Google Maps continues to roll out more features to make the app more than just a means to search for places. In its recent update, users can now stay up-to-date with their favourite places and discover new ones.
We take a closer look at the latest additions and how this can benefit your GMB listing:
“Follow” feature – New way to engage with Google My Business users
Google Maps adds the “Follow” button to business listings in the app, which is similar to how you follow someone’s Facebook page or Twitter account. This way, users won’t miss out on special offers, upcoming events, and other updates from places they love. They will know when their favourite stores are holding a sale or when their go-to dining spots are holding happy hours. Once they hit the “Follow” button, all the latest news will show up in the “For You” tab, which is where they can access Google’s business recommendations based on their consumer and search history.
This feature is available on Android in some countries, with more countries coming soon. There’s no announcement when it’s going to be supported iOS, but it will probably get released in no time.
List your business in advance
Planning to open a new store? Fortunately, you can now set up your local business listing in Google My Business three months prior to your opening date so you can give users a heads up. This gives you the exposure you need to attract potential customers online and gain a competitive advantage as early as possible. Once users find your business in Google Maps for Android and mobile search, they can look out for your opening date in orange and mark their calendars.
What these updates mean for you
These updates are intended to improve the way users plan their trips and discover the hidden gems of the city. More importantly, these features allow businesses to start building their online presence so they can grow customer relationships early and become the next top local spot.
For these reasons, it’s important to be active in Google My Business more than ever. It’s the perfect platform to focus your early efforts by letting you manage how you appear in Google Search and Maps. You should make the most of GMB posts to get your hottest news, offers, and events into the feeds of users. This can easily set you apart from the competition.
Haven’t jumped on board yet? DigitalMaas can set up and update your Google Business listing so you can begin cementing your local SEO footprint. You can also run a website audit in our digital marketing platform to learn all the areas for improvement in your site. Let us help you soar high in the search results with our SEO solutions. Sign up to our digital marketing platform today for free.
