Importance of Verifying Your Business

A close-up of a smartphone with Google Maps open displaying business information for a butcher in London - https://unsplash.com/photos/person-holding-black-smartphone-BJXAxQ1L7dI

Think your online business listing is just a fancy address card holding basic info that Google sometimes shows to users?

Think again - your search engine listing is your digital storefront, and the quality of such a listing is pretty much the make-or-break as to how people find your business, what they think of you, and how well you rank in the SERPs.

That means that the little "verified" badge you see on Google and Apple, well, that's not just for show. It's a signal to both new customers and search engines that your business is the real deal.

Trust me; search engines love trustworthy businesses.

Here's the deal: when someone searches for something like "best pizza near me," the top results are almost always going to be verified businesses.

Why?

Because Google wants to give people the best possible experience, and that means showing them reliable business information. Being verified proves the information is correct and there to bring value to your customer's lives.

So, if you're not verified yet, you're missing out on a major SEO boost. You could have the tastiest pizza in town, but no one will ever find out if your listing isn't popping up in search results.

Let's fix that with today's guide.

Decoding the Verification Mystery

A female small business owner on her smartphone keeping her Google listing up to date - https://unsplash.com/photos/woman-in-white-shirt-using-smartphone-FWVMhUa_wbY

Kicking things off, let's clear up any confusion about "listing verification." It's not as complicated as it sounds!

It's basically just proving to Google (or Apple, etc.) that your business is the real deal. Think of it like showing your ID at the door – proving you're legit.

Here's how it usually goes:

Show Your Papers: You might have to upload a document with your business name and address – a utility bill usually works.
Double-check the Business Details: Make sure your phone number, hours, etc. are all correct.
Claim Your Badge: Once everything's confirmed, boom! You get that little verified checkmark or other notice that you're all verified.

So, why bother with all this?

Trust Factor: A claimed, managed business profile listing tells people, "This business isn't some shady online thing; you can trust them." It shows you've jumped through the hoops, you've ticked all the boxes, and you've successfully been as proactive as possible in proving you're a legitimate company - a must for your SEO strategy.
Search Boost: Verified businesses tend to show up higher in search results. If you put two websites up that were precisely the same, except one was verified and the other wasn't, the verified one ranks highest. Every time. Therefore, getting verified puts you above all the other businesses that aren't.
You're in Control: You get to make sure your online business information is 100% accurate. While rare, if you haven't claimed your local business listings and profile, that means you're at the mercy of other claiming your business online profile or the search platforms automatically choosing the info to put out. If that's incorrect, like an old, now-unused phone number, that means a lot of lost business.

Basically, verification is like building a good reputation in the digital world. It shows both customers and search algorithms that you're a reliable, established business. And trust me, that goes a long way in the quest for online success.

The SEO Benefits of Verifying Your Digital Business Listing

A close up of a business owner using Google Search Console to check their Google Search stats after keeping their Google Business Profile up to date - https://unsplash.com/photos/person-using-macbook-air-on-white-table-VHXiGXxwOQ4

Put yourself in the shoes of your customer.

You're searching for a new dentist, plumber, or even a fun place to take the kids on the weekend. You see two listings: one with a verified badge and the other without.

One with.

One without.

Which one inspires more confidence?

For most people, that little nod of approval makes a big difference.

It's a subtle signal that this business isn't some shady online operation but a legitimate, established one. It's like seeing the Amazon Choice tag on Amazon. It's a little signal that has a big official psychological impact.

This trust factor is crucial for influencing customer decisions. People are more likely to not only click on your listing but also to call, visit your website, or make a purchase. A verified business profile increases credibility, directly impacting your bottom line.

Search Result Superstar: Climbing the Ranks

Let's be honest: no one wants to scroll through pages of Google results. And nobody does, with only 44% of searchers going to the second page of Google. Some research actually put this figure as low as 0.63%.

Therefore, we all want the best options right at the top, saving us time and showing us which businesses and sources of information are the top dog.

Verification plays a significant role in boosting your search ranking, hand in hand with SEO, local SEO, on-page SEO, mobile optimization, content marketing efforts, and so on.

Google and other search engines simply understand that people trust verified businesses more, so it's in their best interest to show those verified listings first, especially when someone's searching for something nearby ("Pizza near me").

Think of verification as giving your SEO a major power-up - an essential part of a complete digital marketing strategy.

It won't magically put you at #1 on every search, but it significantly increases your chance of showing up towards the top – which is where all the clicks (and customers) are.

Leveling Up Your Listing: It's Not Just a Pin on a Map

A Polish Google my business search as someone looks for the best business profile for their needs - https://unsplash.com/photos/person-holding-silver-iphone-6-lMcHm_tzR3I

Remember, your Google business listing is prime digital real estate, and if you can get onto the top of the results, you're going to be taking up so much screen space for internet users you'll be basically impossible to miss.

More eyes on your business means more clicks, which means more business. Verification lets you turn this digital space into a customer magnet. Here's how:

The Power of Reviews: Verified listings often get to display customer reviews right there in the search engine results. Positive reviews are like social proof, encouraging people to choose you.
Picture Perfect: Spice up your listing with photos of your storefront, your products, and even your friendly staff. This helps you stand out and gives people a better sense of who you are.
Open for Business: Keep your hours up-to-date, list holiday closures, and offer any other important info customers might need.

A bland listing is easily ignored. A verified listing with all the bells and whistles? That's how you grab attention and win clicks!

Take the Wheel: Own Your Online Narrative

Inaccurate information about your business floating around the internet is a recipe for disaster.

Outdated phone numbers, an old business location, and even incorrect business categories can seriously mislead potential customers.

Verification puts YOU in the driver's seat.

You can make changes quickly and easily, ensuring everything from your phone number to your business website link is always correct. This isn't just about convenience; it's about protecting your reputation and making sure customers can actually reach you.

Expert Tip: Think of verification as a long-term online reputation builder: Every positive customer review, every accurate detail on your listing, and every interaction with a customer through your business profile strengthens your online presence. That translates to trust from both customers and search engines, propelling your business towards continued online success.

How to Get Your Business Verified on Google and Apple

Okay, let's get actionable so by the end of this guide, you have your business verified on two of the top search engine platforms for business listings: Google Maps and Apple Maps.

Quite simply, Google Maps is the giant, with a general market share of 91.2%. It comes built-in on all modern Android smartphones. Chrome is the most popular web browser in the world, and yeah, everyone uses Google Maps (Waze is also owned by Google).

Secondly, Apple, for the same reason that everyone who has an iPhone, by default, has Apple Maps on their phone. Anybody searching for a zoo or a café can use these maps and search engines, and thus, they have an opportunity to see your business listing.

Let's break it down.

How to Get Verified on Google My Business

Getting your business verified on Google My Business (GMB) sounds way more complicated than it is.

An example of an unverified Google my business listing on Google Maps for a London nightclub

Think of getting your business page and Google Maps listing as your key to unlocking a ton of free marketing power (more online traffic) and getting to the top of the Google Search Results, especially when it comes to local listings).

However, first note that that the verified 'symbol' is very subtle on Google. There's no big tick or verified status, but it simply comes down to having the "Own this business?" option on the listing. Most people know that this means the business listing is unclaimed and, therefore, may not be reliable.

An example of a Google my Business listing in the Google search missing a lot of key information

For example, this nightclub in London. The Own this Business tag is available which means the Google My Business profile hasn't been claimed. Interestingly, this business is also the last one listed on the "clubs in London" keyword, far down on page eight of the results (which is where you'll find most unclaimed businesses).

Here's another example, another nightclub in London, with tons of business information missing, and the ability for everyday people to come and change the information of the listing, which you can never guarantee is going to be correct.

Alternatively, here's an example of a verified, or 'claimed' listing.

iPhone Repair in NYC. Filled out with all prominent GMB Profile content.

Can you see the difference?

There are so many more tabs outlining all the difference services available, there's no missing information whatsoever, potential customers can request a quote, the company's blog posts are displayed under 'Updates', and essentially anything a customer would need can be found in this business profile.

Let's get your business on the same page.

Note: Google offers a verification checker tool to help speed this process up. Head over to the checker tool here, making sure you're signed in with the email account your business would be registered under, and you'll be able to see all the businesses you have.

Step 1: Claim Your Spot

Head to Google My Business (https://www.google.com/business/) and sign in (or create an account if you don't have one).
Search for your business. Already listed? Awesome, click "Claim." If not, click "Add your business."
You can also search your business and see if a business listing already exists. If it does, you can click "Own this Business?" to start the same verification process.

Step 2: Pick Your Verification Method

To verify your business, Google needs you to prove you are who you are, and there are several ways to go about it.

Postcard Power: This is the most common way. Google sends a postcard with a special code to your business address. (Make sure your physical location is 100% accurate!)
Phone Fanatic: Some businesses can get a verification code by phone call – easy!
Email Enthusiast: Less common, but if this option pops up for you, go for it!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4y_vs_WxHlg

Step 3: Wait for Your Code

If you went the postcard route, it usually takes a few days (up to a week or two) to arrive. Keep an eye on your mailbox!

Step 4: Victory with Your Code!

Once you have your code, log back into Google Business Profile and find your Google listing.
Click "Verify now" and enter that magic code. Boom, you're official. You should start seeing changes in the local search results pretty quickly.

Expert Tip: While you're waiting for your code, start filling out your business profile with as much detail as possible: photos, business hours, business description, etc. The more complete your Google business profile, the better you'll look to potential customers. However, your edits won't typically appear until your business listings are verified.

And that's it! Now, go forth and conquer local search results!

How to Get Verified on Apple Maps

Someone sat at their desk using their computer and iPhone - https://unsplash.com/photos/woman-holding-silver-iphone-6-SpVHcbuKi6E

If you want people with iPhones to be able to find your business, you need to be verified on Apple Maps. Good news: it's super simple!

Here's your step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Apple Maps Connect is Your Friend

Go to Apple Business Connect (https://businessconnect.apple.com/) and sign in with your Apple ID (you can create one if you need to).
Search for your business name. Is it there? Great, you can skip to the verification part. If not, click "Add my business."

Step 2: Start the Verification Party

Apple loves to keep things simple, so they mainly verify businesses by phone. Click the option to verify by phone, and make sure you can answer a call at the number you provide.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZdZl5spwXc

Step 3: Your PIN is Your Ticket

Keep an eye on your phone! Apple will call you with a special verification PIN (kind of like a secret code).
Write down that PIN, then log back into Apple Maps Connect and enter it.

And... You're Done! Now, when people search for businesses like yours on their iPhones, you'll pop right up.

Expert Tip: Just like with Google, don't waste the time you're waiting for verification. Update your listing on Apple Maps with business photos, a great description, and anything else that will make customers want to check you out.

Conclusion

Okay, let's recap: verifying your business isn't some boring technical thing. It's a game-changer for your online visibility. And guess what? The process is surprisingly easy! A few clicks, maybe a postcard, and you're ready to reap the rewards.

Think of verification as a secret weapon even if you don't have a physical store. It shows the world that you're a serious business, ready to be found by the right customers.

So, what are you waiting for?

If you still need to verify your business, today's the day! It's one of the smartest investments you can make in your online success.

Need help getting started? Looking for a larger boost for your SEO? Need help making the most of your Google analytics?

Let's chat! I can help you navigate the verification process and take your SEO to the next level.

Contact me here at ML SEO, and let's get your business where it needs to be online.