Google recently announced the suspension of some Google My Business (GMB) features so that they can limit the need for onsite team members and focus their resources on helping critical healthcare and supply chain services through the pandemic.
“As a precautionary health measure for our support specialists in light of COVID-19, we're operating with a limited team,” says Google’s recent post about the situation, “Our current focus is on the quality and reliability of the information on Google Search and Maps.”
Google My Business functionalities that are currently suspended include business information edits, newly created listings, claims, and verifications, reviews, and Q&A. Delays should be expected for any businesses that don’t fall into the category of critical health services. New reviews, Q&A sections, and user-generated content have also been suspended in many cases. On the other hand, businesses now have the option to add “takeout available” or delivery available to their business names, as well as access to a COVID-19 updates tab to keep customers aware of any changes made during the pandemic.
The COVID-19 pandemic is ravaging the world economy, but small businesses are hit the hardest. One such business, KissPR, understands how difficult it is, especially for those businesses that rely on foot traffic to sustain their livelihood. Qamar Zaman, the CEO, and founder of the Dallas-based digital growth consultancy shared a list of countermeasures his team is staying afloat during the COVID-19 crisis. Read on to find out what they’re doing.
1. Practicing the reciprocity principle by offering free PR for local and small Businesses
2. Encouraging businesses to continue their SEO efforts
3. Offering their existing clients new website redesigns
4. Leveling up social media activity while potentials are stuck at home.
5. Developing new content ideas with free tools, such as YouTube and Instagram.
6. Investing in Google Ads while competition is low.
7. Starting Google retargeting and Facebook retargeting campaigns so that customers can buy when they are ready.
8. Staying ahead on reputation management and monitoring
9. Helping law firms that are struggling to get quality cases.
Zaman further stressed that these are the times that business owners’ mindset is being tested. He challenges every one of them to break the mold and forge ahead. If you are a small business that needs help with Google My Business, speak with a GMB expert today.
