Google Business Profile manages your online listing and visibility, while Google Business Video Verification ensures your business’s legitimacy. Video verification is required for some business types, like service-area or home-based businesses. There are many mistakes when you video verify your GBP, learn from here and avoid those mistakes!
Importance of Accurate Google Business Verification
- Improved Online Visibility: A properly verified business listing increases your chances of arising in relevant local search results.
- Enhanced Credibility: A verified business listing demonstrates to customers that your business is legit.
- Better Customer Experience: With accurate information displayed on your Google Business Profile, customers can easily find your business location, operating hours, contact details, and other essential information, improving their overall experience.
- Competitive Advantage: By ensuring your business is correctly verified, you gain an edge over competitors who may have incomplete or inaccurate listings, making it more likely that customers will choose your business.
To fully capitalize on the benefits of Google Business Profile, it’s crucial to avoid common mistakes during the video verification process. Let’s explore some.
1. Not Following Google’s Guidelines
Google provides detailed guidelines for the video verification process, outlining specific requirements for the video content, format, and submission. Failing these can lead to rejection or delays in the verification process.
To avoid this mistake, carefully review and adhere to Google’s guidelines, which include:
- Recording the video in a well-lit area with minimal background noise
- Clearly stating your business name, address, and other relevant information
- Providing a clear view of the business location or service area
- Submitting the video in the correct format and resolution
2. Poor Video Quality, Video length
A poor-quality video can undermine the verification process and lead to rejection. Factors such as low resolution, shaky footage, poor lighting, or excessive background noise can make it difficult for Google to verify the authenticity.
To avoid this mistake, ensure that your video meets the following criteria:
- High-resolution video (at least 720p)
- Steady camera work without excessive shakiness
- Adequate lighting to clearly show the business location or service area
- Minimal background noise or distractions
Additionally, Google has specific requirements for the video length. The video should be long enough to capture all the necessary information but not excessively long. Aim for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
3. Incomplete or Inaccurate Information
During the video verification process, you’ll need to provide accurate and complete information about your business. Otherwise, it can lead to rejection or delays in the verification process.
To avoid this mistake, ensure that you have the following information readily available:
- Correct business name (as it appears on official documents)
- Complete and accurate business address
- Contact information
- Business category or type
- Hours of operation
Double-check all information for accuracy before recording and submitting your video.
4. Ignoring the Verification Timeline
Google Business Profile has specific timelines for the verification process, and ignoring these timelines can lead to delays or rejection. For instance, if you fail to present the required information or video within the specified timeframe, your verification request may be cancelled, and you’ll need to start the process from the beginning.
To avoid this mistake, keep track of the verification timeline and respond promptly to any requests or notifications from Google.
5. Lack of Proper Identification
During the video verification process, Google requires you to clearly identify yourself and your association with the business. Failing to provide proper identification can raise suspicions and lead to rejection.
To avoid this mistake:
- Clearly state your full name and your role or position within the business
- Show identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, during the video
Additionally, if you are representing the business on behalf of someone else, you may need to provide documentation or authorization.
6. Failure to Showcase the Business Location
One of the primary purposes of Google Business Video Verification is to confirm the legitimacy of your business location or service area. Failing to adequately showcase the business location or service area can lead to rejection.
To avoid this mistake, ensure that your video includes:
- Clear shots of the business exterior (for physical locations)
- Recognizable landmarks or surroundings (for service-area businesses)
- A panoramic view of the business location or service area
If your business operates from a home or virtual office, be sure to follow Google’s specific guidelines for those scenarios.
7. Inconsistent NAP (Name, Address, Phone Number)
Providing inconsistent or conflicting information across different platforms or during the verification process can raise red flags and lead to rejection.
To avoid this, ensure that your NAP information is consistent across all channels, including:
- Your business website
- Online directories and listings
- Social media profiles
- Physical signage or marketing materials
Double-check and verify that the NAP information you provide during the video verification process matches your official business records and online presence.
8. Don’t include sensitive information
During the video verification process, it’s important to avoid including any sensitive or confidential information that could compromise the security or privacy of your business or customers. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Financial information
- Personal identification numbers (Social Security numbers, passport numbers)
- Login credentials or access codes
- Proprietary or trade secret information
Sharing such sensitive information during the video verification process could put your business at risk and potentially lead to rejection or legal consequences.
Best Practices for Successful Google Business Video Verification
To ensure a smooth and successful video verification process, follow these best practices:
- Review Google’s Guidelines Thoroughly: Before starting the verification process, carefully read and understand Google’s guidelines for video verification. This will help you prepare the necessary materials and information.
- Prepare Your Environment: Choose a well-lit, quiet, and clutter-free location to record your video.
- Practice and Rehearse: Practice your video script or talking points beforehand to ensure you cover all the necessary information clearly and concisely.
- Use High-Quality Equipment: Invest in a decent camera or smartphone with good video recording capabilities.
- Double-check info: Confirm that all the info you provide during the video, such as your business name, address, and contact details, is accurate and consistent with your official records.
- Follow the Submission Guidelines: Carefully follow Google’s guidelines for video format, resolution, and file size when submitting your video.
- Monitor the Verification Process: Keep an eye on the verification process and respond promptly to any requests or notifications from Google.
- Be Patient and Persistent: The verification process can take time, so be patient and persistent.
Tools and Resources for Google Business Video Verification
- Video Recording and Editing Software: Invest in user-friendly video recording and editing software to ensure high-quality videos. Adobe Premiere Pro, iMovie for example.
- Video Compression and Optimization Tools: Use video compression and optimization tools to ensure your video meets Google’s file size and format requirements. Popular options include Handbrake, Clipchamp, and Veed.io.
- Google Business Profile Help Center: Google’s Business Profile Help Center provides comprehensive guides, FAQs, and troubleshooting resources for the video verification process.
- Professional Video Production Services: If you lack the necessary equipment or expertise, consider hiring a professional video production service to handle the video creation and submission process for you.
In conclusion, avoiding common mistakes during the Google Business Video Verification process is crucial for ensuring a smooth and successful verification experience. By following Google’s guidelines, providing accurate and consistent information, and sticking to best practices, you can 10x your chances of successfully verifying your business listing.
