Is it better to use a business email or a Gmail when opening Google My Business (GMB)?

Short Answer: It is better to use a business email when opening a Google My Business listing because Google can verify the email domain ownership, which helps confirm you are the real business owner. Using a Gmail account often leads to Google suspending your GMB. Additionally, using a Google Workspace (formerly G Suite) business email may give verification options like email or phone.

Full Explanation

When setting up a Google My Business (GMB) profile, the choice of email address matters. Google favors business emails tied to a company’s domain because it can directly verify ownership of the domain. This verification signals to Google that the person creating the listing genuinely represents the business. In contrast, using a generic Gmail account lacks this domain connection, making it harder for Google to confirm authenticity. As a result, accounts using Gmail are more prone to being suspended by Google, impacting the visibility and management of the business listing.

Furthermore, if you use a Google Workspace (formerly called G Suite) business email to create the GMB listing, Google sometimes offers additional verification options such as email or phone verification. These options can simplify the verification process and provide added confidence in your business’s legitimacy.

Step-by-Step Breakdown

1. Choose your email carefully before opening a Google My Business profile.
2. Preferably select a business email associated with your company’s domain, showing clear ownership.
3. If you use Google Workspace, you might get verification options like email or phone, making the process easier.
4. Avoid using a generic Gmail account to prevent the risk of your GMB getting suspended.

Real Examples

Businesses that open their GMB listing with an email address linked to their domain usually experience smoother verification and fewer suspensions. For instance, a company using [email protected] is likely to be recognized and verified more easily compared to someone creating a profile with [email protected]. When Google detects domain ownership, it reassures them that the listing belongs to a legitimate business owner.

Additionally, companies that use Google Workspace email addresses sometimes benefit from alternative verification methods, such as receiving a verification code by phone or email, streamlining the setup.

Common Mistakes

• Using a generic Gmail account instead of a business email, which can result in account suspensions.
• Not verifying ownership of your domain through your email, making it harder to prove business authenticity.
• Missing out on the benefits of Google Workspace business emails, such as additional verification options.

FAQs

Can I use a Gmail to open a Google My Business listing?

Technically, yes, but it is not recommended because Google often suspends GMBs opened with Gmail accounts.

Why is a business email better than Gmail for GMB?

Because Google can verify ownership of the domain tied to the business email, making your listing more trustworthy and less likely to be suspended.

Does using Google Workspace help with GMB verification?

Yes, using Google Workspace can sometimes offer you email or phone verification options, simplifying the verification process.

Key Takeaways

• Always use a business email linked to your company domain when opening a GMB listing.
• This helps Google verify that you are the real owner, reducing the risk of suspension.
• Google Workspace emails may provide additional verification methods for easier setup.
• Avoid using generic Gmail accounts to prevent unnecessary risks with your Google My Business profile.