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Why Isn’t Your Business Showing Up on Google Maps? (And How to Fix It)

Updated: Aug 16



If your business isn’t appearing on Google Maps, several factors could be at play—ranging from an unverified profile and inaccurate information to more serious issues like suspension. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common problems and exactly how to resolve them, so your business can gain visibility and thrive in local search results.


1. The Importance of Verifying Your Google Business Profile

One of the most common reasons your business doesn’t show up is a lack of verification. An unverified Google Business Profile dramatically reduces your chances of appearing in search results or on Google Maps.

Why Verification Matters

  • It confirms the legitimacy of your business.

  • It boosts customer trust and confidence.

  • It ensures your listing is eligible to appear in local search results and Google Maps.

How to Verify Your Profile

Google offers several verification methods:

  • Postcard: A code is mailed to your business address (may take up to 2 weeks).

  • Phone or Email: Quicker options if available for your account.

  • Google Search Console: If your website is already verified here, you might qualify for instant verification.

Finalizing verification improves both visibility and credibility in local search.

2. Keeping Your Business Information Accurate

Accurate and up-to-date information is critical for search visibility and customer trust.

NAP Consistency

Ensure your Name, Address, and Phone Number (NAP) are consistent across all online listings. Inconsistencies can confuse customers and harm your ranking.

Update Business Hours

Always keep your operating hours current—especially during holidays or seasonal changes—to avoid frustrating potential customers.

3. Watch for Suspensions and Profile Inactivity

A suspended Google Business Profile won’t appear in search or map results. Suspensions often stem from:

  • Inaccurate business details

  • Frequent or suspicious changes

  • Violations of Google’s guidelines

What to Do If Suspended

  • Contact Google Support promptly.

  • Review and correct any non-compliance issues.

  • Submit required documentation for reinstatement.

Once reinstated, your business will return to Maps, Search, and the Local Pack.

4. Optimize Your Profile for Maximum Visibility

An incomplete profile can make your business appear inactive. Take time to fill in every field and update it regularly.

Include:

  • Business hours and services

  • Categories and attributes

  • High-quality photos

  • Google Posts (updates, offers, events)

  • FAQ section

Add High-Quality Images

Visual content increases engagement and trust. Include:

  • Interior and exterior shots

  • Product photos

  • Team or service-in-action images

5. Write a Strong Business Description

Craft a compelling description that:

  • Shares your brand story and values

  • Highlights key services

  • Includes relevant local keywords

Avoid keyword stuffing, but be intentional with your location-based terms to enhance local search visibility.

6. Choose the Right Business Categories

Choosing accurate and relevant categories helps Google align your profile with user search intent.

Pro Tips:

  • Use your primary category to reflect your core offering.

  • Add secondary categories only if they align directly with your services.

  • Avoid unrelated categories—they confuse both users and search engines.

7. Build and Manage Customer Reviews

Encouraging Reviews

  • Provide great service and ask satisfied customers to leave reviews.

  • Avoid fake reviews—authenticity builds trust and credibility.

Responding to Reviews

  • Always reply to feedback—positive or negative.

  • Engagement signals to Google that your business is active and trustworthy.

Why It Matters

Google prioritizes businesses with more reviews. Engaged, reviewed listings rank higher and attract more customers.

8. Understand Local Ranking Factors: Proximity and Location

Google prioritizes businesses that are physically closer to the user’s location.

Address Accuracy

Ensure your business address is:

  • Correct and up-to-date

  • Properly formatted

  • Includes suite numbers, especially in shared office spaces

Defining Service Areas

If you don’t have a storefront:

  • Set your business as a “Service Area Business” in Google

  • Specify the regions you serve to boost local visibility

Shared Office Space Tip:

Use unique identifiers (like suite numbers) to distinguish your business. This helps Google avoid confusion and ensures proper listing visibility.

9. Handle Recent Address Changes Carefully

If you’ve moved locations recently:

  • Update your profile and verify the change.

  • Use postcard, phone, or email verification methods as required.

  • Be patient—updates can take up to three days to reflect, and sometimes longer depending on verification.

10. Optimize Your Website Experience

Your website’s quality directly affects your ranking on Google Maps.

What Hurts:

  • Slow loading times

  • Poor mobile experience

  • Outdated or incomplete content

  • Broken links

What Helps:

  • Mobile optimization: Most local searches happen on phones.

  • Fast site speed: Boosts engagement and conversion.

  • Fresh content: Regular blog posts or updates signal activity.

Use tools like Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test to evaluate your site and make necessary improvements.

Summary

To ensure your business shows up on Google Maps:

  • Verify your Google Business Profile

  • Maintain accurate and consistent information

  • Update your profile regularly

  • Engage with reviews

  • Optimize your website

  • Stay compliant with Google’s guidelines

By following these best practices, your business will become more discoverable, competitive, and attractive to local customers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why isn’t my business appearing on Google Maps?Your listing may be unverified, suspended, or have incorrect/incomplete information. Verifying and updating your profile usually resolves this.

How do I verify my Google Business Profile?Choose from postcard, phone, email, or instant verification through Google Search Console.

What happens if my Google Business Profile is suspended?Contact Google Support and follow their reinstatement process. Ensure your information is accurate and complies with guidelines.

How can I get more reviews?Deliver exceptional service, then ask happy customers to leave reviews. Avoid incentivizing or faking reviews.

How does mobile optimization help my local visibility?A mobile-friendly, fast-loading website improves the user experience and helps boost your business’s local search ranking.


 
 
 

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