Question: Geomodified Terms within GBP Profile Description? Against Guidelines or no?

[leigh.trask]

Hey Team!

I wanted to ask, is it against Google's guidelines to put geographical information (ie geo-modified queries) in a GBP description?

Doesn't seem like it would be, but I wanted to find out for sure!

Let me know when you can.

Best,
Leigh

 

[JeffClevelandTN]

Hi Leigh, you pretty much can put anything you want in the description with no worries. However, the best practice is to:

• Include relevant keywords naturally
• Highlight what makes the business unique
• Avoid promotional content (special offers, discounts)
• Follow Google's content guidelines (no links, no excessive capitalization)

It most likely will not impact SEO, while the GBP business name does. Having keywords in your GBP Name can be a significant visibility factor. The GBP name is supposed to reflect the legal name(s) of the business. Previously, I would have strongly recommended that a business register an alternate name with the Secretary of State, often known as a "dba" that you could insert keywords, like a city name. However, Google simply doesn't enforce the GBP name rules and guidelines, it is like the wild west and has been for quite awhile. I still would recommend that you register an alternate name or dba, it doesn't cost much, but if you choose not to, you very likely won't face any repercussions. See this post to see some crazy keyword stuffed GBPs: Has anybody seen a more spammy GBP name than this? | Google Business Profile (GBP) & Google Maps

So in your case, you can put whatever you want in the Description as long as it isn't vulgar. Again, it won't impact keyword search visibility, so you may want to consider using geo related keywords in your GBP name.