In 2023, Google Business Profiles (Google Business Profile) became a crucial tool for businesses to thrive online. Now, in 2024, their significance continues to grow. From small local cafes to large corporations, Google Business Profile has become the go-to platform for businesses to increase visibility and engage with their customers effectively.  

Google Business Profile helps you connect with your audience and expand your reach. On average, each verified Google Business Profile receives approximately 66 direction requests per month from Google searches. Whether you're a startup or a well-established enterprise, embracing Google Business Profile can be a game-changer in your online presence and business growth journey.

In this blog, we will discuss the new updates that have been made to restore your Google Business Profile and get it back and running. 

Why your Google Business profile gets suspended

One of the primary reasons for a business profile suspension is not complying with Google My Business's terms of service for local businesses. Additionally, several other common reasons can lead to the suspension of your Google business account:

Multiple duplicate listings

Google may suspend listings if it detects multiple versions of the same business, flagging them as duplicates.

Inaccurate or outdated information

Providing incorrect or outdated business details can result in Google suspending your account.

Keyword stuffing in descriptions or titles

Overusing keywords in your listing can confuse consumers and prompt Google to suspend your account.

Using offensive language in content or photos

including offensive language in any form within your content or photos can lead to suspension by Google.

Suspicious activity

Engaging in suspicious activity can also result in Google My Business suspending your account.

Non-compliance with guidelines

Failure to adhere to Google's operational or business-related guidelines.

Updated Reinstatement Process for Google Business Profile Suspension in 2024

Experiencing a suspension of your business listing on Google Maps and Search can be disheartening, but the good news is that you can take steps to have your listing reinstated by following Google's prescribed process. Here's how:

Access your Google Business Profile

Sign in to your Google Business Profile account.

Review and ensure compliance

• Familiarize yourself with Google My Business guidelines and restricted content guidelines.

• Carefully review your business listing to ensure compliance with these guidelines.

Rectify and update information:

Make necessary adjustments to your business locations to align with Google's guidelines and ensure all required information is accurate and up to date.

Submit reinstatement request

Fill out the Google My Business reinstatement form, providing the requested information.

Submit a detailed reinstatement request, including any relevant documentation to support your case.

Stay informed and responsive:

Keep track of the status of your request and be responsive to any additional information or clarification requested by Google.

To ensure a smooth reinstatement process, maintain clear and concise communication with Google throughout. Regularly monitor the status of your request and promptly provide any additional information requested by Google. For more detailed guidance on reinstating suspended Google Business Profiles in 2024, refer to our blog for comprehensive information and updates.

After Submitting the Google Business Profile Reinstatement Request

After submitting the reinstatement form, it's important to promptly check your email for a response. If you receive an email from Google Specialists, take note of the case ID number provided in the subject line for future reference. This ID will be essential if you need to contact support regarding your case.

If you receive an immediate denial, it indicates a serious issue. In such cases, reaching out to a Google specialist for clarification is crucial. Avoid making additional reinstatement requests, as this won't assist the process.

In the absence of an automated email, you won't receive any further communication from Google until your business profile goes back online. Look out for an email notifying you of updates to your Google listing, signaling its reinstatement. Alternatively, consider utilizing Cloodot’s GMB management software to monitor your Google Business Profile listing efficiently.

Steps to Take if Your Reinstatement Request is Denied

• If Google denies your reinstatement request, you have the option to appeal the decision. Before doing so, review Google's guidelines to ensure compliance.

• Present your case by submitting a written email explanation detailing why your profile should be reinstated, accompanied by relevant supporting evidence. 

• This evidence may include images of your business location and a summary of your business operations. Expect a decision within two weeks of submitting the appeal.

  
  

Preventive Measures and Best Practices to Avoid Google Business Profile Suspension in 2024

To steer clear of Google My Business suspensions, implementing preventive measures and adhering to best practices is essential:

Regular information updates

Ensure all business details, such as address, contact information, and operating hours, are frequently updated to reflect accuracy.

Adherence to updated guidelines

Familiarize yourself with and strictly adhere to the latest Google guidelines for representing your business.

Transparency and accuracy

Avoid providing misleading or inaccurate information about your business to prevent any potential violations.

Vigilant monitoring

Keep a close eye on any changes made by users or third parties to your business listing, promptly rectifying any inaccuracies.

Effective review management

Implement a robust review management tool, responding professionally to all reviews and avoiding the use of fake reviews.

Precision in category selection

Choose business categories that accurately represent your business to prevent any confusion or misinformation.

Authentic visual representation

Utilize genuine photos of your business, steering clear of stock images, to provide an authentic depiction of your services.

Compliant promotion practices

Ensure any promotional content within your business listing adheres to Google's guidelines, maintaining relevance and appropriateness.

Routine audits

Conduct regular audits of your Google Business Profile to ensure compliance with guidelines and maintain information accuracy

Education and awareness

Educate all team members responsible for managing your Google Business Profile about the latest policies and guidelines to prevent unintentional violations. Regular training sessions and updates can help reinforce compliance efforts.