Google will be ending the chat and call history features in Google Business Profile on July 31, 2024. Information from Google says that they will stop allowing new chats to be initiated starting on July 15, 2024 and then will totally disable the chat and call history features on July 31, 2024.
Background
Google Search and Maps have offered a Business Messages capability that allowed customers to contact businesses via text chat. This feature will now be discontinued in July. For businesses that enabled this feature, a “Chat” button appeared in listings on Google Search and Maps, facilitating chat conversations with the business, including the ability to send/receive images.
Messages sent through Google Account were stored and encrypted with Google Cloud, keeping users’ phone numbers private. Only names and profile pictures (if set) were shared with businesses.
Official Announcement
Recently Google announced that this feature will be stopped. Businesses receives the mail, that says:
“We are reaching out to share that we will be winding down Google’s chat and call history features in Google Business Profile on July 31, 2024. We acknowledge this may be difficult news – as we continually improve our tools, we occasionally have to make difficult decisions which may impact the businesses and partners we work with. It’s important to us that Google remains a helpful partner as you manage your business and we remain committed to this mission.”
Dates to Remember
So, at July the 15th, 2024: Searchers will no longer be able to start new chat conversations with your business from Google Maps or Google Search. However, searchers that are already in existing chat conversations will be notified that chat will be phased out.
then, at July the 31th, 2024: The chat functionality in Google Business Profile will end completely and you will no longer receive new chat messages. You will also no longer be able to see your Google Business Profile call history in Google Business Profile.
What You Should Do
If you used these features for your business, you should be aware they are going away soon. You may want to download your chat and call history before the deadline, so that you can archive that data in your CRM software and database, or store them somewhere else.
As an alternative to Google Business Messages you can use other channels of communication, as phone, other messengers, social media or Reserve with Google function.
Consider Getpin’ Solution
For your convenience and in order to save resources, we propose you to use Getpin’ solution. It allows you to manage your listing on Search and Maps, social media and other platforms. Additionally, useful statistics are available.
For more detailed information contact us on the website, on social media or just ask your Getpin’ manager.
Google Business Profile Verification Methods: Tips and Tricks
Verification of your business profile on Google
If you are a business owner, you have probably wondered how to create a company profile on Google, claim ownership of your business on Google, and go through the business account verification process.
At first glance, the procedure may seem quite simple, as Google provides clear instructions on verifying a business profile. However, in practice, it is often not so straightforward. Many people have trouble verifying their account for various reasons and, as a result, seek help with verifying their company profile.
In this article, we will discuss possible ways to verify your business profile, address the issues you may encounter, and explain what to do if you need help verifying your location on Google Maps.
Why is it so important to verify your business profile on Google?
You will have the ability to update information about your location on Google.
You will have the ability to maintain the accuracy of data at your location on Google.
You will gain more trust in your location on Google from your customers.
You will be protected from third-party changes to your Google locations. (If your location is not verified, any changes proposed by third parties can be made automatically. If you are a verified location owner, you have the ability to accept or reject changes proposed by others.)
The first and most important reason for verifying your business profile:
You will be able to manage information about your business in Search, on Maps, and other Google services only when you verify it. Google needs to confirm the physical location of your company and ensure that you have the right to own such a profile.
Only after Google verifies the company’s location, you will be able to:
Make changes to business information on all Google services
View profile statistics
Upload new images
Post updates
Respond to customer reviews
Add links to social networks (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, TikTok, X (ex. Twitter) та YouTube) in the Map profile
Additionally, information about the business profile on Google (including proximity of location, categories, keywords in the business name, etc.) enhances the company’s rating in local search. This means that if you have a business profile on Google, your chances of appearing in local search are much higher. Therefore, it is important to control the information displayed in the business profile of your company on Google.
Another reason why having a company profile on Google is important is that, according to Google, a verified business is more likely to be considered reliable by users. Company profiles for Google appear more reliable when they are optimized and edited by location owners themselves, rather than automatically by third-party edits.
Finally, verifying your business will protect it from those who try to impersonate your company and claim its profile. This is a basic example of fraud, so make sure you have protected your business account from such cases.
A verified business profile on Google has a blue checkmark with the text “You manage this business profile” under the business name, indicating that Google has verified this profile as a credible representation of the business.
Remember that only the account manager of this verified profile can see this checkmark, and only when logging into their account. Regular users browsing business profiles in search won’t see it.
If your business profile was created by someone else or if you notice that your company’s Google account is not verified, it’s better to verify your location immediately. To do this, you need to claim ownership of the company’s business profile and go through the business verification process.
After registering or claiming the business, Google will offer you one or several of the following methods to verify the business profile. If you receive only one option, you cannot change it, but if you see multiple options, you can choose the method that suits you best.
There are several ways to verify a business profile on Google.
Postal Mail Verification
This method is the most common way to verify a business. Sending a verification code via physical mail not only allows Google to accurately determine the business’s location but also confirms its existence.
The delivery process typically takes up to two weeks, depending on the region, but sometimes it may take longer.
Keep in mind that the verification process will take much longer if you change business information (such as the business name, address, category, etc.) before verification. Also, avoid requesting a new code, as Google will need to cancel the initial code in the postcard and send a new one, prolonging the process. Additionally, Google does not send any confirmation letters to rented PO boxes.
Members of the Google Business Profile community report that their first attempt to receive a verification code by mail was unsuccessful, and they were only able to successfully receive the verification code from Google after the second or even third attempt. If your letter is lost or misplaced, you can request a new code by logging into your Google Business profile, navigating to the verification code page, and clicking the blue “Resend” button.
It’s worth noting that letters of this kind can often be mistaken for advertising mail and may be discarded, so it’s best to inform everyone in your company (or even in the building) that you are expecting a letter of confirmation from Google.
Verification via Phone Call or SMS
Some, but not all, businesses will have the option to verify their Google Business Profile listing via phone. If this option is available to you, consider yourself fortunate, as this process only takes a few minutes.
You can choose the option of receiving a phone call or a text message on your phone. The system will send a 5-digit code that needs to be entered into the code field. Use your actual phone number, as you will need to answer calls directly (you cannot use automated voice menu systems) or receive text messages.
Unfortunately, there are several real stories on the Google Business Profile community forum related to scam phone calls from people claiming to work at Google, so be vigilant.
Keep in mind that during a verification call, Google will NEVER:
Charge for services related to the Google Business Profile listing
Ask for your passwords, verification codes, or any other personal information
Offer to enhance your Google Business Profile listing
During a verification call from a genuine Google representative, you only need to listen to your verification code and write it down for future use.
Email Verification
If your business falls into a category eligible for this verification method, you will see the option “Verify by email” after starting the verification process.
Before clicking “Verify now,” make sure that the email address displayed on the verification screen is correct and that you have access to it.
After that, open your mailbox and find the email from your Google Business Profile. It contains the verification code and a link to the Google Business Profile page where you can activate it.
Instant Verification
Another great option available to business owners is instant verification. Choose this option if it is one of the options provided, as it allows you to quickly verify your profile. Why wait for a letter when you can instantly verify your business profile on Google!
According to Google, if your website is already verified in Google Search Console, you meet the requirements for instant verification. This means that you will not see the “Get Verification” button and can immediately work with customers on your profile and content.
Remember that using Google Search Console does not guarantee instant verification of your Google Business Profile. Google has the right to decide whether to offer you this verification option or not.
Google offers instant verification to those businesses it considers reliable. If you own a new business or a business with few online mentions and links to your site, instant verification of your business is unlikely. In such cases, sending a letter is the best way for Google to verify your business.
To use instant verification, sign in to Google Business Profile with the same account you use for Google Search Console.
Direct Video Call
If your business meets the requirements for verification via video call, using this method should not be a problem.
Verification via video call is conducted through a video chat with a Google specialist.
If you own a retail business, a Google representative may want to check your workspace, logo, equipment, public area, certain types of your business documents, and even meet some of your employees or clients.
If you operate a service-based business, you may need to show your branded work vehicle, license plates, and tools you use to provide services. Make sure you can showcase your business positively and prove that you are the owner before starting the video call.
Another important point is to schedule the video call according to the time zone for your region and language.
Video Recording
If Google gives you the option to verify your business profile on Google through video recording, consider shooting a short video to demonstrate your business, confirm that your business location exists, and verify that the person undergoing verification (you) has the authority to manage the company’s accounts.
Before starting the verification, plan the video recording. You need to capture a panoramic view of the interior and exterior of the business location, including the storefront, street view, and signs. Additionally, you should show your equipment, marketing materials, areas accessible only to employees, etc.
Bulk Verification
This option is available for companies that require verification of more than 10 locations of a single business simultaneously. For example, if you own a chain of cafes with 25 locations.
Let’s go through step by step how to conduct bulk verification of your locations:
Access your Google business profile using a manager account.
2. Create a group of locations by adding all available locations of your company to it.
3. Ensure that all your locations are created under one Google account. Additionally, it’s important to have information about the number of locations (branches) of your business on the corporate website. The data on the number of locations for verification and the number of business locations on the company’s website should match.
4. Verify the accuracy of the locations listed in your profile. Remove duplicated locations in different location groups or those that are permanently closed. Also, check the correct name and specified business category. Locations that are suspended or temporarily closed should remain in the profile if they are listed on your website.
5. Initiate a request for mass verification by clicking on “Verification” in the left menu, then selecting “Network”. Once you start the verification, you will see a form for mass verification. Fill out the form, providing answers about your business.
6. Wait for confirmation of your locations, which may take up to several weeks. If the status of your locations changes, Google will notify you by email.
We’ve covered all possible ways to verify your profile in Google Business Profile, but the verification process doesn’t always go smoothly. If you encounter an unusual situation or have questions about creating a business account and verifying it on Google, you can always contact Getpin for assistance.
Restore Your GBP Website In Minutes.
Or How to Stay Visible in the Online Space?
As of March 5, 2024, Google has discontinued support for single-page websites created through Google Business Profile. Consequently, domains ending in business.site and negocio.site have been removed. When attempting to access such a website, customers will be redirected to the company’s business profile.
The redirection to the company profile is temporary and will only work until June 10, 2024. After this date, customers clicking on the link will receive a “Page Not Found” error message.
What is the value of a website for business?
The website plays a crucial role in the efficient operation of a business, facilitating various functions:
Image formation and trust building: Consumers often search for information about companies and their products or services online. Having a quality website positions the company as a reliable and professional partner, contributing to increased trust in the brand.
Interaction with the target audience: The website allows the company to interact with its target audience through various channels such as blogs, social media, feedback forms, etc. This helps create a community around the brand, communicate with customers, and receive important feedback.
Traffic generation: The website is an important tool for attracting new clients and audience. By optimizing content for search engines (SEO), placing advertisements, and implementing other marketing strategies, the company can attract targeted traffic to its website.
Sales channel: For many companies, the website becomes a vital sales channel. This can be e-commerce, where customers can make purchases online, or simply a place where customers can find information about the company’s products and services and contact them for additional information or to place an order.
How to increase organic traffic and not lose potential revenue?
Having a properly optimized website positively impacts its interaction with search engine algorithms, thereby enhancing your business’s online visibility and attracting a larger flow of clients.
It is quite common for blog pages, general company information, or competitor websites to appear in local search results instead of personalized information pages specifically about the location the client was searching for.
For instance, when a user searches for “Cafe ‘XXX’ in Ostpark,” they may receive results such as job openings or information about food delivery from Cafe ‘XXX,’ rather than the desired information. Consequently, these results do not align with the user’s intent. In most cases, the user will not expend additional effort to search and may opt for a competitor instead, leading to potential customer and revenue loss for the business.
Another example illustrates how companies miss out on potential website traffic.
For example, when conducting a local search query like “Ukrposhta Brovary,” it’s evident that third-party websites garner the majority of the traffic instead of the official Ukrposhta website.
Conversely, when examining the query “Nova Poshta Brovary,” it’s noticeable that the primary search results direct users to the Nova Poshta website.
Therefore, for a more quality representation of your business in local search queries, we recommend creating web pages for each individual location.
In the Getpin account, it’s easy to create a web page based on the information provided in your Google Business Profile (GBP). This process is fast, convenient, and doesn’t require significant resources.
Getpin will provide you with:
Creation of a separate page for each location;
Synchronization of content on the page and maps;
Hosting of pages;
Page visit reporting;
Reporting on customer actions on the page.
In the web page settings, you have the ability to:
Set age restrictions for page visits.
Customize the header and footer color, font type and size, add a clickable logo, and more.
Add a unique description of your business.
Configure the display of the latest news from GBP.
SEO settings: titles, keywords, descriptions, etc.
*It is worth remembering that SEO settings provide search engines with brief information about the page. Properly filling out these parameters enhances the relevance of pages and increases the chances of your site ranking higher in search results for relevant queries.
SEO optimization of images: add descriptions with relevant keywords.
Add a tag for tracking Google Analytics. This helps evaluate the effectiveness of the site and track conversions.
Remember that your company profile on Google is a powerful tool for presenting your business. You can share important information, news, links to social media, attract customers’ attention with photos, and indicate convenient ways to contact you. However, for this tool to benefit your business effectively, it is crucial to maintain the relevance of the information provided in the business profile and promptly respond to customer inquiries.
To achieve this goal, we recommend using the efficient and convenient solution offered by Getpin. In the Getpin dashboard, you can easily manage your company profile and locations not only on Google but also respond to messages and reviews from various platforms and social media such as Facebook and Instagram. You don’t need to log into different accounts separately; all actions are available in the unified Getpin dashboard.
For more detailed information, please contact a Getpin manager.
Boosting local sales of your business offline locations:
Google Merchant Center empowers local entrepreneurs!
Local entrepreneurs now have the opportunity to promote their business effectively and free of charge through the link between their Google Business Profile (GBP) and Merchant Center.* This innovation opens up wider perspectives for developing their businesses and for attracting new customers to their offline locations, using different online tools.
Tools that allow them to promote locally their products, by Local meaning showing their offline locations where products can be available within a radius of max 50 kilometres from the user.
Google Merchant Center: What is it and how to use it?
Google Merchant Center is a tool created for businesses selling products online. The platform allows convenient management and promotion of your offline store and products in shopping ads across various Google services.
Where can information about products be displayed?
By enabling free placement of information about products from the local assortment, your offers may appear on various Google resources:
Google Search
Alongside with search results suggestions may appear when users use Google Search to find information about products, sellers, and/or a specific brand. They contain basic information about the product, price, reviews, and availability.
Google Shopping
Information about local assortment products can be placed in the “Shopping” section. Results are displayed as ads on mobile devices and computers in all countries where this feature is activated.
This helps shoppers find items in stores nearby. Additionally, it may include useful data such as store contact information, working hours , product availability, pricing, approximate distance from the shopper, and routes.
Company Profile on Google Maps
Information about products available in your offline stores can be also displayed in the company’s profile on Google Maps. Users have in this case access to images, price, brief product description, having in the same time the the possibility to call directly or get directions to the store.
Images
Information about products can be displayed in the “Images” section also. Merchant Center allows to present your products in a catalogue format, displaying information such as the name, description, price, images, and other attributes of the products, when users are searching them.
Google Lens
With Google Lens, shoppers can select a specific object or area in an image to view similar products available for sale. The “Product” label on the image indicates its availability for purchase.
Steps to Link Your Google Business Profile and Merchant Center:
Update your Google Business Profile:
Ensure that your Google Business Profile contains complete and up-to-date information and, if necessary, add photos and essential details about your business.
2. Register on Merchant Center:
If you haven’t used Merchant Center before, create an account and link it to your Google account.
3. Connect Your Profile to Merchant Center:
In the Merchant Center settings, choose the option to connect with your Google Business Profile and follow the instructions to link your account with the necessary group of locations.
4. Activate the Free Local Assortment Placement Program:
Select the section “Information about products from the local assortment, placed for free“.
5. Add information about local assortment products:
To display products in the local assortment, create a separate feed with local items in Merchant Center. Afterward, they can appear on various Google platforms.
How to evaluate the effectiveness of product placement in the Merchant Center?
To evaluate the effectiveness you have the ability to view reports on the performance of your product listings. These reports are available for your entire assortment as well as individual products. They contain information about the volume of traffic, clicks, and impressions generated through the free product placement.
Additionally, you can utilize third-party web analytics tools such as Google Analytics by setting up tracking on your website or application beforehand.
Availability:
Currently, this feature is available to sellers with offline stores in Australia, Austria, Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, Great Britain, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Greece, Denmark, Israel, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Spain, Italy, Canada, Colombia, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, Germany, New Zealand, Norway, United Arab Emirates, South Africa, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Korea, Russia, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Slovakia, USA, Thailand, Taiwan, Turkey, Hungary, Ukraine, Philippines, Finland, France, Czech Republic, Chile, Switzerland, Sweden, and Japan*.
The connection between your Google Business Profile and Merchant Center allows free and effective promotion of products across various Google resources, ensuring maximum visibility among the local audience.
If you need assistance setting up your Merchant Center profile, please contact your Getpin manager.
