Verifying your Google My Business (GMB) listing ensures accurate and up-to-date business information, safeguarding your online presence and boosting visibility in local searches. This article outlines the importance of GMB verification, how to check your profile status, and the steps to claim or manage your listing effectively.
Why Verifying Your GMB Listing Is Important
Protecting Your Business Information
Without verification, your GMB listing is vulnerable to unauthorised changes, such as incorrect contact details or business hours. These inaccuracies can confuse potential customers and harm your reputation. Verifying your listing secures control over all key business information.
Preventing Duplicate Profiles
Duplicate listings can mislead customers and disrupt local search performance. Maintaining a single, verified profile ensures consistency, reducing confusion and improving search engine trust in your business.
Supporting Local Search Optimisation
A verified GMB listing positively impacts local search rankings, making it easier for nearby customers to find your business through Google Search or Maps. Consistently accurate details enhance your accessibility and improve customer trust.
How to Check the Status of Your GMB Listing
Before managing your GMB profile, confirm whether the listing has already been claimed. Use these methods to determine the status:
Using Google Search
- Open Google and enter your business name in the search bar.
- Review the Knowledge Panel on the right-hand side of the search results.
- If you see buttons like “Claim this business” or “Own this business?”, the profile is unclaimed.
This method provides a quick and straightforward way to check the ownership status of your GMB listing.
Using Google Maps
- Open Google Maps and search for your business name.
- Select your business location from the search results and click on the map pin.
- If the “Claim this business” button appears, the listing is unclaimed.
This approach works well for businesses with a physical presence visible on Google Maps.
Using the GMB Everywhere Chrome Extension
- Install the GMB Everywhere Chrome extension from gmbeverywhere.com.
- Search for your business on Google Maps.
- Use the extension’s Basic Audit feature to check whether the listing is claimed.
This tool is particularly useful for managing multiple locations, providing detailed audits for each GMB profile.
Steps to Claim Your GMB Listing
If your GMB listing is unclaimed, follow these steps to gain ownership:
Step 1: Search for Your Business
Visit Google My Business or Google Maps and search for your business name. If no listing appears, create one by selecting “Add a missing place” and entering your business details.
Step 2: Claim the Listing
If your business appears but remains unclaimed, click “Claim this business” or “Own this business?” Google will prompt you to confirm that you are authorised to manage the profile.
Step 3: Complete Verification
Google offers several methods to verify ownership, depending on your business type:
- Postcard Verification: A postcard with a verification code will be mailed to your business address.
- Phone Verification: Receive a code via text message or automated phone call.
- Email Verification: Some profiles can be verified through email.
- Instant Verification: If your business is linked to a verified Google Search Console account, instant verification may be an option.
Once verified, you can fully manage your profile, including updating details, responding to reviews, and posting updates.
Regaining Access to an Already Claimed Listing
If your listing has been claimed by another party, follow these steps to regain access:
Step 1: Submit an Access Request
Go to your GMB profile and select “Request access”. Google will notify the current owner of your request.
Step 2: Provide Proof of Ownership
Google may require documentation to verify your connection to the business, such as:
- Business registration certificates
- Utility bills showing your business address
- Official identification documents
Step 3: Await Google’s Decision
If the current owner does not respond within seven days, Google may grant you access after reviewing the provided documentation.
Best Practices for Managing Your GMB Profile
Once your listing is verified, effective management ensures a professional online presence and enhances customer engagement. Follow these practices:
Keep Information Accurate and Updated
Regularly update your address, contact details, operating hours, and other relevant information. Ensuring accuracy prevents customer confusion and helps maintain trust.
Engage with Customers
Use your GMB profile to:
- Respond to customer reviews promptly.
- Answer questions directly through the platform.
- Post updates about new products, services, or promotions.
Active engagement builds trust and fosters loyalty among your audience.
Optimise Your Profile for Local Search
Improve your visibility in local searches by:
- Selecting relevant business categories.
- Adding high-quality images of your premises, products, or services.
- Including location-specific keywords in your profile description.
These actions help attract more customers and improve your rankings in local search results.
Conclusion
Verifying your Google My Business listing is a crucial step in securing control over your online presence and improving your visibility in local searches. By using tools like Google Search, Google Maps, or the GMB Everywhere Chrome extension, you can quickly determine the status of your profile. Once verified, managing your GMB listing through regular updates, customer engagement, and optimisation strategies will support your business’s growth and credibility.
About Search Engine Ascend
Search Engine Ascend is a trusted leader in SEO and digital marketing strategies. Our expertise enables businesses to strengthen their online presence, connect with local customers, and achieve measurable success. Explore our range of services and let us help you navigate the ever-changing world of digital marketing with confidence.
