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      Resolving Google Business Profile Suspensions: Causes and Solutions

      How to resolve GBP Suspensions

      Resolving Google Business Profile Suspensions: Causes and Solutions

      One fateful morning, Joe noticed his business phone remained eerily silent, save for inquiries from billboard ads, all seeking directions. Perplexed, he delved into the mystery behind his business's sudden obscurity on Google. To his dismay, his business had vanished from Google Maps, taking all his hard-earned reviews with it. It was as if his thriving enterprise had evaporated overnight. Yet, his business was real, with a visible Street View presence, professional photos, and state registration. Joe's Google Business Profile (GBP) had inexplicably vanished.

      In desperation, Joe sought Google's help through the reinstatement form, but the response he received on July 21st was disheartening:

      "Thank you for contacting Google Business Profile team. It looks like your business is not eligible to display on Google Maps per our quality guidelines."

      Fueled by determination, Joe replied with evidence, including photos of his establishment, signage, billboard ads, and a plea to restore his business's online presence.

      In a twist of fate, Joe contacted Steady Demand for assistance, where they uncovered a crucial detail – an unrecognized manager connected to the suspended listing. By removing this unverified user, Joe's GBP listing was reinstated on Google Maps in just seven days.

      The suspension had been triggered by the unauthorized manager, engaged in excessive map edits, which Google flagged as suspicious activity. This incident highlights the ease with which a GBP listing can be suspended without the user's understanding of the cause.

      Understanding Google Business Profile Suspension

      A GBP suspension occurs when your business listing on Google and Google Maps becomes invisible or is no longer under your control due to concerns raised by Google.

      A word of caution: Do not create a new listing if suggested by Google. This can result in the loss of reviews and ranking power. Instead, focus on reinstating your existing listing within the guidelines.

      Identifying the Severity of Your GBP Suspension

      There are two types of GBP suspensions: hard and soft.

      Hard Suspensions: These are severe, causing your listing to disappear entirely from Google and Google Maps, risking the loss of all associated reviews.

      Soft Suspensions: These are less severe, typically related to a user issue. The listing remains visible but cannot be managed, making it vulnerable to edits by others.

      Common Triggers for GBP Suspensions

      1. Algorithmic Sweeps: Periodic Google sweeps target specific business categories prone to fake listings. These sweeps can result from various factors, like inaccurate hours or incomplete address information.

      2. Account Issues: Suspensions can occur if an account manager or owner faces suspension. In such cases, all listings under that account may be affected. Managing multiple GBP accounts requires vigilance to prevent this.

      3. Manual Suspensions: Google employees may manually suspend your listing based on reported violations. During this time, your listing is vulnerable to removal by users.

      Common Reasons for GBP Suspension and Their Remedies

      1. False 24-Hour Open Status: Ensure accurate business hours. Listing as open 24 hours when not staffed round the clock can lead to suspension.

      2. Keyword-Stuffed Business Name: Your business name should match your signage and official records. Remove any unnecessary keywords.

      3. Virtual Office or Co-working Space Address: Avoid using such addresses, as they can make your listing a target for removal. Be prepared to provide ample evidence if you opt to stay.

      4. Address Changes: Document previous and new addresses when updating. Submit this information during reinstatement.

      5. Multiple Listings for the Same Business: Remove fake listings from your dashboard and Google Maps or admit fault during reinstatement.

      6. Multiple Listings at the Same Address: Similarly, remove fake listings or provide legal proof of multiple businesses at the location.

      Preventing Common Causes of Suspension

      To prevent suspension, adhere to Google's guidelines diligently:

      1. Keep business information updated in official directories.
      2. Invest in professional signage through a Street View photographer.
      3. Avoid creating multiple listings that may trigger suspicion.

      In conclusion, resolving a suspended Google Business Profile is feasible, but it requires proper documentation and patience. To prevent suspensions, always follow Google's guidelines and refrain from trying to manipulate the system. Remember that listing in various cities should be a strategic business decision based on revenue potential versus operating costs.