Google My Business’s most recent update will change how people utilize the platform. This much-anticipated update will now allow all small businesses the ability to create “Google Posts” within the Google My Business (GMB) platform. This new feature will allow businesses to share offers, promotions, upcoming events, new and popular products. It can also help customers make a reservation, sign up for a newsletter, and much more.
Google Posts has previously been in an experimental phase, being tested by a select groups; in fact, “Google Posts” may not even be the official name of the service as it was originally called “candidate cards” when it first launched in January 2016 (it was only available to political candidates at the time). Now, the feature is available to all businesses.
Basically, this feature gives people control over content creation that goes directly on Google Search and Maps. For instance, it allows you to add information on your Google listings with details that are compelling to your customers, such as a new product or promotion. This benefits both parties; Google has more timely information and businesses can publish useful content that will likely rank higher when doing a branded search, resulting in more business.
How it works:
- Be sure your Google listings are claimed
- Go to the GMB Dashboard
- Select “Posts” on the left-side menu
- Create a post:
- Upload an image
- Write text (max 300 words)
- Add an event title
- A call-to-action button can also be added with things like “learn more,” “sign up,” “buy” etc.
Here is an example of how a Google post would appear in search:
Stand Out From the Crowd
With the addition of Google Posts, it is now more important than ever to ensure that businesses are not only claiming their listings but also actively updating and interacting with them. Maintaining healthy listings is a must to ensure a business will stand out amongst their competitors.
Interested in learning more? Get a local listings analysis from one of the experts at Go Local Interactive.
