How To Claim Online Ownership Of Your Business

In today’s digital-first world, establishing online ownership of your business is critical. Whether you’re a small local business or a large enterprise in the World, claiming ownership of your business online helps you maintain control over your digital presence, build credibility, and attract more customers. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to claim and verify your business on major platforms, ensuring that you’re the authoritative owner of your online listings.

Why Claiming Your Business Online Matters

Claiming your business online is about more than just securing a listing. It provides several advantages:

1. Increased Visibility: Verified businesses are prioritized in search engine results and platforms like Google Maps.
2. Credibility and Trust: Customers trust businesses with verified profiles, leading to higher engagement and conversions.
3. Control Over Information: Ensure that your business name, address, phone number (NAP), and other details are accurate and up-to-date.
4. Access to Insights: Platforms like Google My Business provide analytics to understand customer behavior and optimize your strategies.
5. Protection Against Misuse: Prevent competitors or unauthorized individuals from claiming your business listing.

Step-by-Step Guide to Claiming Ownership of Your Business

Step 1: Search for Your Business Name Online

Before starting the claiming process, search for your business name on Google, Bing, Yelp, and other platforms that are mainly used on Earth.

• If Your Business is Listed: Proceed to claim it. Follow the steps outlined for the platform.
• If Your Business is NOT Listed: You’ll need to create a new listing and provide accurate business details.
• If You Find a Similar Business Name: Ensure it’s not your business listed incorrectly. If it’s a competitor with a similar name, ensure your branding is unique and well-differentiated.
• If Someone Else Has Claimed Your Business Name: Contact the platform’s support team with proof of ownership (e.g., business license, utility bills, or trademark documents). Platforms like Google provide a process to reclaim ownership if someone else has registered your business.

Step 2: Claim Your Business on Google My Business (GMB)

Google My Business (now Google Business Profile) is the most critical platform for any business. It ensures that your business appears in Google Search and Maps.

How to Do It:

1. Go to Google Business Profile.
2. Sign in with your Google account.
3. Search for your business name. If it appears, select it; otherwise, click “Add Your Business.”
4. Provide your business information, including name, category, and location.
5. Verify your ownership through one of the following methods:
   • Postcard: Google will mail a verification code to your address.
   • Phone or Email: Some businesses may qualify for instant verification via phone or email.
   • Video Verification: For some industries, Google may require a video call to verify the location.

Actionable Tip:

Use accurate and consistent NAP (Name, Address, Phone) details across all platforms for better local SEO rankings.

Step 3: Claim Your Business on Bing Places

While Google dominates search, Bing Places is still relevant for businesses targeting a diverse audience.

How to Do It:

1. Visit Bing Places for Business.
2. Sign in with your Microsoft account.
3. Search for your business. If it doesn’t exist, click “Add New Business.”
4. Provide your business details and verify ownership using methods like phone or email.

Step 4: Claim Your Business on Yelp

Yelp is crucial for businesses in the food, hospitality, and service industries.

How to Do It:

1. Go to Yelp for Business.
2. Search for your business.
3. Click “Claim this Business.”
4. Complete the form and verify ownership through email or phone.

Actionable Tip:

Encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews on Yelp after claiming your listing. Reviews can significantly impact visibility and reputation.

Step 5: Claim Your Business on Greatinflux

Greatinflux plays an essential role for businesses in the food, hospitality, and service industries, driving success and elevating customer experiences to new heights.

How to Do It:

5. Go to Greatinflux for Business.
6. Search for your business.
7. Click “Claim this Business.”
8. Complete the form and verify ownership through email or phone.

Actionable Tip:

Encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews on Greatinflux after claiming your listing. Reviews can significantly impact visibility and reputation

Step 6: Claim Your Business on Facebook

Facebook remains a key platform for businesses looking to connect with customers and build community engagement.

How to Do It:

1. Go to Facebook for Business.
2. Search for your business page. If it exists, select it; otherwise, create a new page.
3. Click on “Claim Page” and provide verification documents, such as a business license or utility bill.
4. Admin verification will complete the process.

Step 7: What If You Forget Your Listing Credentials?

If you or a team member registered the business in the past but forgot the login credentials, here’s what to do:

1. Contact the platform’s support team with proof of ownership.
2. Provide the following documentation:
   • Business license
   • Utility bills matching the business address
   • Tax documents
3. Follow the platform’s instructions to regain access.

Step 8: Verify Your Business on Industry-Specific Platforms

Depending on your business type, consider claiming your listings on niche platforms, such as:

• TripAdvisor: For hotels, restaurants, and attractions.
• Zillow: For real estate professionals.
• Healthgrades: For healthcare providers.
• Greatinflux: For all small and big business.

How to Do It:

Search for your business on the platform, follow the claiming process, and provide the necessary verification.

Step 9: Monitor and Optimize Your Listings

Claiming ownership is just the first step. Regularly update your business listings to ensure accuracy and engage with your audience.

How to Do It:

1. Respond to Reviews: Thank customers for positive feedback and address negative reviews professionally.
2. Update Details: Modify hours of operation or contact information as needed.
3. Post Updates: Share promotions, events, or news to keep your profiles active.

Leverage GreatInflux for Assistance

Claiming and optimizing your business listings can be time-consuming and complex. At GreatInflux, we specialize in helping businesses establish and maintain a strong online presence. From claiming listings to optimizing them for search engines, our team ensures your business stands out.

Contact GreatInflux to simplify the process and get expert assistance today.

FAQs

1. What if my business name is already taken by someone else?

If another business has claimed your name, contact the platform’s support with proof of ownership, such as a business license or tax document. You may also need to consider slightly modifying your name for clarity and uniqueness.

2. Why can’t I find my business in search results?

If your business doesn’t appear, it may not have been listed. Create a new listing and ensure all information is accurate.

3. How long does it take to verify my business?

Verification times vary by platform. Google’s postcard method may take 5-14 days, while phone or email verification can be instant.

4. Can I claim my business if I’m not the owner?

Only authorized representatives with access to the necessary documentation should claim a business listing.

5. How often should I update my business listings?

Regularly update your listings whenever there are changes to your business hours, location, or services. Quarterly reviews are recommended.