Fake Engagement

Question

I have contacted Google Business to do a manual review of a poor review left by someone who is not a customer and has had no experience with any of our products or services. This individual was a consultant we interviewed to possibly hire. We chose not to move forward and this individual took revenge in leaving giving us a low rating with a comment that says "Do better."
A Google rep named Arvoon responded saying "Upon checking, I see that the review is not violating the guidelines. So the review cannot be removed since it was not found to be in violation of our policies."  It also says "If you have any other questions, contact us. We’re happy to help." 
I responded by asking if they can explain how this review does not violate their Fake Engagement policy by which "Content that is not based on a real experience and does not accurately represent the location or product in question"
I simply get an automated response of the exact same email back.  How is Google offering to answer any questions, and then sending the same automated response to follow up questions? It seems that Google is violating their own guidelines by not authentically responding to questions in their offering of help.  Does anyone have any suggestions on how to get my question answered by Google?  Thank you!!!

David W Cox · Accepted Answer

Hi, Stacy Vasilatos,
 
You have asked and they have declined. To dilute the negative effect the best way to take control of the situation is to actively solicit more reviews from satisfied customers. You did not provide any details for your listing so I assume you could use more reviews.  Here is an article on how to "Get Google reviews"  A perfect score is not as helpful to a listing as one that is a little lower.  Potentil customers are aware of variations in reviews.

Thanks For Asking,
 
David W Cox
 
If you find this response resolves the question, please mark this post as completed by clicking on &ldquo;the recommend&rdquo; button. 
 
Find me at Davidwcox.com
 
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