As a digital marketer, I like to keep tabs on what is happening in the digital space and SEO world. So I was excited when in late July, Google quietly rolled out a “Get a Quote” button for businesses that have turned on messaging on their Google My Business (GMB) app. These buttons can be seen on the Knowledge Panel results only for branded searches. This means your customers can only see the buttons if they specifically search for your business.
A quick recap- Google My Business is a free tool that businesses or organizations can use to manage their online presence or listing across Google including Search or Maps. By using GMB, you as business owner, are taking charge of what people see when they do a local search for your business or for businesses similar to yours. GMB also allows you to not only update your business profile but also interact with your customers, understand more about their habits and share helpful information about your business.
The new quote request button has added another novel way for you to engage with your customers. Now in addition to being able to share, call or get directions to your business or access your website, your customers can also get a quote for the products or services they would like to purchase from you.
How Should Local Businesses Respond to this?
In order for your business to take full advantage of this and other developments to the GMB platform, you first need to download the GMB app and switch on the messaging feature, regardless of your business type and niche.
With Google showing serious focus and intent on improving and building up the GMB platform to allow better communication and interaction between business and customers, you can’t afford to be left behind.
I am sure that the “Get a Quote” button is only one among many other potential quote related features soon to be introduced to GMB that will help automate some aspects of the messaging process between your business and your customers.
This means you’ll have to consider two things: Firstly, how comfortable are you using the same A.I that your competitors also use to deliver your quotes and messages to your customers? Secondly, do you want your business to stand out by adding a personal touch to your communication with customers or would you rather choose the time-saving benefits of automated messages? That’s up to you to decide.
Give your Local Business a Boost In Leads
I have extensive experience helping businesses improve their digital presence and bottom line using marketing engagement options that fit their needs. Take a look at my marketing case studies then schedule a consultation with me today to see how we can work together to give your business a boost.