Google Business Profiles (GBPs) are one of the best ways for a local business to get online exposure. The listing is free, but to be visible to the public, it must be verified. If you are starting a new business, setting up a GBP for the first time, or moving your business to a new location, you will likely need to do a video verification. This is the current default method Google is using to verify the validity of a business and hopefully reduce spam on the platform.
In order to have a Google Business Profile, you must meet the eligibility requirements set by Google and follow their guidelines for representing your business on Google. You can set your business up as a storefront location where customers come to you, as a service area business where you go to your customers, or as a hybrid, which serves customers at a business location and also visits or delivers to customers.
Why Video Verification?
Google is trying to ensure that the business requesting a GBP is legitimate and meets their guidelines. It’s the best way for them to check-in on the business digitally without needing to visit the physical location.
Google’s video verification method tries to authenticate and confirm legitimate businesses and (hopefully) weed out spammy and fake listings that could inundate the Local Pack, Local Finder and Google Maps.
Requirements for Video Verification
You will need to prove three main things to pass the video verification and have your business listing show on Google.
- Location – You need to show the actual location or service area of your business. You will need to show the street sign, number signs, nearby businesses, recognizable landmarks or the area around your business that proves your business is at the correct Google Maps location listed on your business profile.
- Existence – Capture the storefront, showroom or business signage. Show your business name printed on permanent fixtures, such as a signboard, wall or window. If it’s a service-area business, show your work van, marketing materials, branded t-shirts, tools products for sale, etc. The business name shown in the video must match the name of your business profile.
- Affiliation (Proof of Management) – You must show that you are authorized to represent the business by recording employee-only items or areas. This can include unlocking the door to the store, opening a cash register or accessing an area that’s only available to employees. For a service-area business, this can include unlocking a van with your business name on it, recording yourself providing the service, or showing business documents, such as registration, invoices or utility bills that match the name on your business profile.
Steps to Follow for Successful Video Verification
Before you attempt to do the video, create a plan of what you will show. Make sure it meets all three requirements above. You can only record the video through your business profile; it can’t be recorded offline then uploaded as a file.
You need to start your video outside to show the business surroundings and location first before moving inside.
The video you submit must be:
- Unedited, unique and one continuous recording without breaks
- At least 30 seconds long but no longer then 5 minutes (most are 1-2 minutes)
- Recorded and uploaded from a mobile device through your Google Business Profile
The video should NOT include the following:
- Any sensitive information like a bank account, tax or identification numbers
- Any other private information about yourself or others
- Other people’s faces
If the video contains any of the above sensitive information, it will likely be rejected, and you’ll have to submit a new video.
Video Verification Process
Step 1: Record and Upload Video
- On your mobile device, go to your business profile. If you start the verification on a computer, you can scan a QR code to continue on your mobile device.
- Tap “Get Verified” then “Capture Video”
- Tap “Start Recording”
- You may be asked to allow access to your camera and microphone. Follow the on-screen instructions to continue.
- Record your video
- Tap “Stop Recording” then “Upload Video”
Step 2: Wait for Review
Now, you’ll need to wait for Google to review the video. Reviews can take up to five business days. If the listing is verified, you’ll get a notification. If the video is not verified, the “Get Verified” button will show on your listing again. You’ll want to make sure your video meets all the requirements and try another time.
Step 3 (Optional): Delete Your Video
The video is kept private and is only used for verification purposes. However, you can delete your video at any time. If not removed by you, Google will eventually delete it.
- On your mobile device, go to your business profile
- At the top right, tap “More” then “Advanced Settings”
- Tap “Video Uploads” then “Delete Videos”
Video Verification Support
If you are having trouble with video verification or need help going through this process, WebDrafter is here to help! We have experience setting up and managing Google Business Profiles for various types of clients, including store locations and service-area businesses. If you need to set up a Google Business Profile or need help with verification or other issue, reach out to our team! You can give us a call at 717-589-7812 or contact us.
