Brand exposure and brand awareness are two of the most important factors when owning a business. The Google My Business platform is a free tool that allows businesses to list their services and provide their company information for the general public to view, which then creates a pathway to a consumer purchase.
For 2019 Google has released new features and updates to Google My Business. These are designed to ensure every business, but especially those building their online presence, gets the most out of the online platform, strengthening connections between retailers and consumers.
Customer Rewards
One new feature just added to Google My Business is the customer rewards function. The customer rewards function is similar to an introductory reward feature, providing customers with an incentive or a special offer after opting to ‘follow’ your business. ‘Following’ is useful, as it keeps consumers up-to-date and informed when new material has been posted. An example of incentives or special offers would be: ‘20% off’ coupons or ‘Free Shipping for first-time customers’.
Profile Customisation
To make your business profile more engaging, Google My Business has added new ways to customise business profiles. New cover photos and prominent logo displays can be added, but only if core profile information has been included on your business profile. This process actually enhances engagement levels and brand awareness, as evidence indicates that existing and potential customers will perceive your business profile as complete and ‘good-looking’.
Short URLs
Google My Business has now produced a feature which is able to shorten your business URL. This helps when delivering marketing materials, or referring customers to a short and easier to remember URL address. A shortened URL is not only more easily remembered, but also more pleasing to the eye.
Business Recognition
Google My Business wants to make sure you obtain optimum recognition from their online platform, to assist with the growth of your business. Google My Business will be recognising and rewarding businesses by highlighting the top five percent of businesses in a specified category in your local business designated area. With this new feature, digital and physical badges of honour will be implemented to chosen business, strengthening consumer engagement and awareness.
It makes good business sense to put in the effort and increase your online presence by utilising the new features and updates to promote brand exposure and awareness. A little bit of commitment and use of all the new features and updates can go a long way and make your business stand out in in the ever-growing digital marketing world.