Shortcut To Success:
What NOT to do on Your Google Business Profile

by Brian Lawrence and Katherine Meikle

From duplicate profiles to a lack of engagement, there are a number of GBP missteps which could be easy to make yet surprisingly detrimental to your business. View the guidance below to see what NOT to do on your Google Business Profile, and for more DIY tips, check out this article on website and SEO resources that you can utilize to help your Google Business Profile presence and organic SEO as well.

• DUPLICATE LISTINGS
  There are a number of reasons why you may have a duplicate GBP profile without realizing – this causes confusion for Google that may result in suspension.
• NON-MATCHING CITATIONS
  Google constantly checks your listings across the web to see if all info is consistent. If other sites are different from your GBP, it will hurt your SEO
• MISSING ELEMENTS
  Not filling out every applicable part of your profile is a mistake. Google will give you a score based on the key elements you need to complete.
• IRRELEVANT INFORMATION
  Everything on your profile must be correct and relevant. For example, selecting 10 categories when only 2 apply is a red flag to Google and couples.
• LACK OF ENGAGEMENT
  Creating a strong profile on GBP is good, but it’s highly important to add new posts, photos and info over time. Don’t “set it and forget it”.
• TALKING TO GOOGLE, NOT VISITORS
  Don’t force an excessive amount of keywords to try to trick Google. Choose content that inspires viewers and lace-in words naturally.

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