1. Using an artificial business name
The name must represent the establishment as it exists in the real world. Adding a list of services or cities to the name to try to stand out better creates misleading information and can result in restrictions. Keep keywords in the description, services and site when they are useful to the reader.
Check consistency with the sign, documents and official website. If there is an actual brand change, update other media. Google reminds in its rules on cards that the information must accurately reflect the establishment.
2. Choosing a category that is too general
The main category should describe the central activity, not all possible needs. Add secondary categories only when they correspond to real services. A clear category helps Google and customers understand what the business offers.
Don’t change categories every week based on a keyword. Review it as activity evolves and compare it to the content on the site. If several distinct professions coexist, clarify the offer rather than accumulating all the available categories.
3. Showing an inaccurate address or area
An establishment open to the public and a service provider working with its customers do not provide their presence in the same way. Do not post an address where no real welcome is guaranteed. Configure the service area according to the actual operation and the rules of the form.
The address, when public, must be identical on the site and the main media. Add useful directions to the site if the location is difficult to find. Do not create false offices to multiply local listings.
4. Forget exceptional hours
A wrong schedule turns a successful search into a closed door or unanswered call. Update public holidays, holidays and exceptional closures. For activities by appointment, clearly explain how it works instead of suggesting a permanent welcome.
Google allows you to modify the times and contact details of a validated listing. Its documentation recommends keeping this information up to date in Search and Maps: modify an establishment file.
5. Send to the wrong page on the site
The main link must open a page that is fast, mobile and consistent with the listing. Avoid a broken redirect, temporary page, or home that doesn't mention the service or area. For a reservation, test the link until confirmation.
Add tracking parameters when your measurement tool allows it in order to identify visits from the file. Don't sacrifice the readability of the displayed link. Check the call, route and location buttons monthly.
6. Post generic or misleading photos
Show the exterior, interior, team, products or achievements depending on your activity. The images must help the customer recognize the place or understand the service. Google recommends photos that are sharp, well-lit, and true-to-life, without excessive editing.
The documentation indicates in particular JPG or PNG formats, a size of 10 kb to 5 MB and a recommended resolution of 720 × 720 px. Check out the official photo tips before an important series.
7. Leave services and attributes incomplete
Indicate the services actually offered, with understandable titles. Useful factual attributes, means of access or options can reduce repetitive calls. Don't check a feature just to appear in more searches.
Use the scorecard effectiveness indicator as a checklist, not as a ranking guarantee. Google says it helps identify missing information, such as description, hours and contact details.
8. Ignoring reviews or responding mechanically
Respond calmly, without posting private data. Give thanks for positive feedback with a real item. When faced with criticism, recognize the subject, check the file and offer a direct exchange. A response should not become a public trial.
Google indicates that a listing must be validated to respond and allows you to report a review that violates its rules. The page Manage customer reviews describes these actions.
9. Posting without a goal
A post can announce news, a service or a useful step. Provide precise information and consistent action. Do not include a telephone number in the text when the rules prohibit it; use the call button associated with the form.
Do not publish to “feed the algorithm” without contributing anything. A change of schedule must first be recorded in the field provided. An offer must include its conditions. Reread them rules on posts and media.
10. Never control changes
Information may come from users or other public sources. Regularly consult the file like a customer, from a device not connected to your account. Check name, hours, phone, location, photos and links.
Keep a simple record of important changes and administrator access. Link the listing to useful local pages, then track calls, directions requests and site visits. To coordinate the file, site and notices, read the guide local SEO in Saint-Brieuc.
Frequently asked questions
Does modifying the file often improve the ranking?
The priority is accuracy. Do not change stable information without reason. Publish when real information deserves to be brought to the attention of customers.
Can we have a listing without a store?
Service providers who travel to their clients' homes may be eligible as local service establishments. Configure the address and zone correctly according to Google rules.
How many photos should I add?
There is no universal number. Start by covering the useful decisions: recognize the location, see the offer and understand the real quality of the service.
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