The bottom line: Google is simplifying the guidelines for its Business Profile (GBP) platform, outlining clearer rules on what can lead to restrictions or suspensions of these profiles, according to an email sent to all GBP managers.

Why it matters: Google’s more explicit rules provide a clearer roadmap for businesses using the GBP platform, reducing the risk of unintentional violations that could lead to suspensions or restrictions.

Details:

• Account-level restrictions: Google has clarified reasons for restricting or suspending a GBP, including a merchant’s Google account not being in “good standing,” repeated violations of GBP policies, or suspensions due to non-Business Profile violations.

• Eligibility and ownership: A business must make in-person contact with customers during its stated hours to qualify for a GBP. Google has explicitly stated ineligible businesses, such as ongoing services at locations not owned or represented by the business, lead generation agents, online-only businesses, and rental or for-sale properties.

• Posting restrictions: Google re-emphasizes the importance of adhering to their prohibited and restricted content policies and posting restrictions.

The big picture: While the update may seem minor, it’s a significant step in terms of Google’s transparency regarding GBP guidelines. It’s crucial for businesses to familiarize themselves with these new policies to avoid risking suspension or restriction.

For a detailed overview of the new policies, users can visit the provided page in the “We’re simplifying our policies and guidelines” email.

Full Article:

On July 31st, Google sent out an email to all Google Business Profile (GBP) managers announcing the introduction of new policies and guidelines, including a more transparent list of violations that could result in the restriction or suspension of GBPs.

The email, titled “We’re simplifying our policies and guidelines,” directs users to a page that provides an overview of key policies and highlights the most common issues that merchants might face. While this content is some of the most detailed Google has offered on this subject, it’s still not comprehensive and readers are advised to visit their page on all GBP policies and guidelines.

In this update, Google has laid out account-level restrictions, eligibility criteria, ownership rules, posting restrictions, and reasons for rejection or non-publication of submitted content. It’s essential for merchants to be aware of these changes to avoid risking suspension or restriction of their GBP.

Some critical account-level restrictions to note include the need for a merchant’s Google account to be in “good standing,” the risk of restriction for repeated violations of GBP policies, and the possibility of suspension due to non-Business Profile violations. It’s important for merchants to ensure that both their GBP and the associated Google account comply with these guidelines.

Google’s updated policies also clarify eligibility and ownership issues. To qualify for a Business Profile on Google, a business must have in-person contact with customers during its stated hours. Some examples of ineligible businesses include ongoing services, classes, or meetings at locations the business does not own or have the authority to represent, lead generation agents or companies, brands, organizations, artists, and other online-only businesses, and rental or for-sale properties like vacation homes or vacant apartments. For a detailed review of eligibility and ownership, visit the Business eligibility & ownership page.

Finally, Google has reiterated the significance of adhering to their prohibited and restricted content policies and posting restrictions.

Although this update might seem minor, it represents a substantial improvement in Google’s transparency regarding guidelines. It is crucial for GBP managers to familiarize themselves with these new policies and their implications to ensure smooth operation of their GBP.