Get your Google profile verified
Your Google Business Profile is your listing on Google Maps. Google needs proof it's really your business, and only you can give it. Do this on your phone. Most of it takes a few minutes.
Why it matters
Until it's verified:
- you show up less on Google Maps
- you can't reply to your reviews
- we can't set it up, post on it, or show your reviews on your website
First, where are you now?
Open the Google app (or google.com) on your phone, signed in to the Google account you use for the business. Search your business name and town.
Someone else manages it?
Ask them to add you as an owner first, if you can. If you can't reach them:
- Go to business.google.com/add, search your business and pick it.
- Choose Request access and fill in the form.
- They get 3 days to reply. If they don't, Google may let you claim it. Check the email Google sends you.
If you work from home with no shop and the request option isn't there, send us a screenshot. We'll tell you the next step.
Verify it
Open your profile and tap "Get verified"
On your phone, search my business in the Google app, or go to business.google.com. Use the Google account that owns the profile.
Do the method Google gives you
Google picks the method, not you. Open the one you see.
Business video Common for trades
A short video you film inside the Google app. It's checked by a person, so it needs to clearly show you're a real, working business in your area.
Film it in this order
- Where you are. Start outside, on a street sign, a house number or a landmark near your base.
- Your business. Walk, without stopping, to your van. Hold on the signwriting so the name can be read. No signwritten van? Show branded workwear or a business card.
- It's yours. Unlock the van with your keys and open the doors.
- Your kit. Show a few tools you use for paid work.
- Paperwork. Finish on a document with your business name on it, such as an invoice, your insurance certificate or a utility bill. The name must match your Google profile.
Don't
- film anyone's face
- show bank details, card numbers, prices or customer names (cover them with your thumb)
- film a clip in advance and upload it, or join clips together
Not happy with it? Tap Try again before you upload.
Text or phone call
Google sends a code to your business number. Type it into your profile.
It has to reach a real phone. An automated menu or answering service won't pass the code on.
Google emails a code or a link to the address on screen. Open it and follow the steps.
Live video call
You chat to someone from Google, then they join a video call with you. Only during your business hours.
Be at your base with your phone. Have ready the same things as the business video: where you are, your van or workwear, your keys and a document with your business name.
Postcard
Google posts a 5-digit code to your address. Most arrive within 14 days. Type the code into your profile.
Wait for Google
Checks can take up to 5 working days. Google emails you when it's done. While you wait:
- don't make a second profile
- don't change your name, address or phone
- don't upload another video
Rejected? Open your profile and tap Review issues. Film again with everything from the first video, plus whatever it says was missing.
Last step: add us so we can get to work
- Open your profile (search my business in the Google app).
- Tap the ⋮ menu, then Business Profile settings, then People and access. On some phones it's called Managers.
- Tap Add, paste in our email, choose Manager, and send the invite.
james@leadtitan.co.uk
Manager means we can update the profile and reply to reviews. You stay the owner, and you can remove us any time.
Done? Send us a WhatsApp
Just "done" is enough. We'll accept the invite and take it from there.
Stuck anywhere? Send us a screenshot of what you can see on WhatsApp and we'll tell you the next tap.