Google has released a set of new guidelines that outlines which organisations can be featured on Google My Business.

Here's what you need to know.

Keep it real

First off, virtual offices are out. Only businesses with a physical location can be featured, and they must make in-person contact with customers during its stated hours.

Ineligible businesses include

• those under construction, or have yet to open to the public
   
• businesses that operate an ongoing service, class, or meeting at a location you don't have the authority to represent
   
• rental or for-sale properties, such as vacation homes, model homes or vacant apartments. Sales or leasing offices, however, are eligible for verification.

Let's get physical 

Google also recommends representing your business with the fewest categories as possible, and making sure your address and opening hours are accurate. In other words, keep it short and sweet.

While these guidelines are largely common sense stuff, taking the time to review your current business listing with Google might result in some easy bumps up the Search ladder.

To read the new guidelines in full visit support.google.com.