Google My Business is now Google Business Profile

In an attempt to make things more clear Google has changed the name of Google My Business (GMB) to Google Business Profile (GBP). Moving forward this is the new name. They are integrating the GBP into Google Search and Google Maps. They have already changed the name inside of your profile manager.

Google Business Profile Manager

Sometime in 2022, they will retire the Google My Business name and app entirely.

What is New?

Google announces that now you can claim and verify your Business Profile directly on Google search or Google Maps. They are also adding the ability to message customers directly from Search. US and Canadian users can also use Call History to see which customers called directly from your Business Profile. You can also edit your business information, hours, products, and services directly from Search.

What Does This Mean For Me?

Google wants businesses with single locations to edit their Business Profile directly from Google Search or Google Maps. They are retiring the App and changing the Google My Business Console that we are used to using. They have said that the Console will be used to manage multiple locations. The biggest changes are simply how you access your account. This should be easier – just access directly from Search when you are logged into the correct account.

Your Business On Google

This is a screenshot from a desktop view of Search. Notice the Edit button – that allows me to edit all the information in my Profile. The Promote button is connected to Google Ads and the Customer button gives information on people that have called, messaged,  or visited your website from your Business profile.

The Customers button also gives access to Reviews and the Q&A sections. You can respond to reviews directly from Search and also answer any questions that were asked by people.

The Tiles in the above image give access to:

  • Creating an Ad
  • Adding an Update – this is the Post area which takes general updates and Events
  • Keep Customers Up To Date – this is where you would post extended hours,  closure dates, COVID policies
  • Get More Reviews gives a link to your review area directly for asking for reviews.

Overall this is an improvement. It is easier to keep your Business Profile updated and current. All the above items are also available on your cell phone.