Boost Customer Engagement with Google Business Profile Chat: Now with SMS & WhatsApp Integration!

In today’s fast-paced digital world, customers expect instant communication when they search for businesses online. Google Business Profile (GBP) has taken customer interaction to the next level with its new chat feature, allowing businesses to integrate SMS or WhatsApp directly into their profile.

We are proud to announce that we are the first in the UK to see this update in action, giving us a unique advantage in understanding how it works and how it can transform customer service for businesses like yours.

Whether you’re a small local shop or a large service-based business, this update can enhance customer experience, improve response rates, and drive more conversions. Here’s everything you need to know about this powerful feature and how to set it up for your business!

What Is the New Google Business Profile Chat Feature?

Google has now enabled businesses to add a direct chat option to their Google Business Profile, giving customers an easy way to reach out in real time. Instead of making a call or sending an email, users can message your business instantly via:

✅ Text Messages (SMS) – Customers can send a message directly to your business phone number.
✅ WhatsApp URL – A direct link to your WhatsApp Business chat, allowing customers to connect via their favourite messaging app.

This integration makes it easier than ever to answer inquiries, schedule appointments, and provide quick customer support, all while improving engagement and building trust.

Why Is This a Game-Changer for Businesses?

As one of the first in the UK to witness this new feature rollout, we can confidently say that it has the potential to revolutionise how businesses communicate with customers.

Here’s why this update is a game-changer:

•  Instant Customer Support – Customers get quick responses without calling or waiting for an email reply.
•  Convenience – People prefer messaging over phone calls, making it more likely they’ll reach out.
•  Increased Engagement – Quick communication boosts customer satisfaction and increases conversion rates.
•  Better Lead Management – Responding to inquiries efficiently helps turn prospects into loyal customers.
• WhatsApp Business Features – If you use WhatsApp, you can automate replies, share product catalogs, and manage customer interactions seamlessly.

How to Enable Chat on Your Google Business Profile

Since we are among the first in the UK to explore this feature, we’ve tested the setup process to make it as easy as possible for you. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Log into Your Google Business Profile

• Visit Google Business Profile Manager and select the business you want to manage.

Step 2: Navigate to the Contact Section

• Under “Contact Information,” look for the Chat option.

Step 3: Choose Your Chat Option

• To enable SMS: Enter your business mobile number to receive text messages from customers.
• To enable WhatsApp: Add your WhatsApp Business link (URL) so customers can connect instantly.

Step 4: Turn on Chat Notifications

• Ensure you have notifications enabled so you don’t miss any messages from potential customers.

Step 5: Test Your Chat

• Send yourself a test message to make sure everything is working smoothly!

Best Practices for Using Google Business Profile Chat

As early adopters of this feature, we’ve gathered some key insights into how to make the most of it:

📌 Respond Quickly – Customers expect a reply within a few minutes. Set up automated responses if needed.

📌 Keep It Professional – Even though it’s chat, maintain a professional and friendly tone.

📌 Use WhatsApp Business Features– Set up greeting messages, quick replies, and product catalogs to enhance the experience.

📌 Encourage Reviews – After resolving a query, ask customers to leave a review on your profile.

📌 Promote Your Chat Option – Let customers know they can reach you easily via Google by mentioning it on your website and social media.

Real-Life Benefits: How This Feature Is Already Helping Businesses

Being the first in the UK to test this, we have already seen businesses benefiting in the following ways:

🔹 Increased Leads – Businesses are reporting a higher number of inquiries due to the easy-to-use chat function.

🔹 Higher Customer Satisfaction – Customers appreciate the convenience of quick messaging.

🔹 Faster Appointment Bookings – Service-based businesses are seeing an improvement in appointment scheduling efficiency.

🔹 Better Customer Retention – Businesses that engage quickly and effectively through chat build stronger customer loyalty.

Why Your Business Should Set Up Chat Today

Adding chat options to your Google Business Profile is a simple but powerful way to enhance customer interaction and drive more business. With SMS and WhatsApp integration, you can provide fast, convenient, and reliable communication that meets modern customer expectations.

💡 Don’t miss out on potential leads! Enable Google Business Chat today and start engaging with customers instantly.

📢 Let us know your experience DM us on Instagram @lovingsocialmedia! or contact us directly to get started. 🚀