What if I told you that potential customers can now message you directly from your Google Business Profile using WhatsApp or text? That’s right – Google has introduced a new feature that makes it easier for businesses to connect with customers instantly.
Google tried a messaging feature before, but it never really took off and was shut down in 2024. Meanwhile, WhatsApp exploded in the business world, so Google decided to integrate it directly into business profiles – along with SMS messaging. This feature was first tested in South America, then rolled out in the U.S. and Canada, and is now available worldwide.
So, should you enable it? Let’s break down the pros and cons.
Why You Should Enable Google’s WhatsApp & SMS Messaging
- Works Across Multiple Business Profiles – If you have more than one Google Business Profile, you can use the same WhatsApp link across all of them.
- Super Convenient for Customers – Not everyone wants to call a business or dig through a website for answers. A quick message is easier – especially for younger customers who prefer texting over calling.
- Higher Open Rates – 98% of WhatsApp and text messages get read, compared to just 20% for emails. If you want customers to see your messages, this is the way to go.
- More Ways to Connect – Since you can add both WhatsApp and SMS options, you double your chances of getting leads.
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Potential Downsides
- Only Works on Mobile (For Now) – Currently, this feature is available only when customers search for your business on mobile browsers. It doesn’t show on desktop or the Google Maps app yet, but that could change in the future.
- No Built-in Tracking – Google doesn’t provide stats on how many people are clicking your chat buttons, so the only way to measure success is by tracking your WhatsApp and SMS messages manually.
- Could Get Overwhelming – If you start getting too many messages, it might be tough to keep up. Having a system in place to manage responses will be key.
That said, the benefits far outweigh the downsides. If you’re serious about making it easier for customers to reach you, this is a no-brainer.
How to Set Up WhatsApp & SMS Messaging on Your Google Business Profile
Setting this up takes just a few minutes. Here’s how:
1. Log into Your Google Business Profile – Open your dashboard and click Edit Profile. (go to business.google.com)
2. Go to the Contact Tab – Find the Chat Option and click the pencil icon to edit.
3. Enable WhatsApp Messaging:
- Select WhatsApp from the dropdown.
- Add your WhatsApp Click to Chat link (not your phone number!).
- If you don’t have a WhatsApp link yet, create one using this format: https://wa.me/YOURPHONENUMBER
- Make sure your phone number is in international format (no zeros, brackets, or dashes).
- Paste the link into your Google Business Profile and save
4. Enable SMS Messaging
- Select Text Message from the dropdown.
- Choose your country and enter your phone number without the country code.
- Hit save.
Google will verify your settings, which might take a few minutes. Once approved, customers will be able to message you directly from your Google Business Profile.
Final Thoughts
Google’s new WhatsApp and SMS messaging feature is a game-changer for businesses that want to make communication effortless. It’s easy to set up, gives customers a quick way to reach you, and can boost your engagement significantly.
So go ahead – set this up today. It’s quick, simple, and totally worth it.