Experiencing the suspension of your Google listing can be quite disconcerting. It's natural to feel perplexed about the reasons behind it and unsure about your next steps. Following the correct procedures, it is possible to recover a suspended Google My Business listing account. Suspension can result in either a soft or hard status on Google Maps and Search.

Check out this guide to the process of recovering your Google Business listing profile and getting back to your business. 

What is a Google My Business Listing suspension?

Google My Business listing suspension is a Google-enforced measure designed to address the recent increase in the number of fraudulent listings. The primary aim of this suspension is to sift through potentially illegitimate businesses, ensuring that only genuine, trustworthy businesses are prominently displayed to users during their searches.

There is no need to be concerned if your company is legitimate; the process to resolve the suspension should be relatively simple. 

Understanding the different types of suspensions

Soft Suspension

 In a soft suspension, you lose control of your listing, but it still appears on Google Maps and Search as unowned. You cannot manage or edit the listing until it's reinstated.

These often-spammed categories are typically associated with Service Area Businesses (SABs) and encompass:

• Locksmiths.

• Lawyers.

• Plumbers.

• Pest control services.

• HVAC services.

  
  

Hard Suspension

A hard suspension involves the complete removal of your listing from Google Search and Maps. Your listing is no longer visible to users.

Suspended Pending Verification

This suspension occurs when Google requests additional verification of your business details. Your listing remains pending until verification is completed.

Suspended Due to Quality Issues

Quality issues can lead to suspension if your business information violates Google's guidelines. Your listing is hidden until compliance is achieved.

Suspended for Policy Violations

Violations of Google's policies, such as fake reviews or misleading content, can result in this suspension. Your listing is temporarily or permanently removed based on policy severity.

Common Causes of Google My Business Profile Suspensions

Violating Terms of Service

Failure to comply with Google My Business's terms of service for local businesses is a frequent cause of profile suspension.

Multiple Duplicate Listings

When Google detects several identical business listings, it may flag them as duplicates, leading to suspension.

Inaccurate or Outdated Information

Google may suspend your account if you provide incorrect or outdated business information.

Keyword Overload in Descriptions or Titles

Excessive use of keywords in your listing can confuse consumers and trigger an account suspension.

Offensive Language in Content or Photos

Utilizing offensive language in any form within your content or images can result in a suspension from Google.

Suspicion of Suspicious Activity

Suspicious activity associated with your Google My Business account can lead to a suspension.

Here are some other reasons why your Google Business listing gets suspended: 

• Sharing an address with another business. Establishing your listing at a virtual office or co-working space address

• Operating an online-only business.

• Being in a high-risk business category, such as lawyers, plumbers, HVAC, locksmiths, rehab centers, etc.

• Using a P.O. Box or UPS store address

• Adding a URL to your GMB profile that forwards/redirects to another website or links to a social media page

• Making multiple changes/edits to your GMB profile in a single session

• Inconsistencies between your address or hours on your GMB listing and what's listed on your website or other online business directories/citations

• Displaying a physical address for a service-area business

• Changing your listing from a Storefront to a Service Area Business (SAB)

• A manager on your listing has their account suspended, leading to the suspension of your listing.

• Listing your business hours as 24/7.

How to recover from a suspension 

If your Google business listing faces suspension, it's important to remain composed. Although having your listing removed from Google Maps and Search can be unsettling, there is a pathway to reinstatement by following Google's prescribed process. Here's Google's guidance on rectifying a suspended listing:

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

• Scrutinize your listing to ensure it aligns with these guidelines.

• Access your Google Business listing account.

• Once you are confident that your business listings conform to Google's guidelines and contain all necessary details, you can proceed to request reinstatement.

Submitting a Reinstatement Request

Once you've completed the aforementioned steps, it's time to take action and formally request reinstatement.

Patiently Awaiting a Response

While it's possible to receive a denial immediately, don't fret if you don't hear back from Google right away. This delay can be a positive sign. Be vigilant, keep an eye on your email, and regularly check your listing for any updates or changes in status.

Post-Reinstatement Edit Wait Period

After successfully regaining your listing, exercise patience. Wait for several days before making any edits to your listing to avoid the risk of another suspension.

What to Expect After Submitting Your Google My Business Reinstatement Request

Immediate Email Response (Preferred Scenario)

Upon submitting your reinstatement form, keep a close eye on your email inbox. Typically, you should receive an email from Google Specialists. In this email, note the case ID number mentioned in the subject line. This ID number will serve as a vital reference point in case you need to contact Google's support team.

Immediate Denial Notification (Serious Situation)

If you receive an immediate denial notification, it indicates a significant issue with your listing. In this case, it is imperative to contact a Google Specialist promptly to gain clarity on the situation. Do not attempt to submit additional reinstatement requests, as this will not improve the situation.

No Immediate Email Response

If you do not receive an automated email immediately after submitting your request, don't be alarmed. Google may not send further communication until your Business Profile is reinstated. Keep an eye on your inbox for an email notifying you of updates to your Google Listing; this will be your initial sign that your listing is back online. Alternatively, consider utilizing a service like Cloodot Google My Business Listings, which can monitor your Google My Business listing account status for you and provide timely updates.

What to Do If Your Request Is Denied

Receiving a denial can be frustrating, but don't lose hope just yet. Let's explore the steps to take when faced with this setback.

Step 1: Revisit the Guidelines

Take a moment to review Google's guidelines carefully. Ensure that your business listing aligns perfectly with these guidelines. This initial step is crucial to understanding and addressing the reasons behind the rejection. 

Step 2: Fake Listings and Address Considerations

If your business has a fake listing, it's typically best not to pursue reinstatement. However, if you're operating from a virtual office or a PO Box, consider the possibility of obtaining a genuine physical address. Keep in mind that the process for reinstatement in such cases can be complex, so it's advisable to seek advice before proceeding. This approach can increase your chances of not only reinstating your listing but also retaining your valuable reviews.

Step 3: Adjust Your Hours

A common issue we see is businesses displaying "24 hours" as their operating hours. It's advisable to set your business hours within a reasonable and accurate timeframe. This small but significant adjustment can improve your listing's credibility.

Step 4: Avoid Creating a New Listing

Under no circumstances should you create a new listing, even if Google suggests it. Doing so can result in the loss of your hard-earned ranking power and previous reviews. Patience is key in these situations. Wait for the reinstatement process to run its course.

Remember, you typically only have a limited number of reinstatement requests before encountering automated responses. Therefore, it's vital to make each attempt count and ensure your business listing complies with Google's guidelines.

How to prevent your Google Business Listing from getting suspended 

Certainly, here are some key points to help prevent a Google My Business suspension:

Accurate Business Information:

Ensure that all business details, including name, address, phone number, and website URL, are accurate and consistent across all online platforms.

Avoid Duplicate Listings:

Maintain a single, accurate listing for your business. Duplicate listings can confuse customers and violate Google's policies.

Regularly Update Information:

Keep your listing up-to-date with current business hours, services, and any changes in address or contact details.

Customer Reviews:

Encourage genuine customer reviews, but do not post fake reviews or engage in review manipulation.

Monitor for Unauthorized Changes:

Routinely check your Google My Business listing account for any unauthorized edits or changes and promptly rectify them.

Service Area Accuracy:

If you serve customers at their location, set a precise service area. Avoid overextending it to areas you do not cover.

Real Addresses:

If you operate a service-area business, avoid using virtual offices or P.O. boxes as your primary address unless it is your physical business location.

Image Guidelines:

Ensure that images associated with your business are authentic and comply with Google's image guidelines.

Respond to Customer Queries:

Promptly respond to customer questions and engage positively with user-generated content.

Consistent NAP Citations:

Ensure that your business's Name, Address, and Phone number (NAP) are consistent across the internet, including on your website and other online directories.

Regular Monitoring:

Continuously monitor your Google My Business listing account for any notifications or alerts from Google.

Avoid Violating Copyrights:

Do not use copyrighted material, such as images or content, without proper authorization.

Seek Expert Guidance:

If you're unsure about any aspect of your listing or have specific concerns, consider seeking advice from professionals who specialize in Google My Business optimization.

If you're looking to enhance your business's online visibility, Cloodot can provide valuable assistance. With Cloodot Listings, your business gains the advantage of a prominent online presence. You'll receive comprehensive, precise, and appealing listings on prominent business directories like Google, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and various other popular online platforms. This ensures that potential customers can effortlessly discover your business wherever they choose to search.

Join the ranks of over 100,000 businesses that rely on Cloodot to fuel their growth. Experience a free demo and arrange a conversation with one of Cloodot's product experts to learn more, or sign up with us to get a 7-day free trial.