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Do you want more local ( and potentially loyal) customers to find you? Then your Google Business Profile video verification is a must. It’s Google’s way of confirming your business is a legitimate entity.
But mess up the process, and you’re back to square one—no profile, visibility, or leads.
In this guide, we’ll discuss video verification best practices so you can pass the process the first time.
Google Business Profile Video Verification Best Practices: TL;DR
- Google requires a clear, unedited video showing your business location, signage, and daily operations.
- Keep it steady and well-lit, use natural light or proper indoor lighting.
- Show essential details like a storefront, interior, and official business name.
- Avoid excessive editing. Google wants an authentic, real-time view.
- Common reasons for failure: blurry footage, missing signage, or incorrect format.
- The verification video should be under 5 minutes and in MP4 or MOV format.
- Follow video verification best practices to speed up approval and boost local SEO.
Understanding Google’s Video Verification Requirements
Before you hit record, let’s talk about Google Business Profile video verification requirements. Google has a checklist, and you’ll want to check every box.
Google’s Guidelines
Google expects a clear, unedited video that proves your business is legit.
- Show your storefront, signage, and business location. If it’s inside a mall, capture nearby landmarks.
- Walk inside. Highlight the interior, workspaces, and inventory—whatever makes sense for your business.
- Capture real operations. This could be employees helping customers, food being prepped, or products being packed.
Why Compliance Matters
A successful GBP video verification helps your business show up in local searches faster. Mess it up, and you could get flagged for review. That’s bad for business. Plus, a well-done video reassures customers that you’re real, not some sketchy, one-star wonder.
For the full rulebook, check Google’s official guidelines.
Preparing for Your Video Verification
Now that you know what Google wants, let’s make sure your video looks polished and up to Google standards.
Pre-Recording Checklist
- Environment: Clean up! A clutter-free, well-lit space makes a better impression.
- Equipment: Use a decent smartphone or camera. A tripod helps avoid motion sickness.
- Script/Plan: Know what you’re showing. Start with your storefront, move inside, and highlight key areas.
Technical Preparation
- Audio matters: Background noise can ruin a great video. Film when it’s quiet.
- Use the right format: MP4 or MOV is best. Google likes those.
Best Practices for Recording Your Video
A bad video can delay your Google Business Profile video verification. A good one means smooth sailing. Here’s how to nail it.
High-Quality Video Production
- Focus and Clarity: Make sure your camera lens is clean and sharp. Blurry footage won’t cut it.
- Steady Footage: Shaky video looks unprofessional. Use a tripod or place your phone on a stable surface.
- Lighting Matters: Natural light is best. When indoors, use bright and even lighting.
Content Guidelines
- Introduction: Say who you are and what your business does. Keep it short.
- Showcase Your Business: Walk through your storefront, workspaces, or service areas. Highlight key features.
- Display Essential Info: Show your business name, address, and signage. If needed, hold up official documents.
- Keep it Authentic: No fancy Snapchat or Instagram-grade edits needed. Google wants a raw, real look at your business.
Follow these video verification best practices, and your GBP video verification should go off without a hitch.
Why Video Verification Might Fail and What to Do
Even the best businesses can run into trouble. Here’s what can go wrong—and how to fix it.
Common Reasons for Failure
- Blurry or shaky footage: Google needs a clear view of your business.
- Missing key details: Didn’t show signage or the full location? Try again.
- Poor lighting: If Google can’t see it, or if the video appears slightly blurry or is shot in poor lighting, it won’t be verified.
- Overly edited video: Keep it simple. No fancy cut and join or effects.
What to Do Next
- Re-record with better lighting, focus, and stability.
- Double-check Google’s guidelines and capture all required details.
- Upload in the right format (MP4 or MOV).
Fix the issues, resubmit, and you’ll be verified in no time.
Also Read: Top 20 Google My Business Management Tools for Agencies
Summing Up
A successful Google Business Profile video verification requires clarity, stability, and authenticity. Show your storefront, interior, and signage. Keep it real without heavy editing. Follow our video verification best practices, and you’ll get verified faster.
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Google Business Profile Video Verification Best Practices: FAQs
What are the video guidelines for Google Business Profile?
Google wants an unedited, real-time video that proves your business exists and operates at the listed location. Your video should clearly show your storefront, any permanent signage, and the inside of your business, including workspaces, equipment, or inventory. It should also capture daily operations—staff working, customers visiting, or products being handled.
How do I bypass Google Business Profile video verification?
You can’t. Google uses video verification to weed out fake listings, so there’s no way around it. If video verification isn’t an option, Google may offer alternatives like postcard, phone, or email verification.
How long should a Google verification video be?
Google recommends keeping it under five minutes, but shorter is better. Think of it as a quick business tour, clear, simple, and to the point.
