The last few months have been a confusing time for businesses and customers alike. With lockdown restrictions and guidelines changing all the time, this will likely be the new normal for the impending future.

Google has introduced an array of new features for their Google My Business listing, which should help you give everyone the information they need. Here, we will look at how you can specifically use these features while the crisis continues.

To make sure that your customers have the latest information

If your business is affected by COVID-19, update your Google My Business profile to provide the most accurate information to your customers. You can provide updates about your business to customers such as:

  • Your adjusted hours of operation, for instance, if you close early.
  • Add ‘more hours’ that describe other business operations such as delivery, takeaway, and drive-through.
  • Select an attribute to show that you offer online services such as classes, appointments, or estimates.
  • Delays on specific business services.
  • Extra services that you are providing for the community.
  • If your business is ‘Temporarily closed’.

Update your business description 

If your operations have been affected by the coronavirus pandemic- for example, you might run a restaurant that is now only offering takeaway orders.

If you are on any takeaway ordering websites such as Deliveroo, Uber Eats, or Just Eat, then do not forget to mention this on your Google My Business. Your updated GMB listing should include a link to the page where your customers can collect orders or find more useful information. If you are reachable by phone, double-check the contact info to confirm if the provided telephone numbers are correct.

If you are new to the e-commerce and delivery game, make an effort to add enough information to the description to ensure a smooth ordering process for your customers.

Create posts to publish important news  

Google My Business listings come with a ‘post’ feature, allowing you to continually update potential customers. You may have previously used this feature to announce a new product, however, during the pandemic, it is worth updating your customers to ensure they know how your business is currently operating.

Respond to any questions 

You may already have some experience in responding to questions via your Google My Business. However, if you have not, this feature allows people to submit questions about anything they might be worried or confused about. To keep that customer engaged, you must ensure you answer promptly. When you are answering someone’s question, remember that lots of people are going to see your answer, which means you will want to be as friendly and helpful as possible.

As an extra bonus, throw in some additional information that you think they may benefit from and make sure they know how appreciative you would be if they paid you a visit.

Add health and safety attributes to your listing!

In September, Google introduced health and safety attributes to their Google My Business listings. Food, retail, and service businesses can now add attributes to inform customers about the safety measures they have implemented.

Safety measure attributes include:

  • Masks required for customers or staff
  • Temperature checks required for customers or staff
  • Appointments or reservations required

You can keep your Google My Business listing updated via your dashboard, and this must be updated, especially when someone requires your business’ services. You want to provide potential visitors with all the information they need to be comfortable.

Let’s socialise

Should you have any questions about your Google My Business profile or your current social media strategy then contact us on 020 3911 9715 or make an online enquiry here.