The latest updates on Google My Business.
This post is part of a continuing series of monthly updates on the #1 search tool used by ready-to-buy customers. For all the updates, or to see additional information, read Attract More Customers with Google My Business.
COVID-19 Restrictions Continue
Google continues to pause a number of features within Google My Business to save business owners false information or delays in being able to respond. At the same time, Google has added and returned some staple features. Read on!
Reviews Return
Business owners were crushed to see reviews put on ice last month amid covid-19. While Google paused the feature due to limited staffing, they’ve opened up the vault and business owners can once again ask and respond to reviews. Sending a review link to customers directly increases the likelihood of a review. Not sure how? Check out this video. ⇓⇓
New Business Updates Available
If your business is impacted by COVID-19, you can make the following updates:
- Update hours of operation if you close early.
- If your business services are experiencing delays.
- Extra services you are providing for the community.
- Mark your business “Temporarily closed” on Google.
The updates will show on your Business Profile on Google Search and Maps.
Marking your business “Temporarily closed” won’t affect local search ranking and it will be treated similar to open businesses. Businesses offering pickup or delivery services should not mark the business “Temporarily closed,” otherwise those services won’t show on Google.
Mark Your Business or Location Temporarily Closed
To make your profile appear as temporarily closed on Google Maps and Search:
- On your computer, sign in to Google My Business.
- In the menu on the left, click Info.
- To the right, point to the section “Close this business on Google.”
- To expand this section you might need to click the arrow.
- Click Mark as temporarily closed.
TeleHealth Changes Available
Businesses in health related categories offering telehealth during social isolation can add the links and services to their listing.
Restaurants can add ‘Delivery Available’ or ‘Takeout Available’ to Business Name
Google is making an exception to what businesses can use in their business name for restaurants. Businesses can add “delivery available” or “takeout available.” This feature will only be available during social distancing.
Google Expands AI Calling with Duplex to Canada
Google clarified it’s using Duplex mainly to reach businesses in Canada to update business hours for Google Maps and Search.
