In 2024, Google made some exciting updates to its Google Business Profile tool, which you might know by its old name, Google My Business.
These updates aim to help businesses manage their online presence, connect with customers, and enhance their visibility on Google Search and Maps.
In this blog, we will dive into these new updates and features, what are they, and how they have impacted businesses of all sizes.
Whether you are a small local shop or a larger company, knowing about the updates can help you stay ahead in the digital world.
Google Business Profile: Overview and its Benefits
Google Business Profile is a free tool that businesses use to improve and solidify their online presence.
When a user searches for something related to your business or your business name, they may see your Google Business Profile (if highly optimized).
This profile includes important details like your business name, address, phone number, website, hours of operation, and much more.
A well-maintained Google Business Profile is essential because it makes it easier for potential customers to find you and learn more about your business.
Additionally, Google Business Profile gives you valuable insights into how people are interacting with your business online such as
- How many people are searching for you?
- How many are calling your number?
- How many are clicking through to your website?
This information can help you make better business decisions and fine-tune your marketing strategies.
Google Business Profile Updates 2024
Google is continuously improving its systems to improve its search results so that users get what they want. This time it’s the Google Business Profile tool that is being updated. Let us have a look at some important updates and features that have been done in Google Business Profile.
Google Business Website Shutdown
Before March 2024, Business owners who have a Google Business Profile could create a basic and simple website through Google Web Builder Tools. But after March 2024 Google discontinued this feature and redirects were available until June 10, 2024.
To continue having a strong online presence, Google suggests transitioning to alternative website builders.
Popular choices include Wix, WordPress, and Shopify, all known for their ease of use and robust features.
Other good alternatives are Squarespace, Weebly, and GoDaddy, which also offer customizable templates and user-friendly interfaces.
These platforms provide various tools to help businesses build and maintain professional websites, ensuring a smooth transition from Google Business Profiles.
Confused what to do? Don’t worry! Get Catalyzed is here to handle all your technical website issues. We are your stop solution for all kinds of website development services so that your business can stand out in the digital landscape. Contact our experts today for quality website development services.
Shut Down of Chat/Message Feature:-
Google removed the chat feature from Google Business Profile, with the change taking effect by July 31, 2024.
Beginning on July 15, businesses will no longer be able to start new conversations through this chat function.
Google understands that this change may affect how businesses interact with their customers and wants to assure everyone that they remain dedicated to supporting businesses through other means.
Despite the removal of the chat feature, customers will still have several ways to connect with businesses.
They will be able to find and reach out to businesses using Google Search and Maps.
Additionally, businesses can continue to provide valuable information to their customers, such as website links, business descriptions, and photos, all of which will still be accessible on their Business Profiles.
Google is committed to ensuring that businesses can still effectively engage with their customers through these alternative methods.
Adding Social Media Profiles to Google My Business
Another helpful update is the ability to add links to your social media profiles directly to your Google Business Profile.
This means you can now include buttons or links to your Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or other social media pages on your profile.
This feature makes it easier for customers to find and follow your social media accounts, helping you build a more connected and engaged online community.
Having all your social media links in one place not only makes it convenient for your customers but also helps create a consistent brand experience across different platforms.
Whether someone finds you through Google Search, Maps, or social media, they will have a clear and cohesive view of your business, which can boost trust and loyalty.
Google has mentioned some steps while sharing the update about how to add social media links to your Google Business Profile.
The 2024 updates to Google Business Profile bring a range of new features that can greatly benefit businesses looking to improve their online presence.
By adding links to your social media pages and using enhanced review management tools, you can create a more dynamic and engaging online presence that attracts and retains customers.
Although about the shutdown of the chat feature, many webmasters are still finding the reason behind the action.
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, keeping up with these changes will be key to staying competitive and ensuring your business’s success in the long run.
Conclusion
In this blog, we have discussed the new updates and features integrated in 2024 by Google in their Google business profile tool. Here are the updates and features
- Google Business Website Shutdown
- Chat Feature Shutdown
- Integration Of Social Media Links in the GBP
The 2024 updates to Google Business Profile bring a range of different emotions among both parties i.e. business owners and webmasters.
Small Business owners won’t get their potential customers and webmasters have to find some solutions for the recovery of the loss.
The only way to tackle these challenges is by getting help from experts. Get Catalyzed is your one-stop – solution for your Google Business Profile Optimization.
Our team of Google Business Profile experts specialise in optimizing your profile to improve online visibility and connect with your target audience, ensuring your business stands out and attracts the right customers.
Partner with us to achieve your goal and keep reading to stay updated about the industry.
