Google Business Profile Updates: April 2025 Essential Guide

Autumn brings fresh opportunities to enhance your online presence with Google Business Profile. This month’s updates offer practical solutions to common challenges and exciting new features to help your business thrive.

Let’s explore the latest developments and how they can benefit your business.

New Business Profile Video Tutorials

Google has released helpful tutorial videos to streamline profile management. These resources are particularly valuable if you’re new to Google Business Profile or experiencing access issues.

The first video provides a comprehensive guide to claiming and optimising your Business Profile, ensuring your business appears prominently in search results and Maps. This step-by-step tutorial simplifies what can otherwise feel like an overwhelming process.

For businesses struggling with access problems due to employee turnover or missing credentials, the “Request Business Profile ownership” video demonstrates how to regain control using the “Own this business” feature directly from Google Search. The tutorial also addresses what to expect after submitting a claim, including potential scenarios like denied or ignored requests.

Pro tip: To prevent future access problems, grant multiple trusted employees management permissions for your profile.

Handling Policy Violations Effectively

Receiving a policy violation notification can be concerning, but with the right approach, you can quickly resolve issues and restore your profile.

When facing a policy violation:

1. Understand the specific violation – Google typically identifies issues such as incorrect information, spammy content, duplicate listings, or review manipulation
2. Review Google’s business representation guidelines
3. Take immediate corrective action by updating inaccurate information or removing problematic content
4. Submit an appeal if you believe the violation was flagged in error

If your Google Business Profile has been suspended, learn how to fix a suspended Google Business Profile through our detailed guide.

Need Expert Help with Profile Reinstatement?

Dealing with Google Business Profile suspensions can be complex and time-consuming. Our professional Google Business Profile reinstatement service offers expert assistance to quickly restore your online presence. Our specialists understand Google’s policies and have a proven track record of successful reinstatements.

Don’t let a suspended profile impact your business – contact our team today for fast, effective reinstatement solutions!

For those handling appeals independently, strengthen your case by reviewing our steps to appeal Google Business Profile suspension and understanding the 10 reasons Google suspends business profiles.

Enhanced Features for Tour Operators

Tour operators now have improved options for showcasing their offerings through Google Business Profile, potentially increasing bookings and visibility.

Two methods are available for adding tickets and activities:

Tickets and Activities Editor

This tool allows direct connection with Google Things to do through your Business Profile. When potential customers search for activities in your area, your offerings will appear on your profile and in the Activities and Tours carousel. While this editor doesn’t currently support Ads connectivity, it provides excellent organic visibility.

Approved Connectivity Partners

For businesses seeking to directly connect inventory to Google Things to do in Search and/or Ads, working with Google’s approved connectivity partners is recommended.

These partnerships can enhance visibility and streamline bookings. Tour operators interested in advertising can also explore Travel campaigns specifically designed for Things to do.

New Communication Channels

Google has introduced WhatsApp and text messaging integration for Business Profiles in select countries. This feature creates a direct communication channel where customers can:

• Make enquiries about products or services
• Book appointments
• Request support information

This streamlined communication option helps businesses respond more efficiently to customer needs, potentially improving conversion rates and customer satisfaction.

Stay Connected with Google Small Business

For ongoing tips and support, follow Google Small Business on social media platforms including LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube, and X (formerly Twitter).

These channels provide daily business tips, product updates, and case studies, while also connecting you with a community of fellow business owners.

By implementing these April 2025 updates and leveraging the available resources, your business can maximise its Google Business Profile presence and attract more customers this spring.Retry