Massive Changes To Google Business Profile in 2024
In the ever-evolving world of digital marketing, staying ahead of the curve is crucial for local businesses.
Recently, Google announced significant changes affecting Google Business Profiles that every dental practice needs to be aware of.
Upcoming changes in July: what you need to know
Removal of Call History and Chat Features
Starting in July, Google will remove both the Call History section and the Google Business Profile chat…Click to read more in a new tab… from business profiles. These features have been pivotal for businesses to track customer interactions and communicate directly with potential patients.
Impact on Customer Interaction
Losing these features could mean losing valuable insights into how patients find and reach out to your practice. Without the Call History, understanding how many potential patients called directly from your map listing will become more challenging.
Introducing Roadside Connect: a solution to Google’s changes
Customized CRM Tool: Roadside Connect is a customer relationship management tool that enables you to track and visualize the ROI of all your marketing efforts.
Features of Roadside Connect:
- Integrated call tracking to replace Google’s call insights.
- Integration with WhatsApp Business, allowing real-time chats with patients directly from your website—replacing the missing chat feature.
The importance of local SEO post-update
Recently leaked API documents have highlighted what factors Google includes in its search algorithm, emphasizing that local SEO significantly influences how businesses appear in search results.
Optimizing your online presence is now more critical than ever for a dental practice.
Why local SEO is more vital than ever
- Visibility: A well-optimized profile ensures that your practice appears prominently when potential patients search for dental services in your area.
- Credibility: High-ranking profiles are often perceived as more trustworthy and professional.
- Accessibility: Ensuring that your practice is easily found online means more patients through your doors.
Strategies to adapt and thrive
To adapt to these massive changes to Google Business Profile, focus on enhancing your local SEO strategy:
- Optimize Your Google Business Profile: Ensure all information is accurate and up-to-date.
- Gather Reviews: Encourage satisfied patients to leave positive reviews.
- Use Local Keywords: Make sure you’re using local keywords that your potential patients are likely to search for when looking for a dentist online.
- Engage Locally: Participate in local events and online forums to boost your local presence.
Embracing change with effective digital marketing
Your dental practice can thrive despite these changes by staying informed and adapting your digital marketing strategies.
Local SEO isn’t just important; it’s essential for your practice’s success in today’s digital landscape.
“In a crowded marketplace, fitting in is failing; in a busy marketplace, not standing out is the same as being invisible.”
– Seth Godin
Don’t be invisible—disrupt and be different with us.