The novel coronavirus has affected most aspects of everyday life for people around the world. The use of masks has been mandated in many public places. Social distancing has changed how we interact with those around us. Online ordering has skyrocketed, while brick and mortar businesses struggle to stay afloat.

 

At Adams Media Group, we know the challenges facing business owners right now. We’re facing them too! Even though times are tough, now is not the time to give up. We must remain resilient, be proactive, and weather this storm together. To lend a helping hand to our fellow small business owners, we have tips on how to use Google My Business tools to reach your customers during the COVID-19 pandemic. The best part is that these tools are completely free!

 

COVID-19 Updates

 

You may have noticed COVID-19 updates appearing on Google My Business (GMB) pages. This feature allows companies to share important information or changes related to the coronavirus, such as safety precautions they are taking. Businesses can also update customers on their new operating hours, and restaurants can indicate if they are offering dine-in, takeout, delivery, or curbside pickup.

 

Support Feature

 

There is now an option on GMB to activate a support feature so customers can choose to “Donate” or Buy a Gift Card.” This allows people to support their favorite local businesses with the click of a button on their Google Maps app.

 

Online Care

 

A lot of people aren’t aware of the new features Google has recently rolled out. The first feature we’d like to touch on is online care. This is a great tool for health care providers. With the influx of people seeking medical care and the public’s reluctance to being exposed to potentially ill patients, virtual care is a great solution. Physicians can “see” patients through video conferencing or over the phone. Patients can stay in the comfort of their own homes, keeping both the patient and the health care staff safe from spreading the virus. Check out Google’s blog about the online care options, now available on GMB pages.

 

More Online Options

 

Other new and helpful GMB features include online appointments, online classes, and online estimates. These options are useful for a variety of merchants, ranging from gyms to schools to home repair businesses. Google released these tools to help small businesses during these trying times. Taking advantage of the free GMB features applicable to your business is a no-brainer.

 

At Adams Media Group, our talented team of marketing experts can strategize a game plan to help your business survive and thrive during the pandemic. We offer a variety of advertising solutions, such as web design, brand development, video production, graphic design, digital marketing, and much more. We are located in Vero Beach, FL, and serve clients all over the United States. Contact us today to find out how we can help you grow your business.