Have you gotten a call in the middle of the day telling you that your Google Business Profile is at risk due to errors? For some business owners, that is a big deal. If the GBP stops working their phones stop ringing.
Scammers are looking for victims who are vulnerable to attack. People are most susceptible when they are pre-occupied. No wonder why America is a major focus for scamming efforts. We are a wealthy society that is starved for time. Perfect blend!
What Is A Google Business Profile?
Your Google Business Profile is a powerhouse that works for you 24/7. The GBP is a convenient resource. It lays out the most critical business info in a standardized way. No matter what company you want to learn about, their contact info and product/service offerings can be displayed prominently.
From a business profile, a prospective client can get directions to the business, call the company, visit their website, schedule appointments, and much more! It is fairly common for a small company to do more business from their profile than their website.
Identifying The Scams
Scammers call during business hours because they want you to be busy when you answer the call. They present a false problem. They will tell you that your profile has critical errors that need to be addressed right away. Naturally, they have the solution for you.
Here is the dilemma. Sometimes, GBPs need attention. Several conditions can affect your Google Profile. If someone suggests an edit, if you have outdated hours or contact information, or if Google thinks something does not follow their guidelines, your profile could be affected. Here are a few ways to stay one step ahead of the scammers.
Generic Greeting
When you answer the phone, they typically start with a hook; something to get your attention. "Your Google Business Profile is at risk." Then the person on the other side will often try to verify they are speaking to their target. They may ask if you are the "business owner." This is a red flag.
A decent response is to ask them which business they are referring to. If they do not know what business they are speaking to, how do they know there is a problem with your profile?
Don't Trust...and Verify
I let my teenage son know that I trust him, but I will also verify on occasion. When a stranger calls you, do not trust them, even if they know your business name. Fortunately, you can verify your Google Business Profile status. The first step is to Google your business from any account. If the profile pops up, you are not facing the worst-case scenario.
Secondly, look up your profile from a Google account that owns or manages the profile. If you do not have any warnings in the management console, you are likely in good shape.
Lastly, double-check your email. Google will email you directly if your profile needs attention. Make sure the email came from Google. Before clicking on any links in the email (even if it looks official), hover over the link/button WITHOUT clicking. The web address should show in the bottom left corner of your screen. If the domain is google.com, the link is likely safe and the message is likely legit.
Ask A Local GBP Expert
If you suspect that something is not quite right, you should trust your gut. Call a local Google Business Profile specialist. They are a valuable resource. Why work with someone local?
Google Reviews & References
When you look at their reviews, you will likely find someone you know who has worked with that local expert. Reach out to your friend and ask them about their experience. You can know for yourself that the review is legitimate.
Reputation Management
The local business wants to make a good name for themselves. Trust from the community is paramount to their success. If they can help you, they will. Depending upon the nature of your request, the GBP expert may not charge you. Fees are usually associated with how much time is needed to help.
Horizon Business Strategies is local to West Michigan, but we can help businesses anywhere in the US. If you don't want to click a link, give us a call. Our number is 616-206-7952. You will speak directly with a Google Business Profile expert.
If you live or work in the greater Grand Rapids area, let's grab coffee.
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