Using DBA to Update GBP Name

[luischavez0104]

Hi,
We are looking to update the name of our GBP to include our primary service. I saw on https://www.sterlingsky.ca/google-business-name-ranking/ it says "Legally rebranding or filing a DBA to include keywords is the only way to use this tactic without violating Google’s guidelines."
Is it really as simple as obtaining a DBA or are there more steps like updating signage, vehicle wraps, website, license and registration.
Thank you!

 

[Conor Treacy]

Is it really as simple as obtaining a DBA or are there more steps like updating signage, vehicle wraps, website, license and registration.

Technically, it's the whole shebang! The guidelines say (paraphrased) that the name used must be the legal forward-facing name. So the copyright footers, invoices, vehicle wraps, signage, how you answer the phone, the logo on the shirt - they all must use the NEW name. They use terms such as "consistently represented and recognized in the real world across signage, stationery, and other branding".

More details here: https://support.google.com/business/answer/7667250
Specifically, the "guidelines for representing your business on Google" - https://support.google.com/business/answer/3038177

At least that's what they say in the guidelines. Obviously, people's mileage coloring outside the guidelines varies.

 

[keyserholiday]

It’s that simple. Google doesn’t care if the signage, website logo or name on the website, vehicle wraps, or photos get updated. While you don’t have to update your citations, if you update them two weeks prior, it can make it easier to update your GBP.

 

[luischavez0104]

@keyserholiday @Conor Treacy Thank you for your input! It appears you two have very different opinions on how I should proceed. I'll see how much risk our client is willing to take and probably land in the middle area between both of your suggestions. Thanks!

 

[keyserholiday]

@keyserholiday @Conor Treacy Thank you for your input! It appears you two have very different opinions on how I should proceed. I'll see how much risk our client is willing to take and probably land in the middle area between both of your suggestions. Thanks!

Google doesn’t suspend a GBP for a naming issue. Google has long stopped enforcing the naming guidelines along as it’s one keyword and one city.

 

[luischavez0104]

Google doesn’t suspend a GBP for a naming issue. Google has long stopped enforcing the naming guidelines along as it’s one keyword and one city.

That's good to know thank you!