Verifying your Google local business listing is a critical step for building your online presence and ensuring that customers can easily find and trust your business. Google offers a new and efficient method of verification through video verification, catering to both businesses that display their address and those that operate out of residential addresses with hidden public addresses. Although this method can be more efficient than the old postcard method, we have found that it can be a more daunting task for some business owners. In order to help small business owners with this important verification, we created this guide to walk you through the detailed steps for two different business scenarios.
Why Verify Your Google Local Business Listing?
Verification helps establish the legitimacy of your business, improves your visibility in local search results, and allows you to manage your business information across Google Search and Maps. Having an optimized local Google business listing is an important and often overlooked step to enhancing a businesses online presence and SEO. There are many steps that you can take to improve how your local business listing ranks, but none of that matters until you verify your listing!
Step-by-Step Guide to Video Verification
For Businesses That Show Their Address
Step 1 - Sign in to your Google business profile
• Go to the Google Business Profile website and sign in with your Google account.
Step 2 - Select Your Business
• If you have multiple businesses, select the one you want to verify. If you haven’t added your business yet, click “Add your business” and follow the prompts to enter your business details first.
Step 3 - Choose Video Verification
• In the verification section, choose the option for video verification. Google will provide guidelines on what your video should include.
Step 4 - Record Your Video
• The video should show your business location, both the exterior and interior. Ensure the video is done in one continuous shot to avoid rejections. You will want to capture the following:
• Exterior: Show the street sign with the street name, the number on the outside of the building, and your business signage.
• Unlocking: Record yourself unlocking branded business vehicles and the entrance to the building.
• Interior: A walk-through of your premises, showcasing your workspace, employees (if applicable), and any branding elements.
• Proof of Ownership: Display proof of business ownership such as a business license.
Step 5- Upload the Video
• Follow the instructions to upload your video. Google may prompt you to upload it directly through the Google Business Profile interface or provide a link to a specific upload portal.
Step 6 - Submit for Verification
• Once your video is uploaded, submit it for review. Google will notify you via email once the verification process is complete, which usually takes a few days.
For Businesses with Hidden Addresses (Residential Addresses)
Step 1 - Sign In to Google Business Profile
• Go to the Google Business Profile website and sign in with your Google account.
Step 2 - Select Your Business
• If you have multiple businesses, select the one you want to verify. If you haven’t added your business yet, click “Add your business” and follow the prompts to enter your business details.
Step 3 - Choose Video Verification
• In the verification section, choose the option for video verification. Google will provide guidelines on what your video should include.
Step 4 - Record Your Video
• For businesses with hidden addresses, the video should show evidence that you run the business from your residential address. Ensure the video is done in one continuous shot to avoid rejections. You will want to capture the following:
• Exterior: Show the street sign with the street name and the number on the outside of your house.
• Unlocking: Record yourself unlocking any branded business vehicles.
• Interior: Your workspace inside the house, showing any branding materials, work equipment, or products related to your business.
• Proof of Ownership: Display proof of business ownership such as a business license.
Step 5 - Upload the Video
• Follow the instructions to upload your video. Google may prompt you to upload it directly through the Google Business Profile interface or provide a link to a specific upload portal.
Step 6 - Submit for Verification
• Once your video is uploaded, submit it for review. Google will notify you via email once the verification process is complete, which usually takes a few days.
Additional Tips for Successful Video Verification
Plan Your Video: Before recording, plan the sequence of shots to ensure you cover all required elements.
Clear and Steady Footage: Use a tripod or a stable hand to avoid shaky footage, and ensure the video is well-lit.
Follow Guidelines: Adhere strictly to Google’s guidelines to avoid rejections and delays.
Privacy Considerations: For businesses with hidden addresses, ensure that your video provides enough evidence without compromising your privacy.
Conclusion
Verifying your Google local business listing with video verification is a straightforward process that can significantly enhance your business’s online credibility and visibility. By following this step-by-step guide, you can ensure a smooth verification process, whether you display your business address or operate from a hidden, residential address. If you need further assistance, contact Ignite Performance Marketing for expert guidance and support in managing your online presence.
Comentários