Google My Business (GMB) is extending its capabilities from a local directory tool into becoming a customer relationship management and “engagement” platform.
The update to the GMB app offers improved customer visibility and additional capabilities down the road for further enhancements.
Google is headed toward GMB becoming an “engagement platform” for local consumers and businesses. The new version of the GMB app helps strengthen that initiative with its new capabilities.
Currently, posts are public; however, Google could have a feature in the future to enable selected groups of customers or followers for special communication such as special offers or rewards like a loyalty platform. Other possible features in the future could be Q&A notifications or other features that would be deemed valuable to offer in consumer and local business interactions.
An important first step of a local SEO strategy is to claim, verify, and optimize your local business’ Google My Business listing. This increases the likelihood of your business showing up in Google’s Local Pack, Local Finder, Google Maps, and organic Google Search rankings. A free listing can be claimed and company information such as address, phone number, business hours, and other information such as parking details and type of payment accepted can be added.
Google recently has added many additional features that help your listing stand out from the competition and grab your audiences attention – resulting in helping your search ranking as well!
Most local businesses simply claim their GMB listing and forget it. There are many ways to optimize your listing beyond the basic standard business profile information.
If you need help implementing an optimized GMB listing for your business by taking advantage of these and many other ways to optimize your visibility, engagement, and conversions online, be sure to contact us!