Google recently sent all Google My Business listing owners a link to new “simplified” rules… But on first reading, I preferred to summarize it for my customers, so I’m taking this opportunity to publish it here too! Enjoy your reading…

Here is the original link if you need more information: https: //support.google.com/business/answer/13762416

Guidelines for Google site listings

Every item placed on a facility card should accurately represent the entity concerned and comply with our guidelines. In the event of non-compliance, corrective action may be taken, such as restricting content or access.

>>> My warning here: the problem is with photos contributed by third parties or non-real photos of the site (e.g. diagram after work).

Type of unauthorized and restricted content

Information placed on a site listing must adhere to Google’s criteria for unauthorized or restricted content. These criteria apply to all types of elements, such as reviews, images and films. Non-compliant content and listings may be rejected.

>>> We don’t publish photos of the toilet! As I keep saying, avoid photos with recognizable faces (except on the staff section), and I also tend to avoid logos of brands sold in the establishment.

Account limitations

Reasons that may hinder or limit a merchant’s access to their listing include :

Google Account irregularities

If your Google Account has any anomalies (deactivation, suspension, deletion), it is essential to resolve the situation in order to access the Google business listing.

>>> Governance! If a google account is hacked or disappears (watch out for the wave of closures of unused accounts at the end of 2023), then the form will also disappear…

Limitations due to infringements in facility master records

Merchants who continually fail to comply with the guidelines could see their access curtailed.

>>>> The word “continually” is interesting… it’s starting to imply that if a merchant continually spams his title or several cards, his account will be restricted… a good thing for me because I hate these attitudes. It’s always better to invest in customer satisfaction than in skulduggery that doesn’t last.

If an account is restricted, all associated records will also be suspended. Any attempt to update from this account will be rejected until the account is regularized.

>>>> Warning for multi-brand, multi-country accounts that manage business groups in GMB… with this, I no longer recommend using a generic Gmail account, but a real google workplace starter account at €5 a month, for example.

Consequences of a suspension linked to another Google product

A listing created via an account linked to another Google service could be suspended if that account is restricted. Content from the suspended account may be rejected. The main account will have to be restored in order to reactivate the listing.

Eligibility

Google imposes conditions and limits:

Ineligible entities

Only those who have direct contact with customers during the times indicated can have a card.

>>>> Governance: the owner must be the boss of the establishment, not a passing agency or service provider!

For example, it is forbidden to create a file for :

  • Ongoing services or events in an unrepresented location.
  • Lead-generating agencies.
  • Exclusively digital entities.
  • Properties for sale or rent.

>>>> I’m having a harder time of it, especially with event-based concept stores, which are very much in vogue.

Non-existence of the establishment

Google makes every effort to provide accurate information. If an establishment does not exist at the address provided, the listing will be deactivated.

>>>> My daily battle: If you don’t have a real storefront, put a sign on the mailbox and a sign (like a notary or doctor) under your number. Don’t forget the Google Map cars that drive down your street, or a customer who can’t find it can complain.

Using a post office box as an address

The creation of a card with a P.O. box is prohibited. These files will be suspended.

>>>> This also applies to domiciliations, but I don’t think it applies to coworking spaces and operated offices (you have a rental invoice for the premises where you are present).

About the property

Here are some typical situations related to plug ownership:

Unauthorized access

If another merchant is recognized as the owner, the access of the others will be revoked.

>>>> Warning to outdoor mailboxes, I say that…

Absent owner

Prolonged lack of interaction may result in removal of access and content. A notification will be sent.

>>>> Not a moment too soon, the number of files I’ve tried to retrieve without the old e-mail responding…

Limitations on shared content

Content deemed irrelevant or harmful may be restricted or suspended.

Reasons for rejecting content

The content of a form may be rejected for various reasons, in particular if :

  • The entry is deleted before Google reviews it.
  • It is deactivated before evaluation.
  • It is suspended prior to verification.
  • Validation is required for major modifications. Unvalidated files may have their content rejected. For more information on validation, please consult the dedicated procedure.

Other reasons for rejection

Other reasons may prevent publication, such as :

  • Duplication of existing content.
  • Errors during the submission process.

Some interesting points then, especially on the governance and interactions part. Don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any problems with your Google My Business listing!