What Do I Do if My Google Listing Got Suspended?
You logged into your Google My Business account only to discover that your GMB listing has been suspended. You have no idea why. You have no idea how to fix it.
Luckily, that’s why we’re here! Read on to learn how to reinstate your listing quickly, why Google suspended it, and what you can do to avoid future suspensions.
Why Was My GMB Listing Suspended?
Most people discover that their listing has been suspended after logging into their Google account and seeing the message, “Your listing has been suspended due to quality issues.”
What this message means, essentially, is that Google has detected or senses that you’re not playing by their strict rules. The reason for suspension could be related to a possible policy violation, oddly suspicious activity, or other ‘red flags’.
Often these issues are related to:
- Issues with your business address
- Spammy marketing tactics
- Prohibited content
- Multiple listings for same business/location
How Do I Reinstate My Google Listing?
The first thing you should do when your listing is suspended is submit a Google single reinstatement request form. This simple form will give Google most of the information they need. It may take 1-3 weeks for Google to reinstate your listing.
In some cases, they might request some additional information for further verification before they remove the suspension. Google wants proof not only that your business is real, but that it’s really located where you say it is.
We suggest preparing for this by taking photos of your storefront, signage, business license, and any other items and documents that might confirm the location and legitimacy of your business. The sooner you can get these documents to Google, the faster the whole process will go!
One last tip: Be patient. It is tempting to send multiple Reinstatement Request forms to Google, but this can be a mark against you. Trying to rush this process raises some serious red flags in the Google camp!
What Would a Suspended Listing Mean for My Business?
When your GMB listing is suspended, no one can find it in Google and Google Maps search results. That means no new leads, appointments, bookings, walk-ins, or calls from Google searches. As a business owner, you need to get it reinstated as fast as possible!
How to Avoid Getting Your GMB Listing Suspended Again
Dealing with a suspension once is bad enough—no one wants to deal with it a second time!
Here are some tips on how to avoid a suspension in the future:
- Follow the Google My Business guidelines very, very carefully—and don’t forget to check back for updates!
- Never create multiple listings for one business and/or location. Before you ever make a listing, carefully comb through Google to make sure a colleague hasn’t already made a listing for you.
- Use consistent NAP (Name, Address, and Phone Number) data all over the internet, from your Yellow Pages listing to your website and GMB.
- If your business has a physical location always display clear and accurate signage.
Have you had to deal with a suspended listing before? What did the reinstatement process look like for you? Let us know in the comment section below!
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