Why Updating Your Google & Bing Business Page Hours of Operation is Crucial for Small Businesses

Maintaining accurate and up-to-date information on your business’s online profiles is paramount in today’s digital age. For small businesses, this is especially critical when it comes to updating your Google Business Profile and Bing Business Page. Keeping these profiles current enhances customer relations and ensures that potential customers can find you and engage with your business seamlessly.

The Importance of Accurate Business Hours

One of the most critical pieces of information on your online business profiles is your hours of operation. Whether it’s a typical workday or a special holiday period, displaying accurate hours can make a significant difference. Imagine a customer planning to visit your store only to find out it’s closed when they arrive. This not only leads to frustration but can also tarnish your business’s reputation.

Regularly updating your Google Business Profile and Bing Business Page can prevent such negative experiences. This is particularly important during holidays when businesses often operate on irregular schedules. Informing customers about any changes in hours—such as early closures on Christmas Eve or being closed on the day after Thanksgiving—helps set proper expectations and fosters trust.

Enhancing Customer Relations

Updating your business hours isn’t just about preventing inconvenience; it’s a proactive step in building strong customer relationships. When customers see that a business is meticulous about providing accurate information, it reflects high professionalism and reliability. It shows that you value their time and convenience, which can enhance customer loyalty and satisfaction.

Moreover, regularly logging into these platforms to update your hours offers an excellent opportunity to check other critical information. Ensure your address, phone number, website link, and other contact details are current. Accurate information across all touchpoints reduces the risk of misinformation and ensures customers can reach you without any hiccups.

Boosting Online Visibility

Search engines like Google and Bing prioritize accurate and up-to-date information in their search results. By maintaining your business profiles, you can improve your local SEO efforts, making it easier for potential customers to find you. When search engines recognize that your business consistently updates its profile, it can positively impact your ranking, giving you a competitive edge.

Additional Ways to Notify Customers About Holiday Hours

In addition to updating your Google Business Profile and Bing Business Page, consider implementing these strategies to keep your customers informed:

  • Social Media Announcements: Use your social media platforms to announce any changes in your hours. A simple post on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram can reach a broad audience quickly.

  • Email Newsletters: Send an email to your subscribers detailing your holiday hours. This is particularly effective for businesses with loyal customer bases who check their emails regularly. [If your business is not currently using email to reach your customers, check out Constant Contact. We are a certified business partner and have witnessed first-hand how effective it is for our clients!]

  • Website Updates: Ensure your website’s contact page and homepage reflect any changes in your operating hours. Adding a banner or a pop-up notification about holiday hours can also catch visitors’ attention.

  • In-Store Signage: For brick-and-mortar stores, place clear signage at your entrance detailing your holiday hours. This ensures that even walk-in customers are well-informed.

  • Google Posts: Use Google Posts to highlight any special hours or closures. These posts appear directly on your Google Business Profile, making them highly visible to anyone searching for your business.

Updating your Google Business Profile and Bing Business Page with accurate hours is not just a good practice—it’s essential for maintaining excellent customer relations and boosting your business’s visibility. By taking these steps, you demonstrate a commitment to transparency and customer service, which can significantly enhance your reputation and success.

Need Help?

At Omaha Advertising, we help our clients manage their online profiles, create engaging social media content, and update their websites. We ensure the business information is accurate and accessible, helping them connect with their customers and prospects. We handle the details so you can focus on running your business!

Ready to elevate your business’s online presence? Partner with Omaha Advertising to reach more customers and grow your brand. Contact us today at 402-943-3500 to learn how we can help you succeed. Please note that we will be closed on July 4th & July 5th for Independence Day, but we look forward to assisting you before or after the holiday. Let us take your digital marketing efforts to the next level!

U.S. HOLIDAYS COMMONLY AFFECTING BUSINESS HOURS

Several holidays in the United States typically affect small business hours, often leading to closures or reduced hours. These holidays include:

  1. New Year’s Day (January 1): Many businesses close to celebrate the start of the new year.
  2. Martin Luther King Jr. Day (third Monday in January): Some businesses may close or operate on reduced hours.
  3. Presidents’ Day (third Monday in February): Some businesses may close or have reduced hours.
  4. Memorial Day (last Monday in May): Many businesses close to honor military personnel who have died in service.
  5. Independence Day (July 4): Most businesses close for the day to celebrate the nation’s independence.
  6. Labor Day (first Monday in September): Many businesses close to honor workers.
  7. Veterans Day (November 11): Some businesses may close or have reduced hours to honor military veterans.
  8. Thanksgiving Day (fourth Thursday in November): Most businesses close for the day to allow employees to spend time with family.
  9. Christmas Eve (December 24): Businesses often close early to allow for family gatherings.
  10. Christmas Day (December 25): Most businesses close for the day to celebrate the holiday.

Additionally, businesses may also close or operate on reduced hours on New Year’s Eve (December 31), the Friday after Thanksgiving, and Easter Sunday, depending on their industry and customer base.