Google My Business during COVID-19

With efforts to reduce office gatherings and to protect the safety of their team during these unprecedented times, staffing for Google My Business has been limited. As a result, there are temporary delays and support to review inquiries. Features are limited or are currently removed altogether during this unprecedented COVID-19 situation.

Existing information on Google My Business listings will still be visible. Adjustments can also be made to existing accounts such as the store hours, business descriptions and additional business information. Edits may be delayed as critical health-related businesses are taking precedent. New reviews, along with review replies and Q&A will not be published at this time. This is mainly due to Google taking the necessary precautions to verify that the information provided is from trusted sources prior to publications.

Businesses that are requesting new listings, claims and verifications may expect a delay as health-related businesses are prioritized as well. In effect, other businesses may expect a delay in the publication of new listings, claims and verifications.

How This Affects Review Champ?

Although new Google reviews will not be visible during this time, it is still advise to continue to initiate review requests from clients. Reviews and feedback will be published in the manner it which it was received once there are the resources to do so. Gaining online reviews and feedback from clients allows you to grow your business and increase exposure.

Staying connected to your clients and prospects are important at this time. Keep them informed and updated on current products, industry updates and services by publishing Google posts. Google posts allow you to post images and special offers to stay top of mind.

Lastly, ensure that the information on your Google My Business listing are up-to-date such at special store hours, relocations, and business attributes, if applicable.  Clients and prospects will stay informed and made aware of changes that are associated with the business.  On another note, reviews on Facebook are currently working accordingly and we have not seen changes or delayed response times. If you have any questions regarding Google My Business and/or Review Champ, please feel free to reach out to us. We are here to help!