Getting a Google review removed isn’t an everyday task, but it’s a necessary one if you find a review that’s fake, inappropriate, or violates Google’s policies. The process isn’t too complicated, but it does require a few steps. By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly how to flag a review for removal and what to expect afterward.
Step by Step Tutorial on How to Get a Google Review Removed
Before diving into the steps, it’s important to know that Google only removes reviews that violate its policies. This means that not all reviews can be removed, but those that are spammy, off-topic, or contain hate speech can be flagged for removal.
Step 1: Identify the Review
First things first, you have to find the review you want to be removed.
This step is pretty straightforward. Go to your Google My Business account, and under the ‘Reviews’ section, locate the review in question. Make sure it’s one that actually violates Google’s review policies, or else it likely won’t be removed.
Step 2: Flag the Review
Once you’ve found the review, it’s time to flag it for Google.
Next to the review, you’ll see three vertical dots. Click on them and select ‘Flag as inappropriate.’ This signals to Google that there’s something wrong with the review and that they should take a closer look.
Step 3: Fill out the Report Form
After flagging the review, you’ll be directed to a report form.
Fill out this form with as much detail as possible. Explain why the review violates Google’s policies and why it should be removed. The more information you provide, the easier it will be for Google to make a decision.
Step 4: Submit the Report and Wait
Once the form is complete, submit it and wait for Google to take action.
After submitting the report, it’s a waiting game. Google will review the flagged content and determine whether it should be removed based on their policies. This can take several days, so patience is key.
After you complete the process of flagging a review for removal, Google will assess your submission. If they find that the review indeed violates their policies, they’ll remove it. However, if they determine that the review is within their guidelines, it will remain on your business profile.
Tips for Getting a Google Review Removed
- Always respond to reviews, whether good or bad, as it shows that you value customer feedback.
- Keep a record of all the reviews you’ve flagged, just in case you need to follow up with Google.
- Be patient, as the review removal process can take a few days.
- Only flag reviews that truly violate Google’s policies to maintain credibility.
- If you aren’t sure whether a review violates the policies, consult Google’s review guidelines for clarification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I remove a negative review if I simply don’t agree with it?
No, Google does not remove reviews based on whether they are positive or negative. They only remove those that violate their policies.
How long does it take for Google to remove a review after it’s flagged?
It can vary, but typically it takes a few days for Google to review and take action on a flagged review.
Will the person who wrote the review know that I flagged it?
No, the process is anonymous. The reviewer will not be notified that their review has been flagged.
What can I do if Google doesn’t remove a review I flagged?
If Google doesn’t remove the review, your best course of action is to respond to the review professionally and address any concerns raised by the reviewer.
Can I remove a review that I posted by mistake?
Yes, if you posted a review yourself, you can delete it by finding the review in your Google account and selecting the ‘Delete’ option.
Summary
- Identify the review in your Google My Business account.
- Flag the review as inappropriate.
- Fill out and submit the report form to Google.
- Wait for Google to review and decide on the flagged content.
Conclusion
Navigating the world of online reviews can be tricky, especially when you encounter ones that may harm your business’s reputation. Knowing how to get a Google review removed is a handy skill that can help you maintain a positive image online. While not every negative review can (or should) be taken down, those that cross the line into spam or abuse certainly don’t have a place on your business profile. So, take control of the situation, follow the steps outlined in this article, and keep your business shining in the best light. Remember, a well-managed online presence is key to attracting and retaining customers. What’s your next step in managing your online reviews?
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.