What is it
Google added to some Google My Business profiles the option to integrate your listing with a Video Conferencing Solution provider. However…
Those listings with this option will see it in the dashboard, you will have a new box advising “Connect in real-time, with video. Grow your business and reach more customers, when you use video conferencing providers.”
When you press “Set up now” you can choose between 4 online video chat service providers:
- Google Meet
- Webex
- Skype
- Zoom
However, when you press on a provider only sends you to that service provider’s website…
Update 17 September 2020:
Google told Greg Sterling: “This functionality is a further extension of our online services announcement earlier this year. Merchants can already note on their Business Profiles that they offer virtual services and add links for booking online appointments. We’re testing some new functionality to help merchants easily get started with video conferencing providers so they can begin offering virtual services. There’s no change to what’s displayed on the Business Profile.”
Still not a clear explanation, I will keep updating this article on new developments.
Update 09 October 2020: Under the “Bookings” tab there are specific providers in a section called “Take your services online – Manage your bookings for online classes and appointments through a provider with video integration”
How to
You need to offer your services online, to activate this you go to your GMB’s dashboard and under “Stay Connected during COVID-19” select the type of online service you want to update (Online classes / Online appointments / Online estimates). Check more here.
Conclusion on this Google My Business Update
So I believe this feature was launched half-baked. But this probably means that Google wants to connect Google My Business listings with Online Services end to end.
Hopefully, customers will probably be able to book the service on Google and connect the customer with the local business through the listing, if video chat is used for the service booked.
Be Remarkakle!
References:
https://www.seroundtable.com/google-my-business-video-calling-conferencing-30063.html
https://support.google.com/business/answer/9907878
https://www.seroundtable.com/google-my-business-online-classes-video-30237.html