How to Go Through Video Verification with Google My Business

Getting your business verified on Google may suddenly require a video, and it can feel a little intimidating. This guide cuts through the confusion, showing you exactly how to prepare, film, and submit your video verification successfully. We'll walk you through every step so you can get your Google Business Profile live and working for you without the stress.

Why Does Google Ask for Video Verification?

If you're wondering why Google switched from the classic postcard-in-the-mail method, the answer is simple: to fight spam and protect legitimate businesses. Fake listings and map spam have been a persistent issue on Google Maps, hurting both real businesses and consumers. Video verification is a much more robust way for Google to confirm that your business is a real, physical operation at the location you claim.

While an algorithm might flag your business for video verification, it isn't a bad thing. It's an opportunity to prove your legitimacy quickly. Instead of waiting days for a postcard that might get lost, you can often complete the video process in under an hour and get reviewed within a few business days. It’s Google’s way of prioritizing businesses that can provide clear, undeniable proof of their existence.

Is Video the Only Option?

For most new businesses, or businesses making significant changes to their profile (like an address change), video verification has become the standard. Sometimes Google may offer other options like postcard, email, or phone verification, but increasingly, they rely on video for its reliability. If you’re only presented with the video option, there’s no way around it. The best path forward is to prepare properly and record a video that meets all of Google's criteria on your first attempt.

Before You Press Record: How to Prepare for a Perfect Verification Video

Success with Google's video verification is all about preparation. Taking 15-20 minutes to gather everything you need before you start recording will make the process smooth and drastically increase your chances of a first-try approval. Your goal is to create one single, continuous video that leaves no doubt your business is real. Here’s what you need to have ready.

1. Gather Your Proof of Business Documents

Have physical copies of official documents on hand and ready to be shown clearly in the video. You won’t need all of these, but having them available gives you options.

• Business License or Registration: Any official government-issued document that clearly shows your business name and address is gold.
• Utility Bills: A recent gas, electric, water, or internet bill with the same business name and service address is excellent proof. Make sure the name and address are identical to what's on your Business Profile.
• Lease or Deed: Showing the official paperwork for your commercial space serves as strong proof of location.

2. Prep Your Location and Tools

Walk through what you plan to film. Google wants to see physical proof that a business operates at your address. This is about showing, not just telling.

• Permanent Signage: This is a big one. Taping a piece of computer paper to the door won't work. Google wants to see a permanent, professional sign on the outside of your building or inside your lobby.
• Keys to the Premises: One of the easiest ways to prove you manage the business is to film yourself unlocking the front door. Have your keys ready.
• Business Interior: The space should look like a business. Show your workspaces, front counter, inventory, branded marketing materials (like brochures or business cards), or any tools of your trade.
• For Service Area Businesses (SABs): If you don't have a public-facing storefront (like a plumber or a home-based consultant), your approach is slightly different. Focus on:
  • Branded Work Vehicle: A van or car with your company logo and lettering is powerful evidence.
  • Tools and Equipment: Showcase the specific tools you use for your service.
  • Home Office: Film your dedicated workspace. This can be a desk with a computer, along with your business license or utility bills for that home address laid out clearly.

3. Check Your Tech

Technical glitches can get your video rejected just as fast as missing proof. Do a quick tech check before you begin.

• Use Your Smartphone: Verification can only be done on a mobile device through the Google Maps app or browser. You can't upload a pre-recorded video from a computer.
• Good Lighting: Film during the day if possible. Make sure signs, documents, and your workspace are clearly visible, not covered in shadow or glare.
• Clear Audio: Minimize background noise. You will be asked to briefly narrate what you are showing, so make sure your voice can be heard.
• Stable Internet Connection: You’ll need to upload the video, so ensure you have a strong Wi-Fi or cellular connection.

Step-by-Step: How to Film Your Google Business Verification Video

Once you’re prepared, the actual filming process is straightforward. Remember the key rule: record in one continuous, uncut shot. Hitting the pause or stop button and restarting will likely result in a rejection. The entire video only needs to be 1-2 minutes long.

Step 1: Start the Process

On your mobile device, open your Google Business Profile Manager or the Google Maps app and tap the prompt to verify your business. When you select the video verification option, the in-app camera will open. Follow the on-screen prompts, which will outline exactly what you need to show.

Step 2: Start Filming Outside

• Capture Your Location: Begin your video on the street outside your business. If possible, show the street sign and the number on your building. Narrate what you are showing: "This is a view of my business located at 123 Main Street."
• Show Your Signage: Walk from the street toward your entrance, making sure to get a clear, steady shot of your permanent business sign. This could be on the building exterior, a lawn sign, or on your window or door.

Step 3: Enter the Business and Show Proof of Management

• Unlock the Door: Film yourself using your key to unlock the front door and enter the building. This is a simple but effective way to demonstrate that you have operational control of the space.
• Show "Employees Only" Areas (Optional): If you have a back office, stock room, or any employee-only section, quickly showing you have access further solidifies your position as the manager.

Step 4: Film the Interior and Business-Specific Items

• Pan Around Your Workspace: Once inside, do a slow, 360-degree pan of the area. Show the environment where you work. This could be your retail floor, office desks, service counter, warehouse, or workshop.
• Highlight Proof of Operations: As you pan, zoom in on items that prove you're an active business. Show your point-of-sale system, any branded products or marketing materials, specialty equipment you use, and finally, lay those prepared documents (like your business license or a utility bill) flat on a counter and hold the camera steady over them for a few seconds.

Step 5: Upload the Video

Once you've captured everything in one take, hit the stop button. You'll be given a chance to review the video. If it's clear and meets all the criteria, press "Upload." And that’s it - your video is now with Google for review.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many rejections are caused by simple, avoidable errors. Be sure to avoid these common pitfalls:

• Shaky or Blurry Footage: Move slowly and deliberately. If your video is unwatchable, it will be rejected.
• Not Using One Continuous Take: Editing clips together or pausing is an immediate red flag. It must be shot in one go.
• Poor Lighting: Don't film at night or in a dimly lit room. Your signage and documents need to be perfectly legible.
• Hiding Your Address: Failing to show the street sign or building number is incomplete proof of location.
• Temporary Signage: A hand-written sign or a piece of paper taped to the window looks suspicious. Google needs to see something permanent.
• No Narration: While you don't need to give a long speech, saying nothing can be confusing. Simply state what you are showing as you film it.

What Happens Next (And How to Handle a Denial)

After you upload your video, the waiting game begins.

• Review Time: This typically takes up to 5 business days, although it can sometimes be faster or slower depending on volume. You'll receive an email notification once a decision is made.
• If You're Approved: Congratulations! Your Google Business Profile will be fully live and visible on Maps and Search. You can now edit your hours, respond to reviews, and post updates.
• If You're Denied: Don't panic. You will receive an email stating the verification failed. While it might not give a specific reason, it usually comes down to one of the common mistakes mentioned above. The email will provide a link to appeal the decision.

If you need to appeal, first review your original video and see where you might have fallen short. Often, just re-filming with more attention to detail - showcasing your permanent sign more clearly or making your address more visible - is all it takes. In some cases, a denial might prompt Google to offer a live video call with a support representative, where you'll walk them through the same steps in real time.

Final Thoughts

Going through Google's video verification can feel like a test, but it's a straightforward process designed to prove what you already know: your business is real. By preparing your location and documents ahead of time and filming a single, clear video that shows your address, signage, and workspace, you can sail through the process and get your profile live.

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