Your Google Business Profile (GBP) is an important tool in doing business. It is vital for SEO allowing your business to rank high on Google and on other search engines as well as Google Maps (Google near me)
For some local businesses, Google Business Profile is the main platform used in their SEO strategy, so when your account is suspended and the phone stops ringing or enquiries slow down on the website it can create panic.
Many business owners don’t understand what went wrong, particularly if nothing had been changed recently on their profile. Google has very specific guidelines that all businesses should follow when setting up their Google Business Profile and when you set yours up you may have inadvertently broken the rules without knowing.
I’ve had a Google My Business account for years, why would it happen now.
Just because you did something wrong years ago, doesn’t mean you won’t get caught. Google will eventually track you down and suspend your account.
So why would Google suspend your account? Here’s some of the top reasons.
- They consider your business a fake profile (Trades industry is considered a high risk category)
- Keyword stuffed business names (used for SEO purposes only)
- Using a P O Box, not business address
- Online business only (Don’t qualify for a GBP)
- You’re a service only business and operate from home
So what do you do now?
First read the Google guidelines and then check that you comply. It’s important you check at least quarterly for any updates and then update your profile. Also you need to look at restricted content to understand what you may be doing that violates Google guidelines.
Check any recent changes that may have affected your GBP?
Check any recent changes that may have affected your GBP?
Once you have found out what is wrong, then fill out the reinstatement request form.
If you can’t find out what is wrong with your profile, it’s time to seek professional help. Agencies like Rebel Agency have professional SEO specialists that can help you with your Google My Business Profile and make sure you are up to date with changes.
Cheryl Jowitt is co-founder of Rebel Connect PL, a family owned and operated Australian business that provides total marketing solutions. Rebel Connect clients have access to advertising across the company’s radio networks, Rebel FM & the Breeze and Rebel Agency, a digital marketing solutions company providing website development, SEM and social media marketing strategies.
