Menu Highlights

Boost Your Rankings with Menu Items, Menu Highlights, Reviews, and Photos

In today’s fiercely competitive landscape, where every local business is striving for visibility, optimizing your Google Business Profile (GBP) has never been more critical. Among the many facets of GBP that often fly under the radar, one stands out for its potential to significantly boost your visibility: naming your menu items.

Strategically naming your menu items can elevate your search rankings, making it easier for potential customers to discover your culinary delights. This isn’t just about listing what you serve; it’s about meticulously crafting each menu entry with search optimization in mind.

In this post, I’ll dive into some fascinating findings on ranking signals and share actionable insights that can help any local restaurant make meaningful improvements. While the focus will be on menu items, the principles discussed can be applied across other categories, enhancing your overall search visibility through deliberate and strategic optimizations.

Why Third Party Integrations On Your GBP Are More Important Than Ever!

Feeding information to Google effectively is crucial, and integrating your Google Business Profile (GBP) with third-party partners is the best way to do this. Running a small business often leaves little time for managing multiple platforms. Integrations not only save time but also ensure the accuracy and integrity of your GBP.

For information about removing third-party vendors, read here.

Having a single source of truth for your business that syndicates across your GBP and other platforms simplifies management. Google trusts these third-party integrations, which provide data on products, services, and menu items to help Google better recognize your business offerings. It also means users don’t have to leave your GBP to find the information they need.

GBP integrations in general, but for the sake of this article, integrations with menus, are part of Google’s strategy to keep searches within their ecosystem. Sparktoro’s study on Zero-Click Search highlights that “searchers are considerably more likely to find themselves back in Google’s ecosystem after a query.” It appears the more integrations a business has within this ecosystem, the better the outcomes for their rankings.

Top Takeaways and Tips for Optimizing Your Menu on GBP

After uncovering that menu items are a significant ranking factor, here are my top takeaways and tips for optimizing your menu on your Google Business Profile (GBP):

1. Menu Items Rank, Period!

The following ranking image is for the menu item “Jaraku roll.”  When searching the exact menu name the business dominated the rankings.

Menu Items

Keep in mind that the searched keyword matched the menu item exactly—no other sushi restaurant carries this particular item.  It’s also worth mentioning that not a single review mentions the name of this roll in the review comments.

2. Match Menu Item Names to Exact Search Queries

Conducting this exercise on menu items revealed that the name of the menu item truly matters. In my previous blog, I noted a restaurant with 47 reviews mentioning the keyword “Caesar Salad.” Many reviews also had images of Caesar Salad and a Menu Highlight with the different menu name. Despite all these mentions, the business didn’t rank. Once the menu item was updated from “Caesar Kitchen” to “Caesar Salad,” the restaurant was able to achieve a significant increase in ranking.

ranking report

So, if you’re a trendy restaurant with cute, trendy menu names, consider matching the names of your menu items to specific keywords. “Insalata” may be an authentic Italian menu item, but will it rank as well as “salad”?

3. Keywords In Reviews, Do They Influence Rankings?

As highlighted above, the business did not rank for a specific food item despite having several mentions of the menu item in reviews. Does this mean that keywords in reviews do not matter? Not exactly—they do matter, and I’ll explain why.

Recommended dishes mentioned in reviews often feature as menu highlights on your Google Business Profile. These menu highlights are derived from reviews that specifically name the dish and the images attached to those reviews.

I updated a menu highlight from “Steak” to “Tomahawk Steak” by updating my review to include “Tomahawk Steak” instead of just “steak”. Once approved, the recommended dishes section that you see when leaving a review also reflected the new menu name.

Menu highlights can change, and editing the menu highlight name isn’t always accepted. Google uses other trust factors to update the dish name. I was able to edit a menu highlight only after the review comments were updated from “steak” to “tomahawk steak.” The tomahawk steak was a special that was later removed, and as soon as it was taken off the menu, the menu highlight and recommended dish also disappeared.

 

Menu Highlights

4. How to Boost Your Ranking for Competitive Menu Items Like “Sushi”

Competing for popular menu items like “sushi” can be challenging, but there are strategies to boost your rankings. Multiple signals need to be in place due to the high competition and prevalence of the keyword in many local menus. Despite having numerous sushi items, photos, and one menu highlight, one particular restaurant still struggled with rankings. Here’s what was done to improve its visibility:

  • Updated all menu items to include the word “sushi,” e.g., “California Sushi Roll.”
  • Changed the primary category from “Japanese Restaurant” to “Sushi Restaurant.”
  • Added “Sushi Takeaway” as a secondary category.

These edits significantly improved the listing’s ranking for “sushi,” as demonstrated in the ranking images below.

7-9-24 ranking sushi

sushi ranking 7-16-2

5. Primary Category is Still the Dominating Ranking Factor

In the above example, it was straightforward to help this business rank for “sushi.” They had all the signals needed to rank: several sushi rolls on the menu, numerous images of sushi in reviews, menu highlight for a sushi roll and “sushi” in the business name. The main contributing factor for their improved ranking was updating the primary category. Changing it to “Sushi Restaurant” made a significant difference.

6. Understand Your Competitors

The sushi restaurant also has a menu item for Kobe Sliders. I wanted to see how they would rank for “sliders.” Here’s what I found: they have four menu items that mention sliders, 20 reviews that mention sliders, and 11 photos of sliders. The menu highlight had an image of the slider but was labeled “Tapas.” I tried several times to update the name from “Tapas” to “Slider,” but it was rejected.

 

Reviews slider

Although they rank for “Kobe slider,” they did not rank for “slider.” Despite having most signals in place to rank for the keyword “slider,” achieving this seems unlikely. The top 20 restaurants that rank for “slider” had “slider” or “hamburger” in their name, and their primary categories were more relevant, such as “Hamburger Restaurant,” “Fast Food Restaurant,” or “American Restaurant.” Many of these restaurants had slider menu items, multiple menu highlights labeled “sliders,” and numerous images of sliders or burgers.

Slider ranking

After a few days the menu highlight changed from “tapas” to “wagyu slider.”  I requested the name change to just “slider”.  Edits to menu highlights can be done in the “NMX” or by suggesting an edit on Google Maps.

slider edit menu highlight

None of the menu items include the term “Wagyu,” nor do any of the reviews mention “Wagyu” before “slider.” However, Google’s moderators or AI tools labeled the menu highlights as “Wagyu Slider.” Intrigued by this, I ran a keyword scan for “Wagyu Slider,” and it ranked! It’s worth noting that menu highlights take 5-7 days to review according to Google.

It appears that the name of a menu highlight is just as trustworthy a signal as the actual menu item name. If a menu highlight name does not rank, examining competitors can reveal the obvious reasons why other restaurants are outranking for that particular keyword. Take, for example, the menu highlight for “Crispy Chicken.” There was no ranking data for this keyword due to the highly competitive nature of the term.

menu highlight ranking
Crispy Chicken Menu Highlight

 

7. Reviews, Menu Highlights and Photos Are Trust Signals

Menu Highlights names are relevant. In my analysis, I noticed that a restaurant’s menu highlight was simply “Ramen,” while other restaurants had more specific highlights like “Kai Ramen” or “Spicy Tofu Ramen.” As a result, the restaurant with the simpler highlight ranked better for the keyword “ramen” compared to those with more descriptive highlights.

Photos also play a significant role in ranking restaurants. While the exact details of how Google uses photos in its ranking algorithm aren’t fully understood, it is clear that having a well-maintained photo gallery can positively impact your restaurant’s visibility. Google may use AI to analyze images on a Google Business Profile (GBP). However, AI isn’t always perfect, so it’s important to monitor the labels Google assigns to your menu highlights to ensure accuracy.

Reviews are fundamental as they drive photo uploads and keyword mentions. Without reviews, a restaurant wouldn’t generate as many photo uploads or get the keyword and menu highlight mentions that Google uses to feature prominently on a GBP. Reviews provide direct feedback from customers and contribute to the overall ranking by offering valuable insights and authentic content.

Conclusion

No single ranking factor can stand alone. Achieving high rankings for a competitive menu item requires multiple layers of optimization and trust signals to Google. Unique menu items might rank on their own without photos or menu highlights, and vice versa, outranking another business for a competitive keyword takes much more than just the menu item name.

You need a combination of strategic menu naming (think query searches), relevant photos, accurate primary categories, the right business name and consistent menu highlights. These signals work together to build trust and signals to Google that your business is the most relevant choice for potential customers. Each location has to navigate its own set of competitors, and this is where understanding the various signals mentioned here can help influence rankings.

If you need assistance with improving your local business rankings, reach out to us.

Popular times ranking boost data

Google’s Popular Times Graph: An Unexpected Boost in Search Rankings

In this blog, I share findings on how keyword rankings fluctuate in relation to peak activity periods found within the popular times graph. By examining real-time busyness data and its potential impact on search rankings, businesses can better understand when they might see a boost in their rankings. From timing promotions effectively to monitoring hourly keyword trends, these insights can help refine your local SEO strategy.

After analyzing several businesses and comparing hourly ranking data, I observed a trend where keyword rankings tend to rise just before peak hours. Furthermore, leaked Google API documents may indicate that live data on the popular times graph can potentially boost rankings.

Real-Time Busyness: Potential for Boosting

Periods marked as “Live, Busier than usual” on Google Maps possibly correlate with a boost in search visibility. According to the Google API documents; “Time range (start time and end time)” is used to identify periods when “a LiveResult is considered “hot” and thus a potential for boosting.”  The Google Api indicates a correlation between a boost in ranking and the LiveResult data.  Could the LiveResult be the live data we see on the popular times graph?

Google specifically discusses how “Busyness patterns identified by popular times are useful.”  They leverage the location history data in real time, allowing their systems to detect sudden spikes in activity and display it as “Live” on Google Maps.

Real-time busyness information: how busy a place is right now

Timing is Everything: How Peak Hours Impact Keyword Rankings

By running hourly keyword scans, you may notice a trend of improved rankings before peak hours. It is important to note that hourly trends in keyword rankings identified in this article are potentially just one of many ranking factors. For instance, a business can still rank well even during closed hours, and a less busy business can still achieve high rankings.  Let’s consider the keyword “pizza takeout.”

All scans were performed at various hours on a Wednesday.  According to the popular times graph displayed, Hungry Howie’s peaks at 2 PM and 6 PM.

Popular Times Graph

 

The following ranking reports shows an increase in ranking from 12 PM to 1 PM and again from 4 PM to 5 PM.  As the business approaches peak times, the rankings start to trend upward. Monitoring keyword rankings in relation to popular times can provide valuable insights for your local SEO strategy and reporting efforts.  You can find more examples in my recent blog, Menu Items and Google’s Popular Times Graph Can Boost Your Local SEO Ranking.

Rankings trends based on Popular Times

Key Takeaways for Leveraging Popular Times Graph on Google Maps

  • Monitor Hourly Trends: Regularly analyze the popular times graph on your Google Maps profile to identify peak activity periods. Understanding these trends can help you plan and execute strategies that align with your business’s busiest times.
  • Leverage Real-Time Data: Recognize that live data indicating your business is “busier than usual” can be a signal for a potential ranking boost.
  • Run Targeted Promotions: Schedule promotions and special events during identified slow periods to drive more customer traffic. This increase in activity can lead to improved visibility and higher keyword rankings.
  • Track Keyword Rankings Hourly: Conduct hourly keyword scans to observe trends in your rankings, especially before peak hours.
  • Understand Multiple Ranking Factors: Recognize that while popular times data can influence rankings, it is just one of many factors. A business can still rank well outside of peak hours or even when it appears less busy compared to competitors.
  • Optimize Based on Insights: Use the insights gained from monitoring popular times data and keyword trends to continuously refine your local SEO strategy.

Reputation Arm can help you optimize your Google Business Profile, leading to enhanced rankings, contact us for professional SEO help.  Follow me on X for continued ranking insights.

popular times graph

Menu Items and Google’s Popular Times Graph Can Boost Your Local SEO Ranking

In this blog, I’m taking a close look at how  menu items like Caesar Salad on your Google Business Profile can affect your search rankings. Even though it’s not a high-traffic keyword, it’s a solid example of how your menu items influence search results. In addition, I’ve also stumbled upon some interesting findings about how Google’s popular times data impacts rankings for a business. Let’s dig into how Google preferences the popularity of your business and the data you feed it through the Menu integrations.

Menu Items, A Ranking Factor?

A local restaurant is known for having table side Caesar salad.  A chef rolls a cart over and prepares a delicious Caesar salad in front of the table, anchovies and all. Fairly new, they opened in September of 2023 and had 555 reviews (4.7 average rating); out of the 555 reviews 47 mentioned Caesar salad.  Out of the 47 reviews, 43 were positive.  Despite the popularity they did not rank for the keyword Caesar salad.

I quickly realized that the menu on the Google Business Profile that was fed through an api did not have the keyword Caesar salad.  Instead the menu stated Caesar Kitchen.  After updating from Caesar Kitchen to Caesar salad on June 6th the rankings did improve.  June 7th the rankings were 71 by the 8th we were ranking #1.

ranking report

 

You can find reference to local menu items here in the Google API leak.  The leak contains mentions of price constraints, quality constraints and local scalable attributes.  I personally love adding attributes to a GBP because it directly impacts your visibility for a search intent.  For example, the attribute “serves happy hour food” on a GBP signals to Google that the restaurant offers happy hour therefore helping you rank for a users search intent with the words happy hour. For more information on attributes, read my blog on Enhancing Search Visibility in Google Maps with Attributes.

 

Understanding Ranking Data at Different Times 

Despite showing positive results, my ranking data from Local Falcon compared to Whitespark seemed off.  With Local Falcon I was ranking in the top 20 for the keyword Caesar Salad but the data on Whitespark showed better ranking positions.  At that point I realized that I was not factoring in the open times and scan times of the restaurant and starting scanning later in the evening.  This is when I stumbled on the correlation with the popular times graph and rankings.

Popular Times Graph Corelates with Better Rankings

The popular times graph on the GBP helps users understand when a business is typically busier or quieter by showing the average customer visits at different times throughout the day and week. Google states, “Google uses aggregated and anonymized data from users who have opted in to Google Location History”.  The graph provides live visit data, visit duration and wait time estimates.

My research shows that if a business is busier at a specific time of day then they outrank their competitors. Below are a series of ranking reports for the keyword Caesar Salad near me.  Notice the various times of day and how the rankings get better each hour based on the popular times graph data above.  For a deeper dive into Google’s Live popular times data and its “potential for boosting” click here.

Keep in mind that 7:00 PM is a popular time for many restaurants, and later in the evening, most tend to die out. Although, 8:00 PM isn’t this restaurant’s peak time, they still saw a rankings boost. By analyzing competitor data, I found that less busy competitors allowed this restaurant to rank higher.

Lets compare how two local business rank side by side based on popular times data from their GBP.  If I had to guess Crispelli’s will rank better at lunch time and J. Alexander’s will rank better in the evening around 7 PM solely based on the popular times data provided below.

Scan run at 12:39 PM; Crispellil’s for the win!

Scan run at 7:00 PM Crispelli’s for the win.

Scan run at 8:00 PM, J. Alexanders for the win.  As popular times for J. Alexanders increases so does its ranking visibility.

 

Not convinced? Then why is this unverified listing outperforming J. Alexander’s?  This manual search was done at peak lunch time.

Unverified Listing

 

Follow me on X  to keep up with GBP tips and new feature sightings.

 

 

image0 (1)

Enhancing Search Visibility in Google Maps with Attributes

Your presence on platforms like Google Maps can greatly impact your visibility to potential customers. In this article, we explore how attributes can enhance your search visibility. We’ll show you how to use attributes to make your profile more effective and improve your search relevance. Let’s get started!

What are Attributes in Google Business Profiles?

Attributes in Google Business Profiles are specific features or services that describe your business, such as “free Wi-Fi,” “outdoor seating,” or “wheelchair accessible.” These details help potential customers understand what you offer and match your business to their needs, directly influencing their decision to choose your services.

attributes on GBP

Enhancing Search Visibility with Attributes

Attributes play a key role in improving your business’s visibility in search results. When you accurately list your business attributes, Google can better categorize your establishment, increasing the chances of appearing in relevant searches. Incorporating attributes is a good practice and should not be neglected if you want to optimize your presence on Google Maps.

Relevant, Searchable attributes that Resonate with user Queries

The GoogleAPI.ContentWarehouse describes scalable attributes that can enhance search functionalities for business profiles. Scalable attributes, like “outdoor seating” for restaurants or “serves breakfast,” play a critical role in how businesses are discovered and evaluated by potential customers on Google. These attributes are not static; they can vary widely between businesses and are relevant for Google to distinguish a business in search queries.

In order to fully leverage search engine rankings every business needs to pay attention to the attributes and “amenities” in their profiles.

 

order online

Removing Third-Party Vendors from Google Business Profile: A Guide to Streamlining Your Food Ordering Links

 

Google has recently mandated that third-party providers offer an easily accessible option for businesses to request removal of provider links from a business’s Google Business Profile (GBP). This change is particularly relevant for businesses utilizing third-party services for food ordering links such as GrubHub, Uber Eats, Slice, and DoorDash. Often times these providers attach themselves to a GBP with no notification and without consent of the business owner.

The New Google Update Explained

Google’s latest update to their Local business links support document has brought a promising change. Now, third-party providers are required to remove their links from the profile within five days of receiving a removal request. This update aims to give businesses more control over their profiles and the ordering links they choose to display.  If a remove provider link is not displayed (as shown in the image below) the business can file a complaint using the Business Profile third party complaint form.

Remove Provider
Remove Provider

Real-World Challenges

Despite these guidelines, the process of removing third-party services is not as seamless as one might hope. In my experience, the response from these providers often falls into a black hole: forms filled out to request removal seem to vanish without acknowledgement, and follow-ups remain unanswered, stretching well beyond the stipulated five days.

For instance, efforts to remove providers like Uber Eats and Postmates from a Google Business Profile were met with significant resistance. Initial responses from support teams claimed inability to remove the listings, prompting a series of follow-ups, direct contacts, and even social media appeals to management to ensure compliance.

 

Uber Eats

 

 

Similarly, discussions with Slice about removing their ordering link from a specific location revealed a stark communication breakdown regarding who was responsible for the removal. Despite Slice’s initial compliance in removing themselves from the Google Food Ordering system (which was never turned on), discrepancies remained about removing the provider’s link off the order now options.

Slice

 

What is GFO?

GFO otherwise known as Google Food ordering is often displayed with “Storefront by.”  This option allows the customer to order right on the GBP without having to be directed to another third party site.  However, GFO is getting discontinued by the end of June 2024 and will no longer be an option.

 

Google Food Ordering
Google Food Ordering

Navigating the Process Successfully

Here are some actionable tips for businesses facing similar challenges:

  1. Start with the Remove Provider Options: Go to the ‘Food Ordering’ section of your profile. Next, locate and select ‘Edit your service providers’. Choose the provider you want to remove and scroll to the ‘Remove provider’ option. Click on this to proceed. You will be redirected to a webpage provided by the service provider that includes detailed instructions on how to request the removal. This could be through a form, an email, or a FAQ page with specific guidance.
  2. Wait 5 business Days: Once you have submitted your email or completed the form to request the removal of a service provider from your Google Business Profile, allow five days for a response. If you do not receive any communication or see no changes, proceed to fill out the Business Profile third party complaint form. TIP: If you are an agency working on behalf of the client, make sure to use their contact information and not yours.
  3. Email Your Provider’s Rep: If you have a representative from the provider, email them and let them know that you would like the provider link removed from the GBP.
  4. Documentation and Persistence: Keep detailed records of all communications with third-party providers. This includes saving copies of filled-out forms, emails sent, and any responses received. Persistence is key, as repeated follow-ups may be necessary.
  5. Direct Escalation: If the usual channels fail, consider escalating the issue in the Google Forum.

Conclusion

The ability to control which providers are linked to a Google Business Profile is important for maintaining the integrity of a business’s revenue and online presence. While Google’s policy updates are a step in the right direction, the real-world application of these policies often requires a proactive and determined approach. By understanding these challenges and preparing for them, businesses can prevent third parties from intercepting customers and redirect them to their own ordering systems, thereby protecting revenue that is rightfully theirs.

Google Bugs

Mastering Local SEO: Navigating GBP Bugs for Optimal Visibility

Struggling to rank in local city searches? Many businesses assume they will rank naturally in local city searches because their physical address is located in that city.  While this holds true for many businesses, the reality is more complex for others.  It may be important to identify if the listing has been compromised by a Google Business Profile bug affecting the address.  This article will help you identify some common bugs that will prevent you from ranking accurately.

business doesn't show in search / maps

 

Review Your Location Map Pin Placement

In your Google Business Profile, it’s important to check the accuracy of your location. To do this, click on the map image and review where your map pin is placed. Be aware that there’s a common issue where the map pin may revert to a previous address after updating to a new one.

Additionally, you can determine if there’s a misplacement of your map pin by examining the “service in…” section found in the knowledge panel. This step helps identify where your business is correctly represented and located on Google Maps.

maps placement

Identifying Map Pin Discrepancies Through Driving Directions

This issue with the map pin can also be identified by examining the driving directions provided for your business. Even if the driving directions display your new address, they will guide your customers to the location where the map pin is currently placed, which might be your old address. The end destination in the driving directions often reveals the actual position of the map pin.

Driving Directions

 

What to do if you find your map pin on your Business Profile is inaccurate?

If you find that your business is incorrectly listed as providing services in an old city location, far from your actual location, move your map pin within the edit address on your GBP. A common issue with Google Business Profiles (GBPs) is that the map pin may revert to a previous address or fail to update properly when a new address is entered. One important tip to remember: including a suite number in the main address line can sometimes prevent the map pin from moving to the correct location.

How to edit your map pin

Attention all SABs not ranking at their new address!

For Service Area Businesses (SABs) on Google Maps, the option to verify location accuracy through driving directions or the “service in” feature on their profile isn’t available.  However, it is recommended that if you find your business ranking at an old address contact Google support and specifically request them to ‘register’ your new address on your Google Business Profile (GBP). This step is essential due to a prevalent bug affecting SABs, where the new address, although entered, doesn’t get properly registered on the profile. This glitch can prevent a business from being accurately positioned within the boundaries of the new city on Google Maps.

Often times support doesn’t understand the request to register the new address.  If this is the case, you can always create a new listing and then ask support to transfer the reviews.  For more information on creating a new GBP, read 3 Steps to Move Your Service Area Business Google Business Profile Without Destroying Your Ranking.

Kansas Bug affecting Service Area Businesses 

A known issue often referred to as the “Kansas bug” is impacting numerous service area businesses (SABs), causing them to appear in search rankings for Independence, Kansas, even though they are based in different states. Why Kansas? Independence KS is near the center of the United States.

If the business address isn’t correctly registered or recognized by Google or perhaps another bug that causes the address to get removed, the business might end up without a specific location on its profile. As a result, Google’s algorithm might default these businesses to a central location, in this case, Independence, Kansas. This phenomenon isn’t just limited to the United States; similar situations could potentially occur in other countries if GBPs there are also missing precise location data. 

Kansas BUG on GBP

 

When searching for ‘All American Electricians’ within the North Kansas area (specifically at coordinates 39.1406, -94.5746), the business appears prominently in search results, as illustrated in the ranking photo provided. Interestingly, this same business, which is actually based in Tecumseh, MI, does not show up in search rankings when searching from its actual physical location.

 

 

Ranking-Report-for-All-American-KS-vs-MI
Ranking-Report-for-All-American-KS-vs-MI

 

 

Understanding Service Areas on your GBP

Adding service areas to your Google Business Profile serves primarily to illustrate the regions you cover on the service area map within your profile. It’s important to understand that this action is about visually defining your service boundaries and does not directly influence or enhance your ranking in those specific areas.

Understanding Service Areas on your GBP

Why is My Service Area Map in the Ocean?

It’s often thought to be a glitch with Google Business Profile, but in reality, if your designated service area is excessively large, Google might inaccurately display it in the ocean or extend it across state lines. It’s important to regularly check and update your service area to ensure it’s accurately represented on the map. Remember, to comply with Google’s guidelines, your service area should not span beyond a two-hour driving distance.

Map Pin Placement in Ocean or Across state lines

 

Mastering local SEO requires meticulous attention to detail, especially regarding your Google Business Profile (GBP). By diligently reviewing and updating your GBP information, addressing common bugs such as map pin discrepancies and ensuring accurate service area mapping, businesses can enhance their chances of ranking prominently in local searches.

Openness Ranking Factor

Understanding Google’s New ‘Openness’ Ranking Factor

Google has recently confirmed that a business’s operating hours now play a more significant role in local search rankings. This ranking signal, known as ‘Openness,’ is particularly influential for non-navigational queries, where users search for services or products rather than specific business names. Google now prefers to prioritize businesses that are operational at the time of a user’s search, assuming they are more likely to address user needs.

 

non-navigational queries
non-navigational queries

As this update reshapes the SEO landscape, businesses are advised against attempting to manipulate search rankings by falsely claiming 24/7 operating hours. Such practices are likely to backfire, potentially leading to penalties like suspension of your Google Business Profile or a significant drop in rankings​​.

Openness Ranking Factor

 

Google Search Liaison stated:

To adapt and thrive under this new ranking factor, businesses should:

  • Maintain accurate operating hours: Regularly update your Google Business Profile to reflect current hours, considering changes due to holidays or special events. Accurate hours build trust and reliability with potential customers​​.

 

  • Monitor your local rankings: Observe any shifts in your rankings after changes have been made and adjust your SEO strategy accordingly. If you notice a decline despite accurate operating hours, it may be time to re-evaluate other aspects of your SEO​​.

 

  • Consult with SEO professionals: If you’re unsure about how to navigate these changes or improve your rankings, consider seeking advice from SEO experts who can provide a customized strategy for your business​​.

 

Google’s focus on “openness” reflects their commitment to user experience. By prioritizing businesses currently open to meet needs, Google ensures search results are relevant and timely, saving users the frustration of navigating maps for a open business. This shift, while questionable if it really benefits searchers, incentivizes businesses to maintain accurate and up-to-date information, ultimately creating a more reliable and efficient local search landscape for everyone. Remember, keeping your operating hours accurate on your Google Business Profile isn’t just good for SEO, it’s good for your customers too!

While Google’s “Openness” update prioritizes instant gratification, the question remains: does it sacrifice future planning? Researching weekend dinner plans or booking appointments might become a frustrating dance with business hours, leaving users to wonder if “Openness” comes at the cost of convenience. Time will tell if Google tweaks its focus to strike a balance between immediate need and future plans.

 

 

 

How to reinstate your Google Business Profile

Essential Business Documents Google Requires to Restore Your Business Profile

Facing challenges in reinstating the Google Business Profile, despite adhering to all guidelines? Chances are the documents you sent to Google to verify your business are not sufficient enough to prove legitimacy.

Essential Documents for Registered LLCs to Submit to Google

While Google suggests submitting a utility bill for reinstatement, it often isn’t adequate on its own. To expedite the reinstatement process, provide Google with the following essential documents:

  • Articles of Incorporation
  • EIN documents
  • Assumed Name document or a Doing Business As (DBA) document

It’s worth noting that many businesses use a separate mailing address from their physical location. It’s crucial to ensure that the business name on your Google Business Profile aligns with the name on your Articles of Incorporation. If there’s a discrepancy, you’ll need to present your DBA document to Google.

  1. Articles of Incorporation or Organization: These documents often require listing the physical address of the registered office or place of business.
  2. Business Licenses and Permits: These often require the address where the business operations are conducted.
  3. Commercial Lease Agreements: If your business rents its space, the lease agreement will show the physical address of the rented property.
  4. Assumed Name Document/DBA: If a business operates under a trade name, the DBA filing often requires the physical address of the business.
  5. Utility Bills: If the utilities are in the business name, these would show the physical location of the business.
  6. EIN Confirmation Letter: This document doesn’t necessarily list the physical address of your business, it might contain the address where the IRS should send correspondence which could be the physical address.

The documents listed above are what Google is looking for when verifying or reinstating your Google Business Profile. Offering comprehensive information can expedite your reinstatement process. Keep in mind, Google’s primary aim is to confirm your business name and physical address. Therefore, make sure to submit documents that clearly highlight your business’s name and physical address.

How do I upload more then two documents to Google?

When applying for reinstatement with Google, you’re initially limited to uploading just two documents. However, post-submission, you should receive an email containing a case ID. Use this email to respond and send additional documents to further verify your business. While the response may seem generic, always assume that Google will review the supplementary documents you provide.

In your correspondence with Google, it’s best to steer clear of showing frustration or desperation about the reinstatement. Such sentiments won’t aid your cause. The suspension team’s primary focus is to determine that you’re a legitimate business, authorized to operate in your country.

Essential Documents for Sole Proprietors to Submit to Google

Sole proprietorships are abundant on Google Maps. These types of businesses are popular among handymen, appliance repair technicians, cleaning services, consultants, tutors, home-based ventures, and more. If you operate a sole proprietorship from your home, it’s essential to hide your address to stay compliant. For more details, refer to the Guidelines for Guidelines to Maintaining a Service-Area Business.

To assist Google’s suspension team in verifying your business, provide the following documents:

  • Local Business License or Permit: While many jurisdictions don’t require sole proprietorships to register at the state level, obtaining local business licenses or permits might be necessary based on the business type and local rules.
  • Utility Bill
  • Cell Phone Bill
  • Better Business Bureau Profile: Secure your complimentary BBB Business Profile

It’s crucial to emphasize that if your documents don’t confirm your business address and align with your business name on your Google Profile there’s a risk that Google won’t reinstate your business listing.

What If I Don’t Have an Address Listed on My Google Business Profile?

Hide your Address on your GBP

All Google Business Profiles mandate the input of an address. After entering it, you’re given the choice to conceal this address. It’s essential that the address in your profile aligns with the one in your documents. If you’re unsure about the address you’ve used, just navigate to the address field and select ‘edit’. From there, you can input the address again and then switch off the ‘show business address to customers’ option. Your profile’s map will display your service area, not the stored address.

Service Area

If you require assistance with reinstatement, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Google Suspension Help Document

Critical Steps to Take on Your Suspended Google Business Profile

How do I get my Google Business Profile reinstated?

Are you stuck wondering why your Google Profile was suspended?  You are not alone, there are several businesses that have suspension issues and don’t understand why they were suspended off Google in the first place.  Unfortunately, Google doesn’t tell you why you were suspended.  There are a number of reasons Google will suspend your profile.

#1. You Violated Google Profile Policies

The most common violations are changes to your address, category, name, website or phone number.  You may have multiple variations of your business name online or you have duplicate profiles.  Another violation is multiple businesses claim to operate from your address.  You must clarify any outstanding issues prior to filing for reinstatement.

#2. Incomplete or incorrect NAPs (name address phone)

It’s the owner’s responsibility to provide Google with the most up to date information about your business.  This includes the hours of operation.  Not only do you confuse your customers but it will raise a red flag with Google.  Ensure your Google profile has the most up to date information on your

  • Business Name
  • Business Address
  • Business Phone Number
  • Business products or services
  • Business Hours

#3 Repeated Policy Violations

If you have received a suspension notification, you must take it seriously and optimize all areas of your profile.  Be sure to examine all areas and review Google’s guidelines.  What triggered your suspension may not be the only reason you are staying suspended.

#4 Your user account is has red flags

If you have been recently suspended, Google may advise you that your user profile has been flagged for suspicious activity.  When this happens there are some extra steps you may need to take to get your account reinstated.  For more information, read Red Flags On Your Google Business Profile: Tips To Maintaining A Healthy GBP

6 Critical tips you need to review before you file for reinstatement on your Google Profile!

  1. Make sure your address and URL matches all your social links. Many people make the mistake of updating their Google profiles prior to updating their website, FB and other social platforms.  Having consistent data across all your social and website is one way Google can verify your business.  Having accurate name, address and phone numbers (NAPs) are critical to your business
  2. Update your Google map on your website. If you relocated make sure your website has been updated with the proper Map schema.  To learn more about how to embed a Google Map on your web page click here.
  3.  Add an exterior photo to your Google Profile. When you add the photo make sure to include your signage.  Window signage is also good.
  4. Review Google guidelines and make sure you are compliant. Reading through and verifying all aspects of your profile is important before you try and file for reinstatement.
  5. Get your business license handy and a utility bill. Its always helpful to provide Google with as much information to verify you are a legit business.
  6. If you are a service-area business, you must hide our business address from customers.  For example, if you are a plumber and run your business from your residential address, hide the address from your Business Profile.  To learn more about Service Area businesses on Google, visit here.

After reviewing all aspects of your profile and you are sure that all updates are up to date then you can file for reinstatement with Google.  Visit Fix Suspended Business profiles.  Most profiles are reinstated withing 3 business days.  However, it could take up to 2 weeks.

If you do not have the resources or time or simply can not get your account reinstated, reach out to us.  Reputation Arm has a 99% reinstatement record.

Suspended Google Business Profile

Red Flags on your Google Business Profile: Tips to Maintaining a Healthy GBP

Google Business Profiles are vital for businesses to enhance their online visibility and attract customers. However, certain actions can lead to the suspension of a Google Business Profile. As a Google product expert, I have witnessed numerous instances where businesses were flagged due to specific activities. In this blog, we will explore the common mistakes businesses should avoid when managing their Google Business Profiles, prevent being flagged by Google’s algorithms and maintain a strong online presence.

Create a separate Google Account to Manage your Business Profile

Do not manage your Business Profile with a Gmail account that regularly makes edits on maps, leaves reviews, or is an active email account. Avoid sharing access to your business profile with employees that may engage in this behavior while logged in. It is important that your Business Profile be managed under a Gmail account that does nothing else but manage your Google profile.

Spamming Keywords in Business Description

While it’s essential to optimize your business description for search visibility, stuffing it with irrelevant keywords is a red flag for Google. Keyword stuffing not only makes your profile appear unnatural but also diminishes the user experience. Craft a concise and informative business description that accurately represents your offerings and appeals to potential customers. Use keywords naturally and sparingly, focusing on providing valuable information rather than attempting to manipulate search rankings.

Avoid having Inaccurate Business Information

Providing inaccurate or misleading information about your business can have severe consequences. Ensure that your business name, address, phone number, and website are accurate and consistent across all platforms, including your Google Business Profile. Google’s algorithms prioritize accurate and up-to-date information to provide users with the most relevant results. Incorrect information can not only lead to account suspension but also negatively impact your reputation and customer trust.

Fake or Manipulated Reviews

Google values authentic and trustworthy reviews from customers. Engaging in fake or manipulated reviews, such as creating multiple accounts to leave positive reviews or posting negative reviews about competitors, is a violation of Google’s guidelines. Instead, focus on delivering exceptional customer experiences and encourage satisfied customers to leave genuine reviews. Respond to reviews, both positive and negative, in a professional and timely manner to demonstrate your commitment to customer satisfaction.

Reputation Arm has a comprehensive review management tool that can help your business generate new reviews, respond to reviews and provide sentiment analysis on all reviews received. Book a demo to learn more.

Violating Content Guidelines

Google has strict content guidelines that businesses must adhere to when managing their Google Business Profiles. Publishing content that is offensive, illegal, or violates copyright laws can result in account suspension. Avoid posting inappropriate or irrelevant content, and ensure that any images or videos associated with your profile are appropriate and reflect your brand in a positive light. Regularly review and update your content to maintain a professional and reputable online presence.

Suspended for Red Flags?

Google Business Profile Suspension Email
Google Business Profile Suspension Email

If your Google Business Profile is suspended and Google has informed you that your account has red flags and is not eligible to be reinstated, try these steps.

  1. Create a new Google account and add it as a user to your business profile.
  2. Transfer ownership to the new Google account. It takes 7 days to transfer ownership.
  3. Remove the original user that may have been flagged.
  4. Email Google on the original thread you received after filing for reinstatement. Let them know that you have remove the flagged user from the account.

Keep in mind that it may not always be a user that is flagged and these steps may not always have a positive outcome.

For help with a Google Business Profile suspension, contact us.