Google Launches Google Maps and Search App
Google announced yesterday that the new Google Maps and Search app will replace Google My Business.
Read Google’s official announcement here.
Replaces Google My Business
We view this as an effort to streamline how businesses manage their profiles on Google. The new Maps and Search app from Google seems to integrate these traditional features of Google My Business:
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- Edit your profile: Easily update your business information, adjust your hours, or add a menu.
- Promote your business: Add photos or updates to stand out on Google.
- Connect with your customers: Connect with your customers by responding to reviews and questions.
Google says the functionality of the new app will vary depending on the operating system you’re using to access the Google Maps and Search app.
Implications for Local Search
A review of Google’s announcement suggests that this is more window dressing how businesses access and manage profiles than any major change in how profiles are claimed, verified, and even managed on an ongoing basis.
While there don’t seem to be any immediate impacts on best practices for local search and major business directories other than where you access your Google profiles, our local search experts are evaluating the new app and we will share any relevant updates along the way.
Why Local Search Matters
We’ve written extensively here in our Local Marketing blog about local search topics. In particular, we’ve shared our top tips for how to get Google to know you and show you.
Owning your business profile in directories like Google My Business is critical for on-line “findability,” and it’s one of the most inexpensive things you can do to increase traffic from local search.
We often find clients who haven’t paid attention to local search are missing the opportunity to grow website traffic as much as 1,100% over current levels. We’ll share our top ideas free. Just schedule a free marketing consultation here.
Local search is just one of the key components of your digital footprint. Want a free analysis of your business’ digital footprint? Just ask.
