Keeping up with website and Google business listings can be tricky for time-poor small business owners. Figuring out why your business is not showing up on Google Maps can be challenging, but several factors often contribute to this issue.
It sounds simple but it is essential to ensure details such as the business name, address, and phone number are correct, and consistent across all online platforms. Inaccurate and inconsistent listings can prevent your business from appearing correctly on Google Maps and end up sending potential customers in the wrong direction.
Here are 3 main reasons why your business may not be appearing on Google Maps:
- Distance from searchers: Google Maps currently prioritises results based on proximity, so businesses located further from the user’s location may not show up in their search listing results.
- Category issues: When compiling the Google business listing, choosing an incorrect category or not selecting relevant listings can affect your online visibility, especially when users are searching for specific services.
- Visibility settings: Occasionally, settings within your Google Business Profile can limit who sees your listing, so ensuring these settings are open to all users can help. For additional information, you can also visit the Google Maps business listing guide.
How to get a Google Business Profile visible to the public?
When your Google Business Profile is not publicly visible, a few key issues could be responsible for limiting its reach to potential customers.
- Guideline violations and account suspensions: Google Business Profiles that don’t comply or violate Google’s guidelines may be suspended, resulting in them being hidden from public view.
- Regularly check for notifications from Google that indicate a suspension or policy violation.
- Follow Google’s content and review policies, especially related to Google reviews for business.
- Ensure compliance with guidelines to boost your search engine results.
- Incomplete Profile Setup: Missing information, including address, operating hours, and contact details can restrict online visibility. Make sure every profile section is accurately completed and consistent across all company online platforms.
- Visibility Settings: Certain settings within Google Business Profile may unintentionally restrict visibility to the public. Double-check these settings to confirm they are optimised for maximum reach.
At BeOnTop, we encourage keeping your profile updated and monitoring for alerts or policy changes from Google. Staying proactive, especially with elements like Google reviews for business, can prevent visibility challenges and help your business reach a wider audience.
If you don’t have the time to set up your Google Business Profile or need help managing your online presence, our team at BeOnTop is here to help.
In summary, BeOnTop, recommends reviewing your location accuracy, categories, and visibility settings at annual regular intervals to maximise your chances of appearing in local searches. Using our tailored strategies to help connect your business with its local audience our team can ensure your business gets the visibility it deserves. Ready to reach new heights and expand your online marketing? Partner with us today, and let’s put your business front and center on Google.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won’t Google verify my business?
If Google won’t verify your business, it’s often due to issues like incomplete information, address discrepancies, or violations of Google’s guidelines. Verification is essential for your profile to appear on Google Maps and in local searches, so we recommend double-checking that all business details are accurate and match any other online listings. If your address isn’t recognised, try verifying by phone, email, or hard copy mail instead. At BeOnTop, we help businesses overcome verification challenges and ensure their profiles meet Google’s requirements, making it easier to connect with local customers.
Why can’t I see my business on Google?
Sometimes this is due to incomplete profiles, restricted visibility settings, or verification delays. If your profile is fully set up but still not showing up on a Google search, try checking your visibility settings within the Google Business Profile to ensure it’s accessible to the public. At BeOnTop, we’re here to help you troubleshoot these issues and boost your visibility so that local customers can easily find you online.
How long does it take for my Google Business Profile to be displayed on search listings and Google Maps?
Once your profile is verified, it typically takes up to three days for Google to process and display it in search results and on Google Maps. Delays can happen, especially if there’s a high volume of new listings for Google to process. During this period, make sure all business details are accurate and regularly monitor your profile for any alerts from Google. Our team at BeOnTop specialises in optimising business profiles and managing Google’s requirements to save you time and help your business appear in online searches swiftly and efficiently.
