Website Disapproved on Google My Business: Reasons, Fixes, & Maximizing Visibility

Sometimes if your website is brand new & you have very few pages indexed in Google, you might see your website URL disapproved in Google My Business listing. To fix that, go to Google Business Profile help page & contacting them. Here is the URL: https://support.google.com/business/gethelp

Why Google Might Disapprove Your Website

Let’s delve into the most common reasons why Google could disapprove your website:

• Incorrect URL Formatting: Ensure your website URL adheres to Google’s standard format (https://www.yourbusiness.com). Avoid complex redirects, subdomains, or additional parameters when possible, as these can confuse Google’s systems.
• Prohibited Content: Your website must be absolutely free of content that violates Google’s guidelines. This includes:
  • Adult or sexually suggestive content
  • Hate speech or content promoting violence
  • Content related to illegal activities (drugs, weapons, etc.)
  • Deceptive or misleading information
  • Content that exploits, abuses, or endangers children
• NAP inconsistencies: Even minor discrepancies in your business’s name, address, or phone number (NAP) between your website and Google My Business listing can cause disapproval. Here’s how to ensure consistency:
  • Exact Match: Your NAP must be identical across all platforms.
  • Formatting: Check spacing, punctuation, and abbreviations.
  • Citation Sources: Update NAP on other listings and directories.
• Poor Website Quality: Google favors websites that offer a great user experience. These factors signal low quality to Google, leading to disapproval:
  • Thin Content: Create substantial, informative pages with value to users.
  • Duplicate Content: Avoid plagiarizing or copying content from other sites.
  • Difficult Navigation: Make your menu and site structure intuitive.
  • Slow Loading: Optimize image sizes, leverage caching, and reduce plugins.
  • Mobile-Unfriendly: Use responsive design or a dedicated mobile site.
• Technical Issues: Errors like malware infections, security vulnerabilities, and broken links or pages will trigger a rejection:
  • Regular Malware Scans: Use security tools to check for vulnerabilities.
  • 404 Errors: Redirect broken pages or use a custom 404 page.

Troubleshooting & Best Practices for Website Approval

1. Scrutinize Google’s Guidelines: Familiarize yourself with Google’s guidelines for representing your business (https://support.google.com/business/answer/3038177). Identify any potential violations and fix them immediately.
2. Address Formatting & Content Issues: Rectify URL formatting errors, remove prohibited content, and ensure your content is helpful and informative. Expand your pages to offer comprehensive information to users.
3. NAP Verification: Meticulously cross-check your NAP information on your website, GMB listing, and any other online directories. Ensure consistency across all platforms.
4. Website Quality Boost:
   • Design: Invest in a well-designed site with a professional look and feel.
   • Content: Create unique, high-quality content relevant to your audience.
   • Navigation: Make your menu and site structure intuitive and easy to follow.
   • Loading Speed: Implement performance optimization strategies.
   • Mobile Optimization: Ensure your site works flawlessly on all devices.
5. Technical Fixes:
   • Security: Address any security issues and install an SSL certificate.
   • Broken Links: Regularly check for and fix broken links, both internal and external.
   • Malware Check: Scan your website regularly for infections.

Reapplying Your Website & Getting Support

1. Update GMB Listing: Edit the website field in your Google My Business dashboard with the corrected information.
2. Wait for Review: The review process might take some time.
3. Contact GMB Support: If the issue persists, reach out to Google My Business support for direct assistance (https://support.google.com/business/?hl=en#topic=4596754).