What Should I Do After Requesting the Postal Postcard for Verification?

Short Answer: After requesting the postal postcard for verification, expect it to arrive within about five days, though it could take slightly longer. While waiting one to two weeks for the postcard, you can use the time productively by setting up your Google business profile. This includes adding your business hours, enabling messaging, filling out your business description, and uploading photos to enhance your profile.

Full Explanation

Once you have asked to receive the postal postcard for verification, you should anticipate a waiting period that could last roughly five days or even a bit more. It is important to allow for this time frame as the postcard contains a verification code essential for confirming your business’s location and legitimacy. During this waiting period, your account is not inactive; you have valuable opportunities to optimize your Google business profile without having to wait idly.

By proactively managing your profile, you can add essential details that help potential customers understand your business better. For example, filling in your operational hours allows customers to know when they can visit or contact your business. Accepting messaging lets you interact with customers directly through the platform. Adding a comprehensive business description helps communicate what your business offers, and uploading images visually showcases your products, services, or storefront.

Step-by-Step Breakdown

Request the postal postcard: Submit your address to Google and wait for the postcard to be mailed.
Anticipate delivery: Expect the postcard to arrive in about five days, though it could take up to two weeks.
Use waiting time effectively: While waiting, begin enhancing your profile by adding your business hours.
Enable messaging: Turn on the messaging feature to communicate with customers directly.
Add a detailed business description: Provide customers with clear information about your business.
Upload images: Add photos to make your listing more appealing and informative.
Verify when postcard arrives: Use the code from the postcard to complete your verification.

Real Examples

Imagine you have just requested the postal postcard to verify your local bakery. While you wait for the postcard to arrive, you might add your opening hours so customers know when to visit for fresh bread. Enabling messaging allows potential customers to ask questions directly. Adding enticing photos of your pastries and a written description about your commitment to quality will build interest even before verification is complete.

Common Mistakes

Not using waiting time: Some business owners do nothing while waiting, missing out on opportunities to strengthen their profile before verification.
Ignoring profile setup: Failing to add hours, descriptions, or images may result in a less attractive listing.
Assuming postcard arrives immediately: Not allowing enough time for delivery can cause impatience or unnecessary troubleshooting.

FAQs

How long does the postcard usually take to arrive?: It takes about five days but can sometimes take up to two weeks.
Can I work on my profile before verifying?: Yes. You can add hours, upload images, add descriptions, and enable messaging while waiting.
What if I don’t receive the postcard?: Wait at least two weeks; if it still hasn’t arrived, you can request a new one or check Google’s support for guidance.

Key Takeaways

Expect your postal verification postcard to take around five days, possibly longer.
Use the waiting time to prepare and enhance your Google business profile.
Add hours, enable messaging, write a clear business description, and upload images before verification.
This approach ensures your profile is attractive and ready for customers once verified.