How to Prevent Duplicate Google Listing for Business

A Google listing for business is a vital tool for boosting online visibility, attracting local customers, and enhancing credibility. It helps businesses appear on Google Search and Maps, presenting key information about your business and driving more traffic and engagement. 

A business listing on Google acts like a digital storefront, providing potential customers with essential details such as your address, phone number, website, hours of operation, and the products or services you offer. By creating and maintaining a Google listing, you can increase your online visibility, attract new customers, and build trust within your local community.

In this article, we explore essential tips to prevent duplicate Google listings for business. These include regularly verifying your business information, consolidating duplicate entries, and utilising Google's support tools to maintain an accurate and consistent online presence.

What Are Duplicate Google Listings?

Duplicate Google listings occur when a single business has more than one listing on Google My Business (GMB) or Google Maps for the same location or entity. These listings may include identical or similar business names, addresses, phone numbers, or other details, confusing both customers and search engines.

Why Do Duplicate Google Listings Happen?

Duplicate listings can occur due to several reasons:

1. Multiple Owners or Managers

If more than one person or department manages a business's online presence, they might unintentionally create multiple listings for the same location.

2. Previous Listings

Businesses may end up with duplicates if they rebrand, relocate, or change their name and fail to delete the old listings.

3. Different Addresses or Variants

Minor differences in the address (e.g., abbreviations or alternate spellings) or changes in phone numbers and other contact details can result in the creation of additional listings.

4. Errors in Data Aggregation

Google sometimes creates automatic listings based on information from third-party sources like directories, social media, or user suggestions, leading to duplicates.

Negative Impact of Duplicate Listings

1. Search Rankings

Duplicate listings can negatively affect a business's search engine rankings by splitting reviews and engagement metrics between multiple entries. This makes it difficult for Google to determine which listing is the most authoritative or relevant, often lowering the visibility of the business in local search results.

2. Customer Experience

Duplicate listings can confuse potential customers, leading them to outdated or incorrect information. Customers might visit the wrong location, call incorrect phone numbers, or receive inaccurate details about the business, resulting in a poor user experience.

3. Business Credibility

Multiple listings can make a business appear disorganised or unreliable. It may also suggest a lack of professionalism, which can damage the business's reputation and decrease consumer trust.

By managing duplicate Google listings, businesses can maintain a strong online presence, improve their search engine rankings, and provide a clear and accurate customer experience.

How to Identify Duplicate Google Listings

1. Search Your Business Name on Google 

Start by searching your business name on Google. If you notice multiple profiles appearing for the same location, this is a clear indication of a duplicate Google listing for your business.

2. Check Google Maps Listings

Review your business’s presence on my business Google Maps to identify any duplicate entries. Look for listings with similar names or addresses that could indicate an unclaimed or duplicate business listing on Google.

3. Audit Your Google Business Profile Dashboard

Log in to your Google Business Profile dashboard to check for multiple listings associated with the same business. Duplicate listings may exist under the same account if created accidentally or through third-party integrations.

4. Search for Variations of Your Business Information

Search different combinations of your business name, address, or phone number on Google. Inconsistent data or slight misspellings can indicate duplicate listings. Keeping an eye out for these variations can help you detect duplicates early.

5. Use Third-Party Tools for Listing Management

Utilise specialised tools and platforms to scan your online presence and identify duplicate Google listings. These tools help automate the detection process, allowing you to catch duplicates quickly and maintain a consistent Google listing for business.

By following these steps, you can effectively identify and address duplicate listings, ensuring your business listing on Google remains accurate and trustworthy.

Reasons for Duplicate Google Listings

1. Unclaimed Listings

When a business does not claim its Google Business Profile, a duplicate listing can be created by a customer or Google itself. This leads to multiple profiles with inconsistent or outdated information.

2. Multiple Managers or Owners

If different people are responsible for managing the business online, they might unknowingly create duplicate listings. Without clear communication, this can happen when new managers do not realise an existing listing is already active.

3. Rebranding or Name Changes

Businesses undergoing rebranding or changing names often create new listings instead of updating their original one. This results in duplicate profiles, confusing customers and impacting SEO.

4. Incorrect Address or Contact Information

Duplicates can arise when businesses have slightly different addresses, phone numbers, or email information on their listings. This can happen if changes to contact details are not uniformly updated across all platforms.

5. Google System Errors or Auto-Generation

Sometimes, Google’s system may automatically generate a listing for your business based on external data sources. These auto-generated profiles can create duplicates if the original listing already exists but has not been properly maintained.

Steps to Prevent Duplicate Google Listings

1. Claim and Verify Your Business Listing

Make sure you claim your Google listing for business to avoid unauthorised edits. Once claimed, verify the listing to establish its authenticity. This step helps prevent others from creating duplicate listings under your business name.

2. Consolidate Multiple Listings

If your business has multiple locations or listings, merge them into a single profile using Google's "Request to Merge" tool. This consolidation eliminates confusion and ensures all reviews and data are centralised in one business listing on Google.

3. Monitor Your Business Information

Regularly check your Google listing for unauthorised changes. Keep your business details updated and consistent across all platforms to prevent discrepancies that can lead to duplicate listings. Proactive monitoring helps maintain accurate business information.

4. Use Accurate and Consistent NAP Data

Ensure that your business name, address, and phone number (NAP) are consistent across all listings. Discrepancies in NAP data can confuse Google's algorithm and result in duplicate entries. Always cross-check with your website and social media profiles to maintain uniformity.

5. Report Duplicate Listings

If you find any duplicate listings, report them directly to Google for removal using the "Report a Problem" feature. Swift reporting helps prevent further complications and avoids confusion among customers looking for your business listing on Google.

By following these steps, you can effectively prevent duplicate Google listings and maintain a clear, consistent online presence.

Resolving Existing Duplicate Google Listings

1. Get Verified Using Various Methods

Verify your business to establish authenticity and prevent duplicates from reappearing. Google provides options to verify such as phone number code, business video, postcard or email verification. Verification helps ensure that only you can manage and edit your listings.

a) Click on Manage Profile

b) Then click on “Request Access”

c) Click on the “Request Access” option.

Select the appropriate option and fill in your contact name and phone number. Click submit and this access request is sent to the owner’s gmail ID managing the listing.

If the owner does not respond within 3 days, Google then gives the option of Phone code. Select the phone code option and a number will be displayed where you can call the number or generate a 6-digit Google Authentication Code which will be sent through SMS to the mentioned phone number.

- Step 1

- Step 2

Select Postcard option (if Google displays this option) and after filling the details, initiate the process.  The store dealer/owner will receive the postcard containing the 5-digit Google Authentication Code in 7-10 days’ time. Enter the code to verify the listing.

Select Business Video option (if Google displays this option) to verify the listing through the Business Video verification.  This is basically the business video recording of the store or establishment (typically 50-60 seconds).  Follow the steps as mentioned below and upload the video in the link provided after scanning the QR code). Google Support will then verify the listing.

- Step 1

- Step 2

- Step 3

- Step 4

2. Merge and Remove Duplicate Listings

Consolidate all duplicate Google listings by merging them into one verified profile. This process ensures that customer reviews and business information are unified. Merging duplicates prevents confusion and improves your business's online visibility.

3. Use the "Suggest an Edit" Option to Flag Duplicates

If you spot duplicate listings, utilise the "Suggest an edit" feature on Google to request corrections. This option allows you to flag inaccurate or duplicated listings for review. Google typically reviews and processes these requests within a few days.

4. Contact Google My Business Support for Resolution

If duplicates persist after initial efforts, reach out to Google My Business Support for assistance. Their team can help resolve issues, merge listings, or remove inaccurate entries. They offer multiple support options, including live chat, email, or phone.

Watch this video to learn how Sekel Tech can help revolutionise your Google My Business growth and effectively manage multiple listings.
 

Tips to Maintain a Single, Accurate Google Listing

1. Regularly Check and Update Your Business Listing

Create a schedule to review your Google listing for business regularly. Update any changes in your business hours, services, or location to maintain accuracy. Constantly checking your business listing on Google helps avoid discrepancies that could lead to duplicate entries.

2. Set Up Google Alerts for Business Listing Changes

Utilise Google Alerts to notify you of any changes or updates related to your business listing on Google. This tool keeps you informed about potential duplicate listings or inaccurate edits. Real-time alerts enable you to quickly respond to issues before they impact your visibility.

3. Monitor Customer Feedback for Duplicate Listings

Pay close attention to customer reviews and feedback for mentions of confusion or discrepancies. If customers comment on outdated information or multiple listings, it may indicate duplication. Regularly addressing this feedback can help you identify and resolve issues early.

4. Ensure NAP (Name, Address, Phone) Consistency Across All Platforms

Make sure your business name, address, and phone number (NAP) are consistent across your website, social media, and directory listings. Inconsistent NAP data can lead to duplicate Google listings. Regularly cross-check your information to maintain consistency and accuracy.

5. Respond Quickly to Any Unauthorised Changes

If you notice any unauthorised changes to your Google listing, take immediate action to correct them. Use the "Suggest an edit" option or contact Google My Business Support to resolve the issue. Rapid responses help prevent further complications and keep your listing accurate.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your Google listing for business remains accurate, credible, and easy for customers to find.

Optimise your local search presence and prevent duplicate listings by following these best practices in this 'Near Me' search optimization guide. Watch a short video for better understanding.
 

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Google Business Listings

1. Incomplete or Inaccurate Business Information

Filling out your Google listing for business with incomplete or incorrect details can result in poor visibility and customer confusion. Ensure all relevant fields, such as business hours, contact information, and services, are accurate and complete. Inaccurate business listing on Google can harm credibility and drive customers away.

2. Neglecting to Verify Your Listing

Failing to verify your business on Google can prevent you from fully controlling your profile and keeping it secure. Unverified listings are more susceptible to unauthorised changes or duplicate profiles. Always complete the verification process to maintain control over your business information.

3. Using Multiple or Inconsistent NAP (Name, Address, Phone) Details

Inconsistent or multiple NAP details across platforms can confuse Google’s algorithm, resulting in duplicate or incorrect listings. Ensure your business name, address, and phone number remain consistent across all online platforms. Consistency is key to maintaining a clear and accurate Google listing.

4. Ignoring Customer Reviews and Feedback

Not responding to reviews or ignoring customer feedback can damage your reputation and lower your ranking. Google considers customer engagement as a critical factor in search rankings, so promptly addressing reviews demonstrates that you value customer interaction. Regularly monitoring and responding to feedback helps build trust.

5. Failing to Update Listings Regularly

Leaving outdated information on your business listing on Google, such as incorrect hours or service offerings, can frustrate potential customers and negatively impact your search ranking. Set reminders to periodically update your profile to reflect any changes in your business. Keeping your listing up-to-date ensures you remain competitive and accurate.

To further enhance your understanding of creating and managing your Google listings, check out this comprehensive guide on creating a strong Google My Business profile. This step-by-step guide from the Times of India offers valuable insights into setting up and optimising your profile to attract more local customers and improve your online visibility. Read the full article here.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I get a Google business listing?

To get a Google Business listing, begin by setting up a Google My Business account and entering your business details, including name, address, and phone number. Google will review and verify the information, then publish your listing on Google Maps and search results.

2. What are the requirements for a Google My Business listing?

To set up a Google My Business listing, you need to provide a valid physical address, a phone number, and choose a relevant business category. Your business must also be open to the public at the given location.

3. How do I claim my business listing on Google?

To claim your business listing on Google, sign in to Google My Business and search for your business. If it appears, select it and follow the instructions to verify your ownership. If it does not show up, you can create a new listing and complete the verification steps.

4. Who is eligible for a Google Business Profile?

To qualify for a Google Business Profile, your business must operate from a physical location or serve a defined area. It should be open to the public, provide correct contact details, and be managed by someone with the authority to represent it.

5. How does Google listing work?

Google listings show business details on Search and Maps based on information from Google My Business. This helps users find businesses by displaying key details like contact info, location, and reviews.

Conclusion

Maintaining a single, accurate Google listing for business is essential for staying visible and trustworthy to potential customers. An up-to-date and well-managed business listing on Google not only enhances your search rankings but also prevents confusion caused by duplicate or inaccurate entries. Regularly monitoring your Google listing helps you stay ahead of any unauthorised changes, while keeping your information current improves customer satisfaction. Consistency across all platforms strengthens your brand's credibility and ensures Google recognizes your business as legitimate. By actively managing your Google listing, you create a positive online presence that drives growth and engagement.

Take Advantage of Sekel Tech's GMB Management Platform

Sekel Tech's GMB Management Platform offers a powerful solution for businesses looking to enhance their online visibility and effectively manage duplicate listings. It streamlines the process of managing multiple Google listings for business, ensuring that precise, engaging information reaches potential customers on Google Maps. With personalised engagement features, the platform helps businesses optimise their Google My Business (GMB) profiles, improve customer interactions, and maintain a consistent online presence across all platforms. By leveraging Sekel Tech's platform, businesses can stay competitive in today's digital landscape and maximise the impact of their business listing on Google.

Ready to optimise your Google listing for business and elevate your online presence? Get started with Sekel Tech's GMB Management Platform today and make every customer interaction count!

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