Big news—Google has just made it even easier for potential customers to reach you! With their latest update, businesses can now enable WhatsApp and SMS messaging directly from their Google Business Profile. That means more inquiries, higher engagement, and a faster way to connect with leads in real-time.
This update replaces Google’s old messaging feature (discontinued in July 2024) and has been tested in South America and the U.S. before rolling out worldwide. If you’re serious about making it effortless for customers to reach you, this is a must-enable feature!
Why This Feature is a Game-Changer
Messaging via WhatsApp and SMS beats traditional communication methods like emails or phone calls.
Works Across Multiple Business Profiles – If you manage more than one Google Business Profile, you can use the same WhatsApp link across all of them.
Super Convenient for Customers – People (especially younger audiences) prefer messaging over calling. It’s quick, easy, and doesn’t require waiting on hold.
Higher Open Rates – WhatsApp and SMS messages have a 98% open rate, compared to 20% for emails. More visibility = more engagement.
More Ways to Connect – Offering both WhatsApp and SMS doubles the ways potential customers can reach you.
Are There Any Downsides?
As great as this feature is, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Mobile-Only Feature – Right now, WhatsApp & SMS messaging only works on mobile browsers, not on desktop or Google Maps.
No Built-in Tracking – Google doesn’t provide insights on how many people click your chat buttons. You’ll need to track incoming WhatsApp & SMS messages manually.
High Inquiry Volume – If your business receives lots of messages, managing them could become time-consuming. Set up Quick Replies on WhatsApp to handle FAQs efficiently.
How to Enable WhatsApp & SMS Messaging on Your Google Business Profile
Setting this up takes just a few minutes. Here’s how:
Step 1: Log into Your Google Business Profile
Head to your Google Business Profile dashboard and sign in.
Step 2: Access the Chat Feature
Click Edit Profile
Navigate to the Contact tab
Find the Chat section and click the pencil icon to edit
Step 3: Add WhatsApp or SMS Messaging
To Enable WhatsApp:
Select WhatsApp Messaging
Paste your WhatsApp Click-to-Chat link
If you don’t have one, create it using this format: https://wa.me/[your phone number in international format]
Example: If your UK number is 07123456789, your WhatsApp link should be: https://wa.me/447123456789
Click Save
To Enable SMS Messaging:
Select Text Messaging from the dropdown
Choose your country
Enter your full phone number (without the country code)
Click Save
Step 4: Wait for Verification
Google will verify your settings—this may take a few minutes.
Step 5: Test Your Setup
Search for your business on a mobile web browser
If the WhatsApp or SMS buttons don’t show immediately, wait a bit—Google is still rolling this out.
Bonus Tip: Optimise Your Google Business Profile Even Further!
Since you’re already tweaking your Google Business Profile, why not take it up a notch?
Add Your Social Media Links – Help customers find & engage with you across multiple platforms.
Keep Your Profile Updated – Make sure your business hours, services, and photos are always accurate.
Encourage Customer Reviews – More reviews = higher credibility + better local rankings.
Final Thoughts: Should You Enable This Feature?
Absolutely! The benefits far outweigh the downsides. Google’s WhatsApp & SMS messaging makes it easier than ever to capture leads, engage with potential customers, and grow your business.
If you haven’t already, log into your Google Business Profile and activate it today!
Need help optimising your profile for more leads? Let’s chat!
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