Google Business Profile (GBP) messaging allows customers to directly contact your business via a chat function within Google Search and Maps. As of early 2026, this is a crucial component of local search optimisation, providing instant customer engagement and potentially boosting your local ranking.
- Direct Messaging: Customers initiate conversations directly from your GBP listing.
- Automated Greetings & Away Messages: Current systems include the ability to set up automated responses for immediate acknowledgement and manage expectations during off-hours.
- Message Labels & Organisation: You can now features labels to categorise messages (e.g., ‘Quote Request’, ‘Order Update’) for efficient management.
- SMS Integration: GBP messaging seamlessly integrates with SMS, allowing you to respond to customers via text message directly from the platform.
- Reporting & Analytics: Track message volume, response times, and customer satisfaction metrics within the GBP dashboard.
In 2026, Australian businesses must be mindful of privacy regulations when handling customer data through GBP messaging. Ensuring compliance with the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs) is vital, particularly regarding data storage and consent for marketing communications. Quick response times are also increasingly important, as Google prioritises businesses demonstrating active engagement with potential customers.
Managing GBP messaging effectively requires consistent monitoring and a dedicated strategy – something many business owners find time-consuming. Instead of struggling with these technical complexities and compliance requirements, our team at ROI.com.au can take care of all this for you. Contact us today to discuss how we can optimise your Google Business Profile and drive more leads.
