Video verification is Google’s answer to the need to increase the authenticity of information about companies visible in Google Maps. It aims to eliminate fake business cards and protect users from fraud. In addition, video gives companies a chance to prove their presence in the market and their compliance with the provided data.
Many businesses are concerned that video verification will violate their privacy or require them to show inappropriate content, such as home interiors. Google, however, is clear about what to include in the video – just capture elements related to the business, such as signs, equipment or where services are provided. There is no need to reveal confidential data or show private spaces. Proper preparation eliminates the risk of errors and makes it easier to pass verification.
What is Google My Business video verification?
Google My Business video verification is the process of confirming a company’s authenticity with a short video that shows key information about its business. This is done to ensure that the business in question actually exists and operates according to the information provided in the business card.
- Verification process:
This involves the recording of a video by the business owner that shows the location, equipment or activities related to the business. The video should be uploaded through the company’s profile on the Google app. The video should be continuous, between 30 seconds and 5 minutes long, and meet specific requirements, such as no editing or private elements.
- Types of companies covered by this method:
Google allows video verification for three types of companies. Stationery businesses must show their location, such as a storefront or signboard. Hybrid ones – such as delivery restaurants – should show both location and evidence of mobile operations. Conversely, companies operating in a specific area, such as plumbers, present advertising materials, equipment or other items that prove their presence in the market.
The most common concerns about video verification
“Do I have to show my house if the company is registered there?”
No, Google does not require you to show the inside of your home. If your business is registered at a home address, you can focus on showing evidence of your business, such as company equipment, signage or documents, without revealing private details.
“What if I don’t have a physical office or store?”
If you operate in a specific area and don’t have a permanent customer location, you only need to show items related to your business, such as a vehicle with a company logo, promotional materials or equipment used to provide services.
“Does recording a video violate my privacy?”
Google is concerned about privacy and requires that verification videos do not contain personal information, people’s faces or sensitive information. Stick to the guidelines and your video will be privacy-compliant.
What should be included in the video depending on the type of company?
- Stationary businesses:
For stationery businesses, show the location’s surroundings, such as street signs, neighbouring buildings or signs that confirm the address matches Google Maps. Also show evidence of the company’s existence, such as a storefront, the name on permanent fixtures, or facilities accessible only to employees.
- Hybrid companies:
Hybrid companies should show both a fixed location and elements related to mobile operations. This could include footage of an order pickup point and a vehicle delivering products or providing services on the customer’s premises.
- Companies operating in a specific area:
For companies operating in the field, it is crucial to show work tools, company markings on equipment, documentation or the execution of services themselves. Record, for example, the opening of a company car with a logo or the execution of an order on site.
How to record a video step by step?
- Prepare a plan for the video:
Think about what you need to show based on the type of your business. Make sure all required elements are visible and consistent with the information on your Google My Business profile.
- What mistakes to avoid:
Don’t edit the recording or interrupt it in the middle. Make sure that the company name and the elements shown are consistent with the profile. Also avoid showing objects with no connection to the business.
- Instructions for uploading the video:
Open the Google My Business app on your mobile device, select the video verification option, record a video and upload it directly through the app. Remember to follow the on-screen instructions and avoid resubmitting before verification is complete.
What to do if you encounter difficulties?
- How can the video be improved if Google rejects the verification?
Google usually tells you the reason for the rejection. This could be a lack of key elements, poor quality of the video, or inconsistency with the company’s profile. Improve the video by making sure you show all the required evidence, such as a signboard, marketing materials or equipment. Avoid editing and make sure the video is continuous.
- Alternative verification methods:
If you are having difficulty with video verification, see if your company qualifies for verification by mail, phone or email. Contact Google support to determine the best option.
- Where to find help:
Google provides detailed FAQs and verification tips in its help center.
The most common myths about video verification
“I have to show the inside of my house.”
Not true! Video verification is designed to confirm the existence of a business, not to reveal private spaces. You can only show business-related items.
“Google can use my video in other ways.”
Google only uses the video for verification purposes and does not make it available to the public. Once the process is complete, the video is not available for replay.
“I don’t have enough professional equipment to record.”
All you need is a smartphone with a video recording function. What matters is the quality of the video and clearly showing the required elements.
Practical advice for entrepreneurs
- What elements are worth including?
Make sure the video shows:
- The company’s signboard.
- The surrounding area, confirming the location.
- Equipment or marketing materials related to the business.
- Examples of well-crafted videos:
- For a stationary store: footage of the storefront, interior and checkout.
- For a hybrid company: stationary location and logo on delivery vehicles.
- For field services: demonstration of equipment and order execution at the customer’s site.
If Google rejects your video, don’t worry – the platform always provides a reason. You can correct the video, taking into account the missing elements, and resubmit it. The verification process usually takes from a few hours to a few days, depending on the workload of the Google team.
Do you need help? SLT Media comes to the rescue.
By now, we hope you know how to properly perform video verification and what elements are crucial for your business to be verified. Remember that proper Google My Business verification is not only a confirmation of your online presence but also a way to increase your credibility and customer trust.
If you have any doubts or need help going through the process, we are here to help you – with us everything will go smoothly and stress-free! Contact SLT Media
