In this conversation, I (Alicia Nagel of Alicia Nagel Creative) interview Nikki Kimura of Web On Point SEO on the topic of getting your Google Business Profile verified as an entrepreneur or small business
A Google Business Profile (GBP) helps your business show up on Google Search and Google Maps-which means customers can find you, leave reviews, and connect directly with your business. But before your business can show up in local searches, you need to go through the verification process to prove that your business is legitimate and at the address you’ve listed. Without verification, your business won’t appear in search results, which means fewer opportunities to attract customers.
How Does Google Business Profile Verification Work?
To verify your business, you must handle the process directly. Google offers several methods, including a postcard, phone or text, email, or the most challenging verification method, a video the business owner must create and submit via Google's system. We’ve got some tips on how to successfully navigate video verification in particular, since it's the most problematic and growing more and more common as a requirement.
We'll cover things like:
• Exterior Shots: Film your storefront with clear views of the signage and nearby landmarks.
• Interior Shots: Show your workspace, inventory, or tools to prove your business is real.
• Proof of Ownership: Film yourself unlocking the door or displaying branded materials like business cards or vehicle wraps.
• File site: Make sure the video file is under 75 MB and has a resolution of at least 720p.
We talk about how it's important to have consistent business information across other online platforms, such as Yelp, Facebook, and other directories. If your name, phone number, or address isn’t consistent, it could derail your Google Business Profile verification.
Before applying for verification, it’s helpful to build a strong digital footprint. A digital footprint signals to Google that your business is active and trustworthy.
Once verified, optimizing your Google Business Profile will help you show up in the local map pack (the top three businesses in local search results). Do things like add images of your products, storefront, or team, include business hours and services, and create some posts to your profile. Ideally, you also have positive reviews on Google as well.
While not a guarantee, Google Ads can sometimes help expedite the verification process. Verified businesses that run ads may be prioritized, especially if they target local customers. So, running ads while you wait for verification might help speed things up. Even a modest ad budget can help with this - not to mention it can increase your visibility and help you reach more customers. If you're a local business, appearing in "the map pack" displays you in the top three businesses in search results, often above paid ads. The best part might be that Google only charges you for ads when someone clicks on them, so you get can get visibility without paying for the spot.
Getting your Google Business Profile Verified is a great way to ensure your business shows up in local searches and on Google Maps. If you’re ready to take your online presence to the next level by investing in hiring a professional, you can engage Nikki Kimura at Web OnPoint SEO by reaching her via the following methods:
Website: www.webonpointseo.com/
Calendly link: calendly.com/webonpointseo/noriko
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/nikki-noriko-kimura/
Alignable: www.alignable.com/honolulu-hi/web-on-point-seo
This video is part of a project by Alicia Nagel Creative called "Hustle With Aloha". The philosophy is that a rising tide lifts all ships, so Alicia interviews experts on topics that will be helpful for the entrepreneurial and small business community to know about, focused mostly on the areas of marketing, branding, and design. You can find more videos at www.HustleWithAloha.com.
Since 2008, Alicia Nagel has worked as a consultant providing branding, marketing and graphic design services to over 130 brands via Alicia Nagel Creative. Learn more at www.AliciaNagel.com