GBP optimization checklist
GBP OPTIMIZATION CHECKLIST 
Google Business Profiles, formally Google My Business, are a major part of digital marketing for local businesses. In an effort to make sure business are who and what they say they are, Google has made many changes over the years in how they verify locations. Initially, it only took a postcard with a code they would mail, and you'd enter the code to show you could receive mail at that location. In an effort to reduce phony GBPs they changed from a postcard to asking for several photos. They wanted to see permanent signage, photos of the location with the street sign in view, neighboring businesses, and more. Since then, they've taken it a step further. Now almost all require video verification that allow location sharing and showing the outside, inside, access only an owner would have, and branded items. Many businesses have legacy profiles with PMBs or Personal Mailboxes, which they now no longer allow. So if you move, or update your address, be prepared to reverify your business. With as many GBPs we've setup and loopholes we've had to jump through to help with the verification process, we've put together a checklist to optimize your profile, improve your chances of verification and minimize suspensions.
Initial Optimization
- Business Name: Ensure it's the exact legal/business name.
- Profile Picture: Design a 3D version of the Logo.
- Cover Photo: Design a Cover Photo using content & imagery relevant to your Service Focus.
- Categories:
- Primary Category: Use your Primary Service.
- Secondary Categories: Select other relevant Secondary categories based on your Service List.
- Services: Manually add additional services not captured during Category selection.
- Use a Business Address: If you don't have an address that you're willing to display online, consider a Virtual Office. Businesses rank in roughly a 15-mile radius based on where the address is located. If you choose not to have an address, your chances of ranking will decrease.
- Shortname: Create a Shortname that matches the business name.
- Phone Numbers: List your business phone number.
- Website: Ensure the link is to your website, even if it's not live yet.
- Business Description: Describe your services, unique selling points, and your commitment to customer satisfaction. Use keywords relevant to your services and service areas but avoid keyword stuffing.
- Operating Hours: Select your Business Hours (Don't do 24/7).
- Add Photos: Upload Photos of your work, employees, equipment, etc.
- Questions & Answers: Create roughly 10 FAQs related to your primary services and service areas.
- Add Service Areas: Add all Cities & Zip Codes that you service.
- Booking Button: Send to Website Contact Page or Other Appointment Link.
- Products: Add Services again here with a picture and brief description.
- Social Links: Link your Business' Social Profiles.
- Update the "More" Section:
- From the Business
- Service Options
- Turn on Messaging
Recurring Maintenance
- Google Review Acquisition - IMPORTANT: Ask your Customers for a Google Review; you can find the Link on your GBP. Reviews are the Currency that Google uses to understand your work activity and local authority. They boost all of your Google platforms, including Ads!
- GBP Messages: Ensure that Messages to your GBP are being monitored and can be responded to FAST.
- Review Responses: Respond to all Reviews, especially the bad ones. Use it as an opportunity to showcase your professionalism to potential customers.
- Frequently Add Images & Create Posts!
- Check your Insights: See how your efforts are impacting your Local Presence.
Video Verification Guide
This Guide tells you how to pass Video Verified using our process, which has a 95% Success Rate!
Verification Prep
- Prepare a Canvas/Sign for your "Office Door" - CRUCIAL.
- Have Business Cards and Vehicle Branding.
- Wear a Branded Shirt & Hat (Optional but helps).
- Gather Images:
- Vehicles/Equipment
- Outside of Location
- Street Sign
- Have Business Documentation with the Address on it:
- Business Registration
- Insurance
- Licensing
- Utility Bill
Verification Steps
- Start outside and introduce yourself while wearing branded attire.
- Show the outside of your Building, including Street and Surrounding Buildings.
- Go inside and showcase areas where customers conduct business.
- Clearly differentiate between Public Office and Private Office.
Important Notes
- Public Office: Showcase areas where customers conduct business.
- Private Office: Highlight areas restricted to customers.
Reinstatement Guide
For some reason your Profile has been Suspended and requires proof of Business Identity.
- Submit the Reinstatement Form and use Documentation from "Business Identity Verification (Document Submission)".
- If rejected, Request an Appeal Form and follow up in the same thread.
FOR FURTHER GUIDANCE PLEASE CONTACT US DIRECTLY AT
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