pick a verification method.
You can verify your Business Profile through phone, text, email, or video. Keep in mind that you may need to verify your business listing with more than one method. Available verification methods will depend on factors like business category, public info, region, and operating hours.
Here are the several verifications methods:
Phone
- Go to your Business Profile.
- Click Get Verified.
- Choose Phone/SMS.
- Get the verification code via text or phone call.
- Enter the code into your business profile.
- Go to Business Profile and click Get verified.
- Click Email and follow the steps to verify your listing via email.
Video recording
Verifying your business profile using video recording should show your current location, business or equipment, and proof of management. Follow these steps below:
- On your mobile device, click Business Profile.
- Tap Get Verified and Capture video.
- Tap Start recording and follow the steps to record your video.
- Tap Stop recording and upload the video.
Live video call
When verifying your business using a live video call, you need to be present in the business location. This way, you will be able to demonstrate the location and ownership. During the live video call, you will need to show your current location, business or equipment, and proof of management.
- Go to Business Profile, and click Get verified.
- Tap on Video Call and click Next.
- Start a chat with a support representative.
- Click Start call and use the camera on your mobile device to prove your business ownership.
Postcard
When you verify your business via Postcard, Google will send you a mail with a verification code.
- Go to Business Profile and click Get verified.
- Choose Postcard from the option.
- When you receive the Postcard, go to Business Profile.
- Enter the 5-digit verification code printed in the Postcard on Business Profile, then click Submit.
#3 – Wait for your business to get verified.
Once you’re done with the verification method. Google will need time to review it, which can take one to seven business days. Once your business profile is verified, you will get a notification. If your business isn’t verified with the first method, you can try using a different verification method.
Once your business is verified, you can now add more business details, information, and photos/videos to optimize your business listing.
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Cybertegic is a digital marketing agency in Los Angeles that offers search engine optimization services. For a free business consultation, you can contact us via our website.
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