To verify by video, you film in one take with your phone: the surroundings of your address, your company name on a permanent sign and proof that you belong there, such as unlocking the door. The most common reason for a rejection is a profile name that does not match the sign.
You have created your Google Business Profile, and instead of a postcard or a code by SMS, Google asks for a video. Many businesses are then at a loss: What should you film, for how long, and why was the first video rejected?
Here I explain step by step what Google wants to see, how to prepare and what to do if it does not work the first time.
Why Google asks for a video
Google wants to make sure that your business really exists, that it is at the stated address and that you are entitled to manage the profile. In the past a postcard with a code was used for this. Today Google chooses the method itself, depending on the industry, the address and what Google already knows about you. Possible methods are a call, SMS, email, instant verification or, indeed, a video.
Which methods you get is not something you can influence. If only the video is offered, there is no way around it.
What Google wants to see in the video
Google specifies three things for the recording. All three have to appear in the video:
- Where you are: the surroundings from outside, for example the street sign, the house number, neighbouring shops or a striking building nearby.
- That the business exists: your company name on a permanent sign, lettering at the entrance or on the company vehicle. A printed sheet of paper on the door is usually not enough.
- That you belong there: something only authorised people can do, such as unlocking the door, going behind the counter, opening the till, showing tools and equipment in the storeroom.
How to prepare
- Check the name: The name in the profile must read exactly as on your sign. A profile name like “Smith Painting, cheap painter Ludwigsburg” does not match a sign saying “Smith Painting” and is one of the most common reasons for a rejection.
- Check the address: Street, house number and postcode must match exactly the place where you are filming.
- Plan your route: Think about the order beforehand. Street, sign, entrance, unlocking, showing the inside. Then you do not have to improvise.
- Charge your phone and check your connection: The video is recorded and uploaded directly in the app, which needs battery and a stable connection.
- Use daylight: Signs must be legible. In the evening or against the light that gets difficult.
Recording it step by step
- On your phone, open the Google Maps app or Google Search and your business profile there. It does not work on a computer.
- Tap “Verify” and choose the video option. The app shows you the requirements once more.
- Start recording outside: street sign or house number, then the surroundings with a slow pan.
- Go to the entrance and film your company sign so that the name is easy to read.
- Unlock the door or show something only you can do as the owner.
- Briefly show the rooms, the equipment or your tools.
- End the recording and upload it straight away.
Tip: Film in one take, without cuts, music or filters. Hold the phone steady and move slowly. You do not need more than a few minutes. Strangers, customer data or bank documents should not be in the picture.
Without a shop: tradespeople and on-site service providers
Many businesses work at the customer's premises and have no shop window. Video verification still works. Show the surroundings of your business address, your lettered company vehicle, tools and materials and, for example, work clothing or documents with your company name. It is important that you enter a service area in the profile and hide the address if customers do not come to you.
Rejected: what now?
The check usually takes a few working days. If the video is rejected, Google rarely gives the exact reason. Then go through these points:
- Does the name in the profile match the sign exactly?
- Was the sign permanently fixed and easy to read?
- Were all three parts in the video: surroundings, sign, authorisation?
- Does the category match what can be seen in the video?
Correct whatever does not fit and record the video again. If that does not help either, you can contact Google support via the help in the business profile. There you can often submit additional proof, such as your trade registration or an invoice with your business address.
After verification
Once the profile is verified, it becomes publicly visible and you can edit everything. Now it is worth filling in the profile completely. I show how in my guide to the Google Business Profile. Note: Major changes to name, address or category can trigger a new verification later. So only change these details if it is really necessary.
If you get stuck with verification, I am happy to look at your profile with you. What I take on around the Google Business Profile for businesses is on my services page.
Stefanos Svarnas, Knusperholz in Ludwigsburg. I build websites and make sure businesses get found on Google. Personally, without agency detours.
