This Business Owner Almost Lost His GMB Because of this…

In the ever-evolving landscape of online business, there are constant challenges that entrepreneurs face, and the story we’re about to share highlights a critical aspect often overlooked – the security of your Google Business Profile. Today, we recount a troubling incident where a client lost leads unknowingly due to a former employee having access to their Google Business Profile. We’ll delve into the details of the incident and provide essential steps to ensure you’re not vulnerable to such risks.

The Unfortunate Tale:

Our client had been in touch for about a year but only recently decided to join our local service mastery program. During the onboarding call, a routine check of assets revealed a startling discovery – a former employee, currently in litigation with the business, was the primary owner of the Google Business Profile. This meant she had the power to remove the owner, delete the profile, or make significant changes at will. The client was understandably shocked, realizing that every lead received through the Google Business Profile was essentially in the hands of someone no longer associated with the company.

Immediate Action:

Swift action was required to rectify the situation. The client was advised to contact the former employee, who, fortunately, chose to remove herself from the profile. This incident underscored the critical importance of owning and managing every aspect of your business, especially the source of your income.

The Lesson:

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the necessity of being in full control of your business assets. Regardless of the size of your company, neglecting this crucial aspect can lead to severe consequences. Even multimillion-dollar enterprises can fall victim to such oversights. The client emphasized that the fee paid for professional guidance was a small price compared to the potential losses incurred.

Taking Ownership:

To prevent such situations, business owners must take proactive steps. Every element of your business, including your Google Business Profile, should be under your control. Here’s a quick guide on how to safeguard your profile:

1. Accessing Your Google Business Profile Dashboard:

   • Type the name of your profile or the name plus city in the search bar.
   • Click on the three dots above the results.
   • Select “Business Profile Settings.”

2. Checking Ownership:

   • Navigate to “People and Access.”
   • Ensure you and your email are the primary owners.

3. Revoking Access:

   • If there are other people listed, revoke their access immediately.

4. Transfer Ownership if Necessary:

   • If you’re not the primary owner, ensure the transfer of ownership to yourself.

Ownership and active management of every business asset are non-negotiable for entrepreneurs serious about growth. Delegating tasks can come later, but understanding and overseeing crucial aspects of your business, such as lead generation, is paramount. Dedicate time daily to manage your marketing engine, as neglecting it could mean jeopardizing the foundation of your business. Learn, take control, and secure your business’s future.