As a local business owner, you can utilize numerous online tools to improve your bottom line, with Google Business Profile (GBP) being among the most effective to consider.
Notably, GBP is free to use, and you'll have the opportunity to add your business to Google Maps while appearing in local search engine results.
Yet, while Google Business Profile includes multiple features, some will benefit your local business more than others.
With this in mind, in this post, we'll look at why GBP is valuable, how to make the most of your profile's appearance, and the benefits of using it when marketing your local business online.
1. Bookings
The bookings feature in GBP has been around since 2016 but has significantly grown in popularity since its introduction.
Initially, the feature was only available to fitness classes in San Francisco, New York, and Los Angeles; however, businesses worldwide can now utilize it to offer customers a quick and easy way to create bookings.
With this in mind, the specific types of companies eligible to use it include:
- Beauty
- Dining
- Fitness
- Financial services
- Local services
- Shopping
By all means, the bookings feature is paramount because it gives customers a fast and convenient way to book with your business 24 hours a day, even when your shop or store is closed.
2. Messages
Launched in February 2021, the Google Business Profile Messages feature is one of the newest features added to GBP.
To emphasize, it is a free tool that allows customers to contact businesses without knowing their email addresses or phone numbers.
Notably, the message button will display on your GBP listing, which allows the customer to contact you quickly and directly.
Consequently, this serves as a real-time messaging service.
Now, let's quickly examine some of the primary benefits of using messages in your business.
Improved customer service
Improved customer service is the primary benefit of adding the messages feature.
Above all, keeping happy customers is challenging but crucial for any business.
Correspondingly, anything that helps increase customer satisfaction is a worthwhile investment.
Additionally, satisfied customers are likelier to refer your company to others while frequently making repeat purchases.
Offering a more personalized service
Personalization is another important aspect of customer service, as customers expect personalized service that caters to their needs.
With messaging, you can talk to your customers one-on-one, which helps you build more personal connections that make your customers feel seen and heard.
Utilizing Google Profile Features helps grow your local business
Permitting customers to reach out to you quickly increases their trust and confidence in your brand.
Accordingly, with the messages feature, you can assist customers quickly, which helps you retain otherwise lost customers.
Conversely, they will likely seek one of your competitors if your customers telephone your business but cannot reach a live person.
Thus, having the messages feature active allows your customers to reach out through this feature.
Hence, this feature allows you to grow your business while catering to a broader range of customers.
3. Posts
Google Business Profile posts can contain up to 1,500 characters and are one of the most valuable features you can utilize within your business profile.
For one thing, GBP posts allow you to freely upload text, videos, photos, and eCommerce listings.
Moreover, Google Business Profile Posts allow you to provide helpful information to customers while maintaining an active listing.
For example, you can use them to promote sales and discounts, advertise new products, and improve customer experience.
In conclusion
Overall, Google Business Profile is an excellent suite of tools that can significantly benefit your local business by expanding your online presence.
Again, the features mentioned above enable businesses to update their information, appear in Google Maps, respond to customer reviews, provide essential customer insights, and more.
Therefore, be sure to utilize the top 3 Google Business Profile features discussed in this post to capitalize on the fantastic potential of the internet and take your local business to the next level.
So, what are you waiting for?
Start exploring your Google Business Profile today and see how it can work for your business.
Talk Soon,
Erik
We implement creative, results-based digital marketing strategies for local business clients.
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