Two Google Maps pins merging into one, with overlapping business names and logos, against a backdrop of a bustling city street.
Google Business Profile

Your Google Business Profile (GBP) is your business’s online storefront. It’s the first thing potential customers see when they search for you on Google, so it’s crucial that your profile is accurate, up-to-date, and represents your brand in the best possible light.

Sometimes, businesses end up with multiple Google Business Profiles, which can be a major headache. Maybe you rebranded or moved locations, or perhaps you inherited a duplicate profile from a previous owner. Whatever the reason, you’ll want to merge these profiles to avoid confusing customers and harming your local SEO efforts.

When Should You Merge Google Business Profiles?

Before jumping into the merging process, it’s essential to determine if you genuinely need to merge your GBPs. Here are a few scenarios where merging is necessary:

  • Duplicate Listings: If you have two or more listings for the same business location, you’ll want to merge them to consolidate your online presence.
  • Rebranding: If you’ve rebranded your business, you’ll need to merge your old profile with your new one to reflect your current brand identity.
  • Location Change: If you’ve moved your business to a new location, you should merge your old profile with a new one that reflects your current address.
  • Ownership Change: If you’ve acquired a business, you’ll want to merge the previous owner’s profile with your own to ensure all information is consistent.

How to Merge Your Google Business Profiles

Merging your Google Business Profiles can be a bit tricky, but it’s achievable with careful execution. Here’s a step-by-step guide to walk you through the process:

  1. Identify the Profiles to Merge: Sign in to Google My Business and locate the profiles you want to merge. Make sure you have ownership or manager access to both profiles.
  2. Choose the Primary Profile: Determine which profile you want to keep as your primary profile. This profile will be the one that remains active after the merge. Ideally, choose the profile with the most accurate information, the highest number of reviews, and the most established history.
  3. Update the Secondary Profile: Before merging, ensure the secondary profile has the most up-to-date information, including business name, address, phone number, and website. If the primary profile has more complete information, update the secondary profile to match the primary profile. This will ensure that you don’t lose valuable data during the merge.
  4. Contact Google Support: Unfortunately, there’s no automated way to merge GBPs yourself. You’ll need to contact Google My Business support and request the merge. They will guide you through the process and may ask for specific details to verify your identity and ownership.
  5. Monitor the Merge: After submitting your request, Google will review your case and initiate the merge. This process can take several days or even weeks. Monitor your profiles closely during this period to ensure the merge proceeds smoothly. Keep an eye out for any notifications or updates from Google.
  6. Verify the Merged Profile: Once the merge is complete, carefully review your primary profile to make sure all the information has been transferred correctly. Check your business name, address, phone number, website, photos, reviews, and other details. If you spot any errors or omissions, contact Google My Business support to rectify them.

What to Expect After Merging

After your Google Business Profiles have been successfully merged, you should notice several improvements:

  • Consolidated Online Presence: You’ll have a single, comprehensive profile that accurately represents your business.
  • Improved Local SEO: A single profile with accurate information will boost your local SEO efforts, making it easier for potential customers to find you online.
  • Enhanced Customer Experience: Customers will no longer be confused by duplicate listings, leading to a more streamlined and positive experience.

Troubleshooting Merge Issues

Sometimes, merging Google Business Profiles can encounter hiccups. Here are some common issues and troubleshooting tips:

  • Google Support Delays: Google My Business support can be slow to respond. Be patient and follow up if you don’t hear back within a reasonable timeframe.
  • Merge Rejection: Google might reject your merge request if your profiles don’t meet their criteria. Review their guidelines carefully and ensure your profiles are eligible for merging.
  • Data Loss: In rare cases, some data might be lost during the merge. Thoroughly review your merged profile and contact Google Support if you notice missing information.

Tips for a Successful Merge

To maximize your chances of a smooth and successful Google Business Profile merge, keep these tips in mind:

  • Back Up Your Data: Before initiating the merge, take screenshots or download data from both profiles to ensure you don’t lose important information.
  • Double-Check Information: Verify that all information on both profiles is accurate and up-to-date before contacting Google Support.
  • Be Patient: The merge process takes time. Don’t panic if it’s not instantaneous. Trust the process and allow Google Support to do their job.

Conclusion

Merging your Google Business Profiles is essential for maintaining a strong online presence and avoiding customer confusion. By following the steps outlined above and exercising patience, you can successfully merge your profiles and reap the benefits of a consolidated and optimized online storefront. If the process feels daunting or you need expert guidance, consider seeking assistance from a reputable digital marketing agency specializing in Google Business Profile management.

Note: Zing Business Systems provides done-for-you solutions for Google Business Profiles or provides ideas and solutions for the DIY business owner.

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Author: Matt Kallunki

Background and Experience Born in North Carolina and raised in a military family that moved frequently across North America, Europe, and Hong Kong, Matt Kallunki learned the values of adaptability and resilience from an early age. He enlisted in the Army National Guard at 17, bringing dedication and commitment to his service—a trait he has carried through every opportunity since. His education at Utah Valley University and later at Utah State University, along with diverse roles in technology, hospitality, and marketing, has shaped a career marked by innovation and leadership. As a veteran, Kallunki proudly leads Zing Business Systems, a veteran-owned and operated business. Inspiration and Innovation The constant throughout Kallunki’s career has been the importance of effective marketing—an insight first gained while running his initial restaurant. This understanding guided him through various entrepreneurial and consulting roles, eventually leading to the foundation of Zing Business Systems. Here, Kallunki has harnessed emerging technologies to provide small businesses with smart, scalable communication solutions. Zing Business Systems: Bridging Technology and Opportunity Zing Business Systems turns everyday challenges into growth opportunities. The company's flagship service, the Missed Call Text Back, ensures that small businesses never miss out on potential customer engagements. Kallunki equips his clients with tools that streamline communication, allowing them to focus on what truly matters—their core business and customer relationships. Customer Impact Kallunki's technology revolutionizes how businesses interact with customers. From automotive to professional services, he helps business owners centralize operations and automate routine tasks, significantly enhancing efficiency and customer satisfaction. Looking Ahead Dedicated to continuous innovation and expansion, Zing Business Systems is committed to empowering more businesses with effective communication tools. With over two decades of marketing experience and a lifelong passion for service, Kallunki is redefining standards in business engagement and management. More About Matt In addition to his professional pursuits, Matt Kallunki is a lifelong motivated learner with a diverse array of hobbies and interests that span both creative and technical fields. From open boat sailing and spear fishing to ham radio operation and gardening, Matt's activities reflect his broad interests and relentless curiosity. A Cold War to present military enthusiast and avid reader, he also indulges in audiobooks, constantly seeking new knowledge and adventures. As a certified scuba instructor and divemaster, Matt takes his passion for exploration below the water's surface, teaching others and enjoying the serene beauty of the underwater world. His love for hands-on creation is evident in his skills in woodworking and metalworking, while his technical acumen shines through in his interests in cybersecurity and networking. Photography is another passion, capturing moments from his ventures and everyday life, showcasing his artistic eye and attention to detail. Whether it’s running marathons, launching high-powered rockets, or nurturing his garden, each hobby Matt engages in reflects a facet of his dynamic personality and relentless pursuit of growth and excellence. Connect with Matt Kallunki You can connect with Matt and learn more about his work and Zing Business Systems through various platforms: Visit https://blog.zingacp.com/about-us-page for social and medial links.