Share With Others
Verifying a new Google Business Profile (GBP) can be a headache, especially when Google asks for video verification. But there’s still a way to get verified quickly by text message instead.
This method works even for brand-new businesses with minimal online presence. Here’s how you can do it step by step.
⸻
The Goal
If you’re working with a new business that only has a basic website and maybe an Instagram or Facebook page, your goals probably include:
• Setting up and verifying their Google Business Profile
• Building local credibility
• Getting them to show up in Google Maps results
Most people in this situation go through the normal process and end up stuck with a video verification request. That’s slow, often fails, and can waste a lot of time.
But with the right prep work, you can avoid all that.
⸻
Step-by-Step Guide to Trigger SMS Verification
1. Create a Facebook Business Page
Make sure the NAP (Name, Address, Phone) matches exactly what you plan to use on the Google Business Profile.
Then, link it to the business’s Instagram account.
2. Build High-Quality Local Citations
List the business on trusted directories.
Keep the NAP info consistent everywhere to help build trust and authority.
3. Update Any Existing Listings
Look for old or incomplete profiles on industry directories.
Update them with the correct NAP and a link to the website.
4. Optimize the Website
Include the NAP in the footer on every page.
Add Local Business schema (structured data).
Create a contact page with an embedded Google Map.
5. Connect to Google Tools
Set up Google Search Console and Google Analytics.
Use a Google Workspace email address tied to the domain.
Make sure business info is consistent across all accounts and tools.
6. Use a Level 4+ Google Local Guide
Ask a trusted contact who is a Level 4 or higher Local Guide to manually add the business on Google Maps.
This early listing can start showing up for local searches within a few days.
7. Get Initial Reviews
Ask a couple of real clients to leave reviews on the unverified listing.
This helps show activity and builds credibility early on.
8. Claim the Listing Using a Workspace Email
Since the listing already has some trust signals, claiming it with a domain-based Google Workspace email often triggers SMS or phone verification instead of video.
Once you get the code, enter it and you’re verified.
⸻
Extra Tips to Help Avoid Video Verification
If you’re still getting prompted for video, try these ideas:
• Use a domain-based Google Workspace email (not a Gmail address)
• Get listed on sites like Yelp, BBB, Apple Maps, and Dun & Bradstreet
• Keep your business info consistent everywhere
• Set up a Google Site or Blogger with the same business details
• Add the business to Bing Places and sync it with Google
• Run Google Ads with a location extension
• Stay active on the business’s Facebook and Instagram pages
• Ask a Google Trusted Photographer or Level 5+ Local Guide to suggest your business
• Use your business email when interacting with Google tools like Ads, Analytics, and Search Console
⸻
The Bottom Line
If Google already sees strong and consistent signals that your business exists, you’re much more likely to get the simple verification method by text.
If Google doesn’t see enough evidence, it’ll ask for video to confirm legitimacy.
⸻
Final Thoughts
It’s still possible to avoid video verification for a Google Business Profile, even if the business is brand new. The key is showing Google that the business is real and active before you try to verify it.
If you follow these steps and stay consistent with your online presence, you’ll have a much easier time getting verified.
