Google Is Deleting Your Business Reviews

Why Google is Deleting Your Business Reviews

Google has been removing reviews from Google Business Profiles at an alarming rate. In recent weeks, many business owners have reported losing a significant number of reviews from their profiles. While Google continues to be a "fake review-catching machine," it has also started deleting real reviews.

There are a few reasons why Google might be doing this. One possibility is that Google is trying to level the playing field between businesses of different sizes and ages. Businesses that have been around for longer typically have more reviews than newer businesses, which can make it difficult for new businesses to gain visibility. By removing some reviews from established businesses, Google can make it easier for newer businesses to compete.

Another possibility is that Google is simply trying to improve the quality of its reviews. In recent years, there has been an increase in fake reviews, which can mislead potential customers. By removing reviews that are deemed to be fake or unhelpful, Google can make its reviews system more reliable.

Whatever the reason, it is clear that Google is taking a more proactive approach to managing reviews. In a recent update to its reviews system, Google announced that it will no longer be giving periodic notifications of improvements to the system. Instead, Google plans to make changes on a regular and ongoing basis.

What can you do to protect your reviews?

There are a few things you can do to protect your business reviews from being deleted by Google:

• Encourage your customers to leave reviews. The more positive reviews you have, the less likely it is that Google will remove them.

• Respond to all reviews, both positive and negative. This shows that you are actively engaged with your customers and that you are committed to providing a good experience.

• Be aware of Google's review policies. Make sure that you are not asking your customers to leave fake reviews or reviews that violate Google's policies.

What does this mean for your business?

The changes to Google's reviews system mean that you can no longer rely on having a large number of reviews to rank high in search results. Instead, you need to focus on getting high-quality reviews that offer more detail and comparisons.

Wolf Byte Solutions can assist businesses in mitigating the impact of Google's recent review removal changes by helping them monitor and track reviews, respond promptly, encourage customer reviews, train staff, utilize review management tools, stay up-to-date on Google's policies, and develop a reputation management plan. Additionally, Wolf Byte Solutions can provide tailored assistance based on industry and business needs to effectively manage their online reputation.

Google Search's reviews system and your website: https://developers.google.com/search/docs/appearance/reviews-system