Boost Local Sales: Use Google Business Profile Chat with Customers
- Hookle
- May 6
- 4 min read
Table of Content
Bonus Tip: Manage All Your Socials & Google in One App
If you're looking for simple, free ways to attract more local customers, you're in the right place. One of the most overlooked tools small business owners can use is Google Business Profile's chat feature.
When someone finds your business on Google Search or Maps, they can instantly message you with questions - and you can respond in real time.
Quick and personal connection builds trust and often leads to more sales
This quick and personal connection builds trust and often leads to more sales. In this blog, you’ll learn what Google Business Profile is, why it matters, and how to use its chat feature to turn curious searchers into loyal customers.
What Is Google Business Profile?
Google Business Profile (GBP) is a free tool that lets you manage how your business appears on Google Search and Maps. It shows key details like your address, opening hours, reviews, contact info, and photos.
Google Profile lets you manage how your business appears on Google Search and Maps
Think of it as your digital storefront on Google - available 24/7, even when your physical shop is closed. Customers use it to learn about your business, find directions, read reviews, and, with chat enabled, send you a message directly.
Don’t have a Google Business Profile yet? No worries - it’s free and easy to set up here.
What Is the Benefit of the Profile?
Using Google Business Profile comes with several valuable benefits, especially for small businesses:
Benefits:
Increased Visibility: Your business shows up when customers search for services or products in your area.
Builds Trust: A complete profile with good reviews and photos gives potential customers confidence.
Direct Customer Engagement: The chat feature allows real-time messaging between you and potential customers.
Customer Insights: GBP gives you data on how customers interact with your profile - like how many called, clicked your website, or viewed photos.
Free Promotion: You can post updates, offers, and events to keep your customers informed - all without spending a cent.
How to Use GBP Chat to Attract More Customers
Ready to use chat to grow your business? Here are simple, actionable steps - let's dive in!
1. Turn On the Chat Feature
First, you need to enable the chat feature. Google previously had its own messaging tool, but that has now been sunset. Today, you can use either WhatsApp or SMS to chat with your customers.
To enable chat (steps may vary by device):
Open your business in the Google Maps or Google Search app.
Tap on More > Edit business info > Chat.
Select WhatsApp or SMS, and add the required details.
Save your changes.
This allows customers to message you directly from your Google Business Profile.
2. Write a Welcome Message
Set a short, friendly auto-reply that sets expectations. Example: "Hi! Thanks for contacting [Your Business Name]. We'll get back to you shortly!".
3. Respond Quickly
Quick replies build trust and can help you secure the sale. They directly impact how customers perceive your service and most likely lead to better reviews. Google may deactivate the chat feature if responses are too slow - so aim to reply within 24 hours or sooner.
4. Pre-Prepare Answers
Save time by having templates for common questions like pricing, availability, or directions. This lets you reply fast without typing the same thing repeatedly.
5. Keep the Tone Friendly
Even short replies should feel human. Avoid overly formal language - be approachable and helpful. This is especially important if you're using AI tools like ChatGPT to craft responses.
Avoid overly formal language, even short replies should feel human
Stay friendly, even when handling negative reviews - they're a chance to improve your business in the long run.
6. Share Business Updates
The example above from Rising Dragon Tattoo in New York shows how you can use Google Business Profile effectively. You can even choose different call-to-action (CTA) buttons like Book, Buy, Order, and more - as shown with “Book” in the example.
Posts keeps your business looking active and up to date
Use the “Posts” section in your profile to share updates like promotions, events, or announcements. This keeps your business looking active and up to date - and helps drive more contact requests or complete sales if customers have questions.
7. Ask for Reviews After Good Conversations
After a positive interaction through chat, politely ask the customer to leave a review. Reviews help boost your credibility and visibility.
Manage All Your Socials & Google in One App
While Google Business Profile chat is a powerful tool, your customers also spend time on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X. Managing all these channels can feel overwhelming - especially when you’re already busy running your business. That’s where social media management tools like Hookle come in.
Hookle lets you manage all your socials, including Google Business Profile, in one place
Hookle is a simple, easy-to-use app that lets you manage all your social media accounts - including Google Business Profile - from one place. You can schedule posts, get smart content suggestions, track performance, and manage your Google updates - all directly from your phone.
It’s built specifically for small business owners who want an efficient and stress-free way to stay active online without needing a marketing team.
Don’t just take our word for it - try it yourself. Download Hookle for free today and simplify your social media marketing.
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