branding

A Guide to Google Business Profile Verification

Verifying your Google Business Profile is essential to enhance your online presence
and improve customer trust. This guide provides a step-by-step process for
completing your profile verification through video submission. From ensuring your
business information is accurate to recording and submitting your verification
video, we’ll walk you through each step to ensure a smooth process. Follow these
guidelines to successfully verify your business with Google and gain access to
valuable features that help your business grow.

Click
here
to get started.

Keep in mind, Google wants to see the following:

Accurate Business Information:

  • Business Name: Use your official business name without
    additional keywords or location details.
  • Address: Provide a complete and precise address. If you operate
    as a service-area business without a physical storefront, specify the areas you
    serve instead.
  • Phone Number: List a local phone number that customers can use
    to reach you.
  • Website: Include your business’s website URL.

Business Categories:

  • Select the most relevant primary category that describes your business. You can
    also add secondary categories to provide more context.

Video Verification: Step-By-Step Guide

Step 1: Plan Your Video Verification

The video must be recorded in one continuous shot and should demonstrate the
following key points:

  • Prove Location: Start by showing the outside of your business,
    including nearby landmarks or street signs, to verify the location matches
    what’s on Google Maps.
  • Prove Management: Show yourself unlocking the front door or a
    service vehicle, demonstrating that you’re authorized to access the business.
  • Prove Operation: Show the inside of your business. Include
    tools, equipment, or products that show the business is operational, and display
    documents like business cards, tax paperwork, or utility bills that have your
    business’s name and address.
  • Additional Proof (Optional): Documents like business licenses
    or tax documents that include your business name and address can further
    solidify your verification.

Step 2: Prepare for Recording

Before recording your video, follow these technical steps to ensure a smooth process:

  • Turn On Location Services: Ensure that location services are
    enabled on your mobile device, as Google will need to verify your location.
  • Check Browser Permissions: If you’re recording in a mobile
    browser (Safari or Chrome), make sure the app has access to your location and
    camera.
  • Optimize Video Quality: Lower the video resolution to avoid
    upload issues. If your video file is too large, Google may not accept it.
  • Clear Previous Uploads: If you’ve attempted to verify before
    and failed, clear out any previous uploaded videos from your Google Business
    Profile settings.

Step 4: Submit the Video

Once the video is recorded:

  • Submit the Video: Google will prompt you to upload the video
    directly within the app. Ensure the video length is under two minutes, as longer
    videos may fail to upload.
  • Wait for Google’s Response: After submission, it may take
    Google up to 5 days to review the video. You’ll be notified if the verification
    was successful.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

  • Video Upload Fails: If the video fails to upload, try lowering
    the resolution and keeping it under two minutes.
  • Pending Edits: Sometimes, Google may place your profile under
    review after submission. If this happens, wait for the review process to
    complete.

No Confirmation from Google: Google may not always send an email
confirming verification. Check your profile status directly on the Google Business
Profile dashboard.

At RSK, your donation lives a long, helpful life!

We're here to get you there.

Share with us how we can
help you or someone you know.

View Brochure