BlogGoogle My BusinessBusinessNewsSEOGoogle My Business Video Verification Best Practice

Google My Business Video Verification Best Practice

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Google My Business (GMB) is a vital tool for businesses seeking visibility and connection with their local audience. It allows companies to manage their online presence across Google Search and Maps, providing essential details like opening hours, location, services, and much more. A fully optimised GMB profile can significantly impact a business’s local SEO, making it easier for potential customers to find accurate information and engage with the business. One crucial aspect of maintaining a verified GMB listing is ensuring authenticity, which helps prevent fraudulent listings and misinformation. To achieve this, Google has implemented various verification methods, including video verification. Video verification is a relatively new requirement for some businesses and can initially seem complex or daunting. However, following a set of best practices can streamline the process and ensure a seamless verification experience. In this blog, we will explore the best practices for Google My Business video verification, providing a comprehensive guide to help you understand what is required, how to approach the process, and tips for ensuring successful verification. We’ll also discuss the importance of video verification and how it benefits both businesses and customers.

Understanding Google My Business Video Verification

Video verification is a method introduced by Google to help validate a business’s authenticity. It requires the business owner or manager to create a short video demonstrating specific elements of their business, such as the physical location, signage, and workspace. This process allows Google to verify the legitimacy of the business, confirm its address, and check that it is genuinely operating as described. The introduction of video verification has become more prominent in sectors where fraud or misinformation is prevalent. This additional layer of scrutiny ensures that Google can provide users with accurate information, reinforcing trust in the platform. For businesses, successful video verification can enhance credibility and ensure that their listing remains active and visible. The video should typically be between 30 seconds to a few minutes long, covering various aspects of the business, including the exterior, interior, and some form of evidence that the business is in operation. This could involve showcasing employees at work, capturing signage, or highlighting any unique identifying features.

Preparing for Video Verification

Preparation is key to successful video verification. Before you start recording, it’s essential to gather all the necessary materials and ensure you have a clear plan of what to include in the video. Start by reading through Google’s video verification guidelines to understand what is required. The first step is ensuring you have a smartphone or camera that can capture high-quality video. The clarity of the video is crucial, as Google will need to view specific details to verify your business. Make sure that your recording device has a stable internet connection to upload the video quickly and efficiently. It’s advisable to create a checklist of the elements you need to include in the video. This might involve noting down all the areas you need to showcase, such as the storefront, the interior workspace, and any signage. You should also consider what evidence will best demonstrate that your business is active and operational. For example, showing staff members working or displaying products can provide additional proof of authenticity.

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Recording the Verification Video

When you’re ready to record the video, ensure that you are in a well-lit environment. Lighting is crucial because it ensures that the video is clear and that Google can easily identify the elements needed for verification. Natural light is often best, but if this is not possible, make sure the interior lighting is bright and even. Start the video outside your business premises. This will provide a clear view of your storefront, including any signage or branding. Slowly pan across the exterior, making sure to capture the address or street number, if visible. This is important as it confirms the physical location of your business. Next, move into the interior of your business. Focus on areas that highlight the nature of your operations. This could involve showing workspaces, equipment, or any customer-facing areas. If applicable, include a segment showing employees at work, interacting with customers, or performing their roles. This part of the video will help Google understand what your business does and verify that it is currently active. It’s a good idea to keep the camera steady and avoid quick movements, as this can make it difficult for the viewer to identify specific elements. Speak clearly and provide context as you move through different areas, explaining what you are showing. While narrating the video is not mandatory, it can add an extra layer of clarity.

Submitting the Verification Video

Once you’ve recorded the video, the next step is to upload it to your Google My Business account. Ensure that you have a stable internet connection and sufficient time for the upload to complete. When submitting the video, follow any specific instructions provided by Google to avoid issues that might delay the verification process. Google may take a few days to review the submitted video. During this period, it’s essential to monitor your email or GMB account for any notifications or additional requests from Google. In some cases, Google may require further information or clarification, so be prepared to respond promptly. If your video is accepted, Google will confirm your business’s verification, and your GMB profile will be updated accordingly. However, if your video is rejected, you will receive feedback explaining the reasons. This feedback is valuable as it helps you identify what went wrong and what you need to improve in your next attempt.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Video Verification

Several common mistakes can result in unsuccessful video verification. Understanding these pitfalls can help you avoid them and increase your chances of a successful submission. One common error is failing to capture critical elements of your business’s exterior, such as signage or an identifiable street address. This is often one of the primary reasons for rejection, as Google needs to confirm the exact physical location of your business. Before starting the recording, ensure that your storefront and any identifying features are clearly visible. Another issue is poor video quality. If the footage is blurry, shaky, or recorded in a poorly lit environment, it can be challenging for Google to verify the details. Always use a high-quality camera and ensure that the video is stable and clear. Using a tripod or stabiliser can be helpful to maintain steady footage. It’s also essential to avoid showing unrelated content. Focus solely on your business premises and operations. Including unrelated people, areas, or activities can create confusion and lead to rejection. Stay on topic and make sure that everything shown in the video is relevant to your business’s identity and location.

Best Practices for Successful Video Verification

Adhering to best practices can significantly increase your chances of passing the verification process. Begin by thoroughly reading Google’s guidelines and requirements for video verification. Understanding these rules will provide a solid foundation and ensure that you don’t overlook any critical aspects. Plan your video in advance, considering what you need to showcase and how to present it effectively. Rehearse the walkthrough if necessary, so that you can move smoothly between different areas of your business and capture everything required. Ensure that your video is filmed during business hours. This will allow you to capture staff working, customers engaging, and general activity, demonstrating that your business is operational. If your business is closed during the recording, it can raise doubts about its authenticity and result in rejection. It’s also beneficial to have all relevant documents ready before starting the video. These might include business licences, proof of address, or any other paperwork that can support your verification. While these items may not be necessary to show in the video itself, having them on hand can expedite the process if Google requests additional proof.

The Importance of Video Verification for Your Business

Video verification may seem like an extra hurdle, but it is a valuable process for ensuring the integrity of your business’s online presence. It helps maintain a trustworthy ecosystem on Google My Business, where customers can find accurate and reliable information. For businesses, successful verification can boost credibility and customer trust. A verified GMB listing is more likely to appear in local searches, increasing visibility and driving more traffic to your business. It also reduces the risk of your listing being suspended or flagged, ensuring that your business remains accessible to potential customers. Additionally, video verification can set your business apart from competitors. By taking the time to complete this process, you show that you are committed to providing an authentic and reliable presence. This can positively impact customer perception and encourage more interactions with your business.

Troubleshooting Video Verification Issues

If you encounter issues during the verification process, it’s important to address them promptly. One common problem is receiving a rejection notice without clear reasons. In this case, review Google’s feedback carefully and consider re-recording the video, focusing on the areas mentioned. If your video fails to upload, check your internet connection and ensure that the file size is within Google’s limits. Compress the video if necessary, but avoid reducing the quality to a point where it becomes difficult to see details. In some cases, you may need to contact Google support for further assistance. They can provide additional guidance and help resolve issues that cannot be fixed on your own. Being proactive and seeking support when needed can prevent prolonged delays in the verification process.

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Preparing for Future Verification Needs

As Google continues to refine its verification processes, businesses must be prepared for potential changes in the future. This might include additional verification methods, such as live video calls or the inclusion of more specific evidence of business operations. To prepare for these potential changes, keep all business-related documentation up to date. This includes licences, proof of address, utility bills, and any other paperwork that may be required for future verification. Having these documents readily available will make it easier to comply with new requirements and complete verification processes swiftly. It’s also a good idea to keep a repository of video content that captures different aspects of your business. This could include footage of new locations, updated signage, or changes in the workspace. By maintaining an archive of relevant video content, you’ll be better equipped to provide updated verification materials should Google request them. Remaining adaptable and prepared for future verification needs will help ensure that your business remains verified and visible on Google My Business.

Overcoming Common Video Verification Challenges

While the video verification process can seem straightforward, many businesses encounter challenges that can hinder successful verification. Understanding these common issues and knowing how to address them can significantly improve your chances of success. One of the most frequent challenges is the rejection of the video due to inadequate coverage of essential elements, such as signage or the business’s operational environment. To overcome this, ensure that you plan your video thoroughly before recording. Make a checklist of everything that needs to be captured, and review it once the recording is complete to confirm that no important details were missed. If possible, watch the video back to assess whether all necessary aspects are visible and clear. Another common issue is the use of incorrect or outdated information. If your GMB profile has an old address or inaccurate business name, the verification video may not match Google’s records, leading to rejection. Always double-check that your GMB profile information is up to date before starting the video verification process. Update your profile if necessary, and wait for the changes to reflect before proceeding with the recording. Technical issues, such as low video quality, shaky footage, or connectivity problems during the upload, can also cause complications. Using a stable tripod or gimbal and recording in high resolution can help avoid these problems. Additionally, ensure that you have a reliable internet connection when uploading the video to prevent interruptions that could corrupt the file or delay the process. In cases where Google’s feedback on a rejected video is vague or unclear, reaching out to Google support can provide clarity. Google’s support team can offer insights into what went wrong and suggest improvements, helping you make the necessary adjustments for a successful resubmission.

Google My Business Video Verification

Google My Business video verification is a crucial step for maintaining the authenticity and accuracy of your business listing. While it may seem challenging at first, following the best practices outlined in this guide can make the process more straightforward and increase your chances of success. By preparing thoroughly, recording a clear and focused video, and adhering to Google’s guidelines, you can ensure that your business is verified and visible to your target audience. Successful verification not only boosts your local SEO but also builds customer trust and sets you apart from competitors. Contact the team of experts at CTO Digital to find out more fantastic insights.



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