Spam on Google Business Profiles is a real issue. But here’s the kicker—most local businesses and agencies aren’t even touching it. Yeah, you heard that right. Even though tackling spam can skyrocket your local SEO rankings, a whopping 73% of local businesses and 64% of agencies just don’t bother.
So, what’s holding them back?
Let’s dive into the data, dissect what’s going on, and most importantly—how you can flip the script.
Why Local Businesses Avoid Spam Fighting
Let’s be real. Local business owners have a million things on their plates. From managing inventory to keeping customers happy, reporting spam probably feels like a low priority. But here’s the wild thing—over half of them (54%) don’t even know how to remove spam. That’s like leaving money on the table!
And it’s not just the complexity. Some businesses don’t even realize they’re swimming in spam-infested waters. Keyword stuffing, fake businesses, duplicate listings—this stuff flies under the radar unless you’re in the know. One local business owner we spoke to said, “I didn’t realize how much spam was hurting my search results until I started reporting it.”
Agencies Are Also Slacking
Agencies, the pros who should know better, aren’t much better off. Only 35% of them bother to report spam, and even fewer provide it as a full-blown service to clients. What’s going on here?
For one, time is money, and spam removal isn’t exactly a quick job. Agencies are often juggling multiple clients, and spam-fighting doesn’t have the instant gratification factor of, say, a new social media ad campaign. On top of that, some agencies struggle to prove the value of spam removal to clients. “It’s hard to show clients how fighting spam impacts their bottom line, even though we know it works,” says one local SEO expert.
What’s Holding Everyone Back?
Let’s break it down:
Lack of Knowledge: More than half of businesses and agencies don’t know how to report spam.
Time Consuming: The process can be slow and tedious. One agency shared, “By the time I’ve reported a competitor’s spam, they’ve already created another fake listing.”
Unclear Feedback from Google: Many users report feeling like their spam reports go into a black hole. Google doesn’t always provide clear feedback or explanations, making it hard to know if you’re making a difference.
Why You Should Care
Spam fighting might not sound sexy, but it’s one of the most effective local SEO tactics out there. By cleaning up your Google Business Profile and reporting competitors who break the rules, you’re not just improving your own rankings—you’re taking business away from the bad guys.
And the best part? It works across industries. Whether you’re in real estate, restaurants, or home services, spam removal can be a game-changer. One agency who regularly fights spam for clients reported a 15% boost in search rankings within just a few weeks.
The Bottom Line
If you’re not investing in spam removal, you’re leaving opportunities wide open for your competitors. Whether you’re a local business or an agency, it’s time to learn the ropes, get familiar with Google’s guidelines, and start making moves.
In a digital world where visibility is everything, GMB Fox ensures your business isn’t just online—it’s the first choice customers make. Let us handle the complexities of digital marketing, so you can focus on what truly matters: growing your business.
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