Name Change in Google Places

[AgileInt]

In the middle of a nightmare in Google Places. Dealing with a number of Chiropractic franchises. They all had previous practices (and Places listings). In many cases, a duplicate listing was created. Some locations are "under review", others have lost their ranking and a few are ranking for both location in the 7 pack.(usually because they had a different phone number used so I assume Google  sees it as a separate company despite the same location)

I am trying to fix all these duplicate or near duplicate listings that were created previously. In one case I edited the existing listing and tried to verify by phone. I got the 5 digit code but Google then said code is not valid.

Has anyone been through a similar situation? Should I delete/deactivate old listing and Then optimize the remaining or vice versa? A complete mess. In some cases they may have four listings...old company, new franchise and new name, Doctors names.

Any insight appreciated.

[MBayes]

Ei Yi Yi.  That is  a mess.

I have delt with many duplicate listing issues.  Here is what I would do in your case. Go to the Google places help forum.  List your issue with as many details as possible and hope you get the attention of a google employee.

Q.  Do you have access to all these accounts? Passwords?  Have you used the  Report a problem feature under the more tab on the places account?  Make sure you are logged into the account when doing so.

Be very detailed when you report the problem in this manner.

Duplicate listing issues are heck.  I hope this help some.

[AgileInt]

A mess indeed. I do have access to almost all the accounts. Have not tried "report a problem" as it seemed that was a dead end from what I read. Worth a try I guess.....especially for the poor soul who is UNDER REVIEW" and has been for months. All because someone did not know what they were doing. (other than trying to bill clients) I hate the snake oil sellers in this business. Hurts us all.

[MBayes]

Kevin,

I have had more success than failures with report a problem.  Just make sure you are logged in when you report it. And, the squeaky wheel gets the grease.

[KeriMorgret]

Kevin, there was a recent YOUmoz post about how to delete a Google Places listing. Let me know if this helps. http://www.seomoz.org/ugc/the-right-way-to-delete-a-google-places-listing

[DanielFreedman]

Been there. Done that. No easy answers. Pursue all available remedies. Resign yourself to the fact that nothing may work, and you may have to start over.