You’ve set up your business, maybe even launched a great-looking website, but when you Google yourself, nothing shows up. Frustrating, right? One of the most common questions we get from small business owners is: Why is my business not showing up on Google?
The truth is, it could be a few different things. Google has its own rules, systems, and quirks, and missing just one detail can keep your business out of search results or off Google Maps. But don’t worry. We’ll walk you through everything step-by-step so you can finally show up where your customers are searching. Let’s get into it.
Why Is My Business Not Showing up on Google?
This is a super common problem, especially for newer businesses or anyone who hasn’t fully optimized their online presence. Your business might not be showing up on Google for a few reasons: maybe your profile isn’t verified, your website isn’t indexed, or your info just isn’t clear enough for Google’s algorithm. Whatever the reason, don’t stress! We’ve got the fixes you need right here to get your business on Google.
Your Google Business Profile Isn’t Verified
This is probably the number one reason your business is not showing up on Google. If you created a Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) but didn’t verify it, Google won’t show it publicly. Verification is how Google confirms you’re the legit owner of your business.
What to Do:
Log in to your Google Business Profile Manager and check the verification status. If it’s not verified, follow the prompts. They’ll usually send you a postcard or allow phone or email verification, depending on your setup.
Learn more about how to connect your website to Google Search Console.
Your Business Info Is Incomplete or Inaccurate
Google cares about the basics. If your name, address, or phone number (NAP) is wrong or missing, your business profile might not show up on Google. Consistency is everything. Google checks your info against what’s out there on the web.
What to Do:
Make sure your business name, address, and phone number are consistent everywhere: your website, social profiles, online directories, and your Google listing. Also, double-check that you selected the right business category. If you’re a digital marketing agency but choose “Web Hosting” as your category, you’re sending mixed signals.
You Chose the Wrong Categories
Speaking of categories, if your business is listed under the wrong type, Google might not show it in the right searches or even at all. For example, let’s say you own a photography studio but picked “Event Planning” as your category. Google’s algorithm won’t know where to place you.
What to Do:
Go back into your profile settings and update your primary and secondary categories to reflect what you actually do.
You Have No Reviews or Engagement
Another big reason your Google business is not showing up on search or Maps is that there’s no activity on your listing. Google favours businesses with recent reviews, updates, photos, and user interactions.
What to Do:
Start asking customers to leave reviews. Send them a direct link to make it easy. Also, upload some fresh photos, respond to reviews, and post short updates to your profile regularly. If you’ve been wondering why your reviews are not showing on Google My Business, it could be because they’re flagged as spam or contain restricted content. Encourage real reviews from actual customers. Google filters out fake or overly promotional ones.
Google prefers physical business locations. If your address is tied to a coworking space, P.O. box, or virtual office, your Google business might not be showing on map because the address doesn’t meet their guidelines.
What to Do:
Use a real, physical address tied directly to your business. If you’re working from home, make sure your profile is set to “Service Area Business” and hide your exact location.
Your Website or Photos Aren’t Approved
Sometimes, it’s not your listing that’s the problem. It’s the stuff attached to it. If your website is not approved on your Google Business Profile, or if your photos are not approved on Google Business, that can hurt your visibility.
What to Do:
Check your Google Business Profile dashboard for alerts. If your site or images were rejected, Google should tell you why. Most of the time, it’s due to violating content policies or technical issues, like your website being flagged as unsafe.
You’re Not Optimized for Local SEO
This is the long game. Even if you’ve done everything “right,” your business not showing up on Google Maps or search might come down to weak SEO. If your competitors have better content, more reviews, or stronger backlinks, they’ll beat you out.
What to Do:
Make sure your site mentions your business name and location clearly on the homepage. Add local keywords to your page titles and headings. Use phrases like “web design in Hamilton” or “coffee shop near Locke Street.” If you’re in the game for long-term results, you’ll want to invest in professional local SEO. If you need help with digital marketing in Hamilton, that’s our jam.
Final Thoughts on Why a Business Doesn’t Show up on Google
If you’re still wondering why your business is not showing up on Google, take a deep breath. It happens to more businesses than you think. Whether it’s an unverified listing, a misstep in your SEO, or a lack of customer engagement, most of these issues are totally fixable.
The key is to keep things consistent, stay active on your Google Business Profile, and make sure your website is doing its part too. And if you’re stuck or just want a pro to take care of it, HeyTony’s always here to help you get found, fast.
If you’re ready to optimize your business for real SEO results, contact us at HeyTony or check out more actionable tips on our blog!
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