Is Your Google My Business Listing Helping—or Hurting—Your Small Business?

If you run a small business, your Google My Business listing (or GMB, for short) can make the difference between being found online or being completely invisible. Google uses this profile to decide how and when to show your business in search results and on Google Maps, and the setup process Google requires is getting more and more complex.

In the past, getting your Google My Business listing verified could be as simple as requesting and receiving a postcard. Now, Google often requires business owners to create a short video that:

• Shows the outside of the building and surrounding area
• Demonstrates access (keys, codes, signage) proving ownership
• A walk-through of the the interior, highlighting logos, branding, and office space

This uploaded video helps Google confirm your business is real and prevents scammers from hijacking listings.

What Belongs in Your Google My Business Profile

A complete profile Google My Business profile doesn’t just help you get verified—it helps you show up higher in local search results. Here’s a checklist every business should follow of items and information that are essential to include on your Google My Business Listing:

✅ Photos & Video: Exterior shots, interior photos, your logo, staff, and even completed projects.
✅ Business Categories: Choose all relevant categories (e.g., advertising agency, website developer, design agency, marketing company).
✅ Description: Use all 750 characters to clearly explain who you are, what you do, and where you serve.
✅ Services & Products: Outline what you offer, including details customers are searching for.
✅ Hours & Access Info: Business hours, holiday closings, parking, and accessibility.
✅ Social Media Links: Connect directly to your Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, etc.
✅ Service Areas: Add up to 20 towns, counties, or states where you provide service.
✅ Reviews: Encourage happy clients to leave reviews and respond to them professionally.

Common Questions About Google My Business Profiles

Why won’t Google accept my verification video?
Most often, the video doesn’t clearly show ownership (like your keys unlocking the front door, signage with your business name or logo). Make sure your video shows the exterior of you business, the interior of your business or office space, any signage you may have, and proof of access.

Can I list multiple services in one profile?
Google allows and even encourages you to select multiple categories. Pick all that match your offerings, but don’t overdo it—stick to what’s accurate or your listing may be suspended.

How do I get more reviews?
The best way is to ask! Provide clients with a direct review link. The marketing experts at John Rod & Co. help businesses set up easy review requests by text, email or QR code.

What if I get a bad review?
Stay calm, respond professionally, and offer to resolve the issue offline. Never argue. John Rod & Co. can coach you through reputation management strategies.

Why isn’t my business showing up in search results?
Incomplete profiles, weak or inaccurate descriptions, or missing service areas are common issues. Optimizing keywords and ensuring all sections are filled out helps boost visibility in search results.

Can I target surrounding towns?
Google lets you add up to 20 specific locations to your Google My Business listing. Including nearby towns helps your Google Business profile show up in “near me” searches (far and away the most popular form of search).

You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

Managing your Google My Business listing can be confusing and time-consuming. From verification videos to keyword-optimized descriptions, photo uploads, service area targeting, and review management, the digital marketing experts at John Rod & Co. handle it all so you can focus on running your business.