I have a suspended Google Business Profile; how do I get it back up? We get a lot of questions about websites and SEO. A frequently asked question is about a suspended Google Business Profile. Suspension is the same as having your Google profile disabled. When Google suspends and/or disables your profile, your local customers can’t find you, and we don’t have to tell you that’s not good for business.
I Have A Suspended Google Business Profile. How Do I Get it Back Up?
It’s important to mention the following: Google is fickle. It changes all the time. So, keeping up with the algorithms and ‘likes/dislikes’ of this search engine is difficult, to say the least. We can offer our own experiences and assumptions based on those experiences.
We know you feel punished, and following along with the forever vacillating preferences is a ride. It shouldn’t be this way.
Here are some things we’ve learned along the way. These particular proclivities seem to remain stable and seemingly fixed.
We often find that a suspension occurred due to a simple, innocent, and unintentional mistake. Here are some answers if you’ve ever encountered this or are currently dealing with a suspension.
The Number 1 Reason for Google Business Profile Suspension
We’ve covered this in blogs we’ve written in the past too, but it never hurts to reiterate. The number one reason that profiles get suspended is that the name, address, phone number, and other pertinent information do not match your website (and other platforms across the web).
Though it seems Google is easily miffed (not inaccurate), its purpose is to legitimize your business. There are so many ways that bad actors find to take advantage of others that search engines need to protect the searcher. This is, after all, the business they’re in. To protect the customers searching for legitimate businesses, they must ensure that businesses are what they claim to be.
This is why any deviation in information will send a red flag to Google, making your business seem suspicious.
Here are the Top 4 Questions I Get Asked About SEO.
Things That Will Help to Fix a Disabled Google Business Profile
Ensure each page has a clickable footer with your physical address and phone number on your website. Clickable links are important for those using their phone to access information.
It must be listed properly and consistently on each page. For example: If your phone number is listed one way, it must ALWAYS be listed the same, say – with (parentheses) for the area code and a dash between the prefix/suffix. If you use only periods between the numbers, that’s okay too. Just make sure it’s always listed the exact same.
Does your GMB profile match:
- Yelp
- Any other platform where your business is listed
Unfortunately, business owners don’t receive a list of the reason(s) why their profile is suspended. This essentially forces us to read the terms and conditions.
Businesses sometimes abuse the use and placement of keywords to try to get ahead of the competition. We understand the propensity for this, but Google will certainly punish you eventually. You may get more leads at the start, but you’ll pay. Another business may even report you for this, so it’s best to do it right from the start.
How Long Does Suspension Last?
Auto suspension will last for 10 days. If it’s not fixed correctly, then 10 more days. You’re basically penalized for being lazy and not following instructions. We know this is not what you want to hear, but you need to take some time to read over Google’s guidelines and then follow them. Keep it simple. I won’t finish that phrase… because it would be rude.
How Do I Reinstate My GMB Profile?
- Relax and BREATHE. Now breathe again. Nothing good ever comes from panicking!
- Read over Google Terms of Service
- File a reinstatement request
- Wait and continue to breathe. As long as you’ve done your part, you’ll be okay.
If you’ve covered the tips in this article but are still unsure of your profile status, Schedule A Call. We’ll help you figure things out.
