Google has been integral in transforming the way businesses operate online. As a platform that constantly evolves and updates, it has recently announced some changes to the Google Business Profile policies. The changes aim to create an online space where businesses can better represent themselves and protect their image. Here’s everything you need to know about these new policy changes.
Google Business Profile Policies Overview
Google requires that any content added to a Business Profile should accurately represent the business location and adhere to all the platform’s policies and guidelines. The search giant will not shy away from taking necessary actions to restrict any violating content from displaying, or even restrict access to the profile or the merchant account.
While Google provides an outline of its key policies, this is not comprehensive. To fully understand Google Business Profile policies and guidelines, view the complete list.
Prohibited and Restricted Content
Every form of content added to a Google Business Profile must abide by Google’s Prohibited and Restricted Content policies. These guidelines cover all content formats, such as Reviews, Photos, and Videos. Any profiles and content that fail to meet these criteria may be rejected from publication on Google.
Account Level Restrictions
Google may limit or suspend a merchant’s access to their Business Profile for a variety of reasons:
- If the Google Account is not in good standing.
- If the account is restricted from Business Profile activity.
- If the profile suspension occurs due to other Google product account restriction.
Business Profile Eligibility
Google has set up certain restrictions and qualifications for Business Profiles. These include:
- Ineligibility for businesses that do not exist.
- Disqualification for businesses using a P.O. Box address.
Ownership Concerns
Google outlines possible issues with Business Profile ownership, such as unauthorized profile access and inactive ownership.
Posting Restrictions
Google has also established posting restrictions. For instance, if user contributions are consistently unhelpful, harmful, or off-topic, Google may limit or suspend user-generated content for that profile. An example could be a string of negative reviews for a business that are unrelated to the business itself. Learn more about posting restrictions.
Reasons Content May Be Rejected
Content added to a Business Profile can be rejected for several reasons:
- Deleted profile.
- Disabled profile.
- Suspended profile.
- Verification required.
There may also be non-policy reasons why submitted content fails to publish. These can include a profile or content already being live or submission errors.
In conclusion, the new changes to Google Business Profile policies emphasize the importance of adhering to the guidelines set forth by Google. Businesses should review these changes carefully and ensure they comply to maintain a positive online presence.
At Gizoom Marketing, we understand the importance of staying up-to-date with the latest policy changes and how they affect businesses. We are committed to helping you navigate these changes and optimize your Google Business Profile. Feel free to reach out to us if you need help with understanding these policy changes and how they apply to your business.
