📍 Why Local SEO Must Be Done on Your Google Business Profile — Not Your Marketer’s

In today’s digital environment, Local SEO is one of the most effective ways to boost your business visibility on Google Search and Maps. But here's the catch: some marketers manage Google Business Profiles (GBPs) under their own accounts instead of the client’s. While it may sound harmless at first, this practice can severely harm your business in the long run.

🚫 The Risks of Letting a Marketer Control Their GBP for Your Business

You Don’t Own Your Listing
If your listing is created and managed under the marketer’s profile or Google account, you don’t own it — they do. If the relationship ends, they walk away with your reviews, your insights, and your listing — leaving you to start from scratch.

Your SEO is Building Their Brand, Not Yours
When a marketer adds your business to their GBP, they’re essentially using your details to boost their online presence. Your visibility might grow slightly, but in truth, your business is helping them rank higher — not the other way around. Google’s own Business Profile guidelines state that each business should manage and own its own profile.

No Access to Insights or Direct Management
Without direct ownership, you can’t see how many people are viewing your listing, what keywords bring them there, or which actions they’re taking. This limits your ability to grow your business with data-backed strategies.

You Risk Unethical or Controlling Behaviour
Some marketers may use this control to redirect traffic to other clients, respond to reviews without your input, or make changes to your listing that don’t align with your brand. The lack of transparency can lead to reputational damage and lost trust from your clients.

✅ Best Practice: Local SEO Must Be Done on Your Profile

Here’s how you keep control where it belongs — with you:

Own Your Google Business Profile
Claim it, verify it, and manage it under your own email address. Even if you hire a professional to help, they should only request manager access — never ownership.

Keep Your Info Updated
Ensure that trading hours, contact details, and services are always current so clients get accurate info when they find you on Google.

Use Your Own Branding
Your business deserves a profile that reflects your logo, banner, and messaging — not that of the marketer or their agency.

Request Transparent Reporting
If you’re paying someone to assist with Local SEO, request monthly insights or access to view performance metrics directly.

🛡️ Don’t Let Marketers Hijack Your Hard Work

If a marketer is running your Local SEO under their business profile, your marketing budget is going toward building their SEO ranking, not yours. Don’t be misled. Always ensure Local SEO is set up properly — under your accounts and ownership.

References:

🔹 Thrive Agency: Google Business Profile: A Local SEO Essential

🔹 Mobal: Consequences of Neglecting Your Google Business Profile

🔹 Google Support: Ownership & Access to Google Business Profiles