To make your business visible on Google, you need to verify your Google Business Profile. Verification proves that your business is genuine, building trust with customers and letting them find accurate information on Google Search and Google Maps. While the traditional postcard verification is still available, Google now offers a more advanced video verification option, designed to confirm details of your business location and operations.
Here’s how video verification works, why it’s important, and some tips to help you get through the process smoothly.
Why Video Verification?
Google has introduced video verification to make it harder for fake or untrustworthy listings to appear. With video, Google can confirm that the business truly exists at the specified location, making your profile more credible. Video verification shows Google your business’s location, setup, and equipment, ensuring customers get accurate information.
Steps to Verify Your Google Business Profile with Video
Follow these simple steps to complete video verification and get your profile ready for customers to see:
- Log in to Your Google Business Profile: Start by accessing your profile dashboard and look for the “Verify” option. If video verification is an option, you’ll see it there.
- Prepare for Filming: Google requires a continuous, unedited video. You’ll need to record certain parts of your business, so have your phone ready, and make sure the lighting is good for clear visibility.
- Record Your Video: Google will guide you through what to include in the video:
- Business Location: Show the outside of your business with clear signage and the surrounding area.
- Interior and Equipment: Capture the inside of your business, focusing on areas customers will see and any equipment you use.
- Proof of Management: Show access to restricted areas or essential business documents to confirm you manage the business.
- Upload the Video: Once recorded, submit the video directly through your Google Business Profile. Google will review it within a few days, typically providing feedback within five business days.
- Confirmation: After Google reviews your video, they’ll confirm whether your profile is verified, making it visible on Google Search and Maps for customers.
Tips for a Successful Video Verification
- Plan Ahead: Review what needs to be shown in the video so you can record it in one go. Planning ensures you capture everything Google needs.
- Good Lighting: Make sure your video is bright and clear, so each area and detail are easy to see.
- No Edits: Google requires an uncut video, so avoid editing. Make sure you’re ready to record the entire video in one take.
- Avoid Sensitive Information: While showing proof of management, avoid displaying private or personal data. Only include what’s necessary.
Why You Should Verify Your Google Business Profile
Verification shows Google—and potential customers—that your business is real and reliable. Verified profiles also rank better in search results, helping your business attract more local customers. A verified profile means your business information, like address, hours, and phone number, will appear correctly, giving customers confidence when choosing your services.
Extra Verification Tips
- If You’re Having Trouble: Contact Google’s support team if you run into issues. They can help troubleshoot any video upload or verification problems.
- Post Verification: Once verified, keep your profile updated with current hours, contact information, and photos. Google likes profiles that stay active, and customers will appreciate the up-to-date information.
Final Thoughts on Verifying Your Google Business Profile
Video verification is a powerful tool to ensure your business profile stands out as genuine and trustworthy. When you verify your Google Business Profile, you’re not just proving that your business exists; you’re giving customers a sense of security and reliability. So take a few moments to verify your Google Business Profile with video, and you’ll be well on your way to reaching more customers and building stronger local connections.
