With an increasing reliance on Google for local searches, having a well-optimized Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is essential for businesses to stay competitive. Google regularly updates its platform, introducing new features to help businesses enhance visibility and customer engagement.
In this guide, we’ll highlight the most impactful recent updates to Google Business Profile, explain how your business can take advantage of these features, and provide links to official Google resources for further reading.
Latest Google Business Profile Updates for 2025:
- Video Verification: Google has simplified the verification process by introducing video verification. Businesses can quickly verify their profiles by recording a video showcasing their physical location. This streamlined method accelerates the verification process, making it easier for new businesses to get started.
- Review QR Codes: Google now enables businesses to create QR codes directly linked to their reviews page, making it convenient for customers to leave feedback. Businesses can print these codes for display at their location, simplifying the customer review process and potentially increasing the number of positive reviews.
- Enhanced Communication via WhatsApp: Google has added WhatsApp integration, allowing businesses to include WhatsApp as a direct contact option on their profile. Customers can now conveniently communicate with businesses through WhatsApp, enhancing customer service and responsiveness.
- Mandatory Verification for Local Services Ads: Since November 21, 2024, businesses are required to verify their Google Business Profile to run Local Services Ads. This move helps ensure business authenticity and enhances consumer trust. The verification process can take several days, so plan accordingly.
- AI-Enhanced Menus and Services: Businesses in specific industries, like restaurants and salons, can now leverage AI-driven features to manage and display their menus and service lists. This update automates content updates and ensures accurate, appealing listings to attract customers effectively.
- Google Guarantee Badge: The Google Guarantee badge is a trust indicator showing that Google backs your business. It requires businesses to pass Google’s rigorous verification process via Local Services Ads. The badge reassures customers of quality and reliability, offering compensation up to a defined limit if dissatisfied with the service.
Final Thoughts
Google will continue updating its platform with features aimed at improving visibility and user interaction. Businesses should regularly review their Google Business Profile to leverage new features effectively. Staying proactive ensures your business maintains high visibility, attracts customers, and grows successfully.
FAQs
Q1: How do I add appointment links to my Google Business Profile?
A: To add appointment links, sign in to your Google Business Profile, click ‘Edit Profile,’ then select ‘Booking’ to insert your URL. Customers can then directly make reservations or appointments from Google.
Q2: What should I include in my Google Business Profile health announcement?
A: Your announcements can include updates on business hours, temporary closures, safety measures, or special operating guidelines (e.g., COVID-19-related adjustments). These announcements are highly visible to customers.
Q3: Can I still make custom categories on Google Business Profile?
A: Google provides extensive standard categories (over 4,000) but does not support entirely custom categories. You can, however, select multiple applicable categories to accurately represent your business.
Q3: What’s the importance of having a verified Google Business Profile?
A: Verification confirms the authenticity of your business, builds trust with customers, enables eligibility for Local Services Ads, and improves your visibility in Google search results.
Conclusion:
Google continuously enhances Google Business Profile, making it essential for businesses to stay informed and proactive. Leveraging these latest updates ensures your business remains prominent in local search results, enhancing visibility and customer interactions. For comprehensive information and guidance, always refer to Google’s official support documents:
Tali is a results-driven digital marketer with a track record of growing her clients’ businesses and driving revenue.
As the business owner at WSI Digital Path, Vaughan, she takes great pride in delivering powerful but cost-effective solutions for her clients.
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