Say goodbye to Google My Business app. You can now create and complete a Business Profile directly on Google Search and Google Maps.

So what does this all mean?

You will no longer need to use the separate Google My Business website or mobile app. Instead, managing your business profile will be exclusively available through Maps and Search. You can expect that in the next few months, Google will stop supporting the Google My Business app and redirect mobile users to the Google Maps app. As a matter of fact, the Google Maps app already supports the features and functionality that you have become familiar with for your business – changing your operating hours, adding photos, answering customer reviews, connecting via direct messaging, adding offers, or posting answers to frequently asked questions. If you don’t have the Google Maps app yet, now is the time to download it so that you can continue updating your business information and connecting with your customers.

Do I really need a Google Business Profile?

In short – yes, absolutely. If your business has a physical location or provides services by meeting clients in other locations, then creating a Google Business Profile is a must to increase your visibility and put yourself on the map (pun intended). Google is the world’s most-visited website. A Google Business Profile will ensure that people looking for products and services in your area will find you.

Here are 5 reasons to create a Google Business Profile.

1. Keeping your customers up to date

You can easily edit information about your business on your Google Business Profile. Whether it’s a business address, contact information, or holiday hours – your customers will never have to guess where and when to find you.

2. Showcasing your business

Google Business Profile lets you upload photos and videos, add menus, list services and amenities, and feature products. Depending on your type of business, you will be able to showcase buttons that will make it easy to make reservations or place orders. You can even share that your company is women-owned (ours is!) and LGBTQ+ friendly (we are!)

3. Utilizing reviews

According to data, 91% of 18-34 year olds trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations. A great online reputation is one of the most powerful marketing tools – and Google Business Profile can help you shine! If you are worried about handling negative reviews, learn how to turn them into positive marketing here.

4. Responding to customers

You can interact with customers in multiple different ways with Google Business Profile – by answering their questions, responding to their reviews, or direct messaging with them. Responding in a timely manner will not only build trust, it will also help you stay in control of the message.

5. Tracking your performance

You can track your Business Profile performance over a given time period on Search or Maps. The business performance report will let you monitor specific profile interactions such as searches, the number of unique visitors to your profile, or direction requests. You can track the number of phone calls, website clicks, messages, and total interactions. You can also track the number of food orders or product views.

A complete Google Business Profile will get you a better ranking in Search and Google Maps, and give your business a boost. And just in case all of this information is making your head spin, just type “rock harbor marketing” in your search or maps to find us – we are only a click or call away!