A Step-by-Step Guide to Correcting Incorrect Categories in GMB

A diagram highlighting how improper categorization can lead to a decrease in GBP ranking, affecting business visibility online.

Accurate categorization in Google My Business (GMB) is critical for local SEO and customer visibility. If your business is incorrectly categorized, it may impact how potential customers find you in local search results. Here’s a detailed guide on how to correct incorrect categories in GMB, brought to you by GMB Briefcase | Help Center.

Step 1: Log in to Your GMB Account

To begin, sign in to your Google My Business account using your credentials. Ensure that you are logging in with the email associated with the business listing you want to edit.

Step 2: Access Your Business Profile

Once logged in, locate the business listing for which the category needs to be corrected. On the left-hand side, click on Manage Locations’ if you manage multiple listings. From the list, select the business with the incorrect category.

Step 3: Edit Business Information

Navigate to the Info section of your GMB profile. Here, you can modify various aspects of your business information. Look for the category field. This is where your business’s primary and secondary categories are displayed.

Step 4: Choose the Correct Categories

Click the pencil icon next to the category field. You’ll see a list of available categories. It’s crucial to select the category that most accurately reflects your business. For example:

  • Primary Category: Choose a category that describes the core offering of your business. Google allows only one primary category.
  • Secondary Categories: Add secondary categories to highlight additional services or products you offer. You can select multiple secondary categories, but make sure they are relevant.

Tip: Be specific when choosing categories. Instead of selecting a general category like “Retail,” choose a more specific option like “Clothing Store” or “Electronic Shop.”

Step 5: Save Your Changes

After selecting the appropriate categories, click Apply to save your changes. Google will review your update, which typically takes a few days to reflect in your listing.

Step 6: Verify the Change

To ensure the new categories have been applied correctly, revisit your business listing after a few days. You can search your business name on Google or access the Info section again within GMB to confirm the changes.

Final Thoughts

Correct categories in GMB can significantly improve your visibility in relevant local searches, leading to increased customer engagement. By following these simple steps, you ensure that your business is accurately represented in Google search results.

 

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