Last Updated on: 23rd November 2023, 01:28 pm
The latest clean-up of Google Business Profile listings (GBP) is one such example, and it’s important for small business owners to be aware of the implications. Google is constantly evolving its algorithms and policies, and these changes can sometimes have a significant impact on small businesses.
Why Is Google Cleaning Up Google Business Profile?
Google is cleaning up Google Business Profile to ensure that the information listed is accurate and relevant. In the past, some businesses have used spammy tactics to game the system and artificially inflate their rankings. This has made it difficult for legitimate businesses to be found.
The clean-up process involves Google scanning all Google Business Profile listings for inaccuracies and inconsistencies. If a listing is found to be noncompliant, it may be suspended or removed from search results.
What Can You Do To Prepare For The Clean-up?
There are a few things you can do to prepare for the clean-up and protect your Google Business Profile listing:
- Make sure your listing is accurate and up-to-date. This includes your business name, address, phone number, website, and hours of operation.
- Verify your business with Google. This will help Google to confirm that your business is legitimate.
- Be patient. The clean-up process is ongoing, and it may take some time for Google to review your listing.
Google Makes Adding Social Media Profiles Easier
Google has introduced a new feature that allows you to manually add your social media profiles to your Google Business Profile listing. This is a welcome change, as it will allow you to control which social media profiles are displayed and ensure that the links are correct.
To add your social media profiles, simply navigate to the New Merchant Experience, select ‘Edit Profile,’ and then click on the ‘Contact’ section. You will then see an option to add your social media profiles.
What Does The Future Hold For Local Search?
Google is also experimenting with a new feature called the Search Generative Experience (SGE). This feature is still in beta testing, but it has the potential to revolutionize the way we search for local businesses.
SGE uses artificial intelligence to generate snippets of information about local businesses. These snippets can include things like business hours, reviews, and contact information.
It is still too early to say what impact SGE will have on local search, but it is something that small business owners should be aware of.
Key Takeaways For Small Businesses:
- Be aware of Google’s latest changes to Google Business Profile.
- Make sure your Google Business Profile listing is accurate and up-to-date.
- Verify your business with Google.
- Take advantage of the new feature to add your social media profiles to your Google Business Profile listing.
- Stay up-to-date on the latest developments in local search.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your business is visible online and that you are able to connect with potential customers. To know more updates and information like this, stay tuned with SimplyBeFound.com
