Having your Google Business Profile suspended is a serious problem. It can cause your search ranking to drop considerably, if not wholly. However, there are a few signs to look out for if you want to know whether your Google Business Profile has been suspended. These include Incomplete verification, keyword stuffing, and duplicate listings.
Incomplete verification
Several reasons can cause a suspended Google Business Profile. One of the most common is incomplete verification. If you are still determining why your listing was arrested, it is essential to review the guidelines. If you make a mistake, you will need to take action to restore your listing.
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During the verification process, you may be asked to add an image of your business signage or directory. Google may report it to GMB moderators if you don’t add one. In addition, you may be asked to use the same name in your listing if you add one.
If you are unsure what type of violation your listing may have, you can check out Google’s guidelines. These guidelines are designed to help you make the most out of your Google Business Profile.
Google’s guidelines are a little complex to understand. However, the most common violation is a change in business information. This can include changes in address, contact numbers, and hours of operation.
Duplicate listings
A duplicate Google My Business (GMB) listing can seriously impact your local SEO efforts. Not only can it confuse consumers, but it can also prevent you from making the most of the traffic you’re generating.
Google considers duplicate listings a form of spam. These are listings created by businesses against the rules. Google wants to deliver the correct information to consumers. If your GMB listing is suspended, you’ll need to take steps to reinstate your listing.
First, you need to determine what caused your listing to be suspended. Google suspends listings for a variety of reasons. Some are due to a genuine mistake, while malicious competitors cause others.
If you think your listing was suspended due to an honest mistake, you’ll need to appeal to Google to reinstate it. You can do this through the Google support system.
Google usually reinstates listings. However, if your listing is suspended due to a severe violation, it could take up to six to eight weeks for the problem to be resolved.
Keyword stuffing
Adding keywords to your Google Business Profile may be a good idea, but it can also be wrong. As a result, Google has updated its algorithm to penalize listings for keyword stuffing.
Keyword stuffing is adding words or phrases to a business name that do not make sense. It also includes adding keywords to a business’ description that are not in the company’s registered legal name.
Google looks for specific violations, such as keyword stuffing and other spammy practices. Those who violate Google’s guidelines can be flagged and may face suspensions.
Keyword stuffing has been around for over a decade, but Google still needs to figure out how to solve the problem completely. The good news is that businesses can avoid suspensions by using accurate information and rebranding when necessary.
One way to avoid suspensions is to create a separate listing for each address. This is particularly important for service area businesses. These include plumbers, electricians, and HVAC contractors.
Signs that your Google Business Profile has been suspended
Having your Google Business Profile suspended can significantly impact your digital marketing efforts. Unfortunately, it can also cause you to lose reviews. In addition, it can be difficult for potential customers to find your business on Google Maps. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to get your listing back.
The first step is determining why your Google Business Profile has been suspended. Sometimes, this can be due to a glitch on Google’s end. Other times, your listing may be flagged for suspicious activity. Depending on the reason, it can take several weeks for Google to get back to you. Don’t hesitate to contact them if you do not hear back from Google within this time.
In addition, you may notice that your listing needs to be added to local searches. You may also see that your phone calls and visits are decreasing. You may need help to edit your listing, which means that Google cannot verify the accuracy of your business information.
