On March 23rd we let our readers know that Google had disabled new reviews due to COVID-19, but today we are happy to report Google reactivating local reviews. It goes without saying that COVID-19 has and continues to have an enormous impact on the world, and in these uncertain times Pagecafe continues our commitment to maintaining a strong web and SEO presence to our customers. As such, we want to make sure to announce and explain Google’s reactivation of local reviews.
Google Reactivating New Reviews and Review Replies
During the last 7 weeks, your customers could still leave new reviews on your Google My Business (GMB) page, but they were not visible to the public. Now, all reviews from the time of suspension on will show visible on your company’s review page.
Google my business explained that, “Review replies are now available. New user reviews, new user photos, new short names, and Q&A will gradually return by country and business category.”
However, there are still some limitations on when reviews will show up.
Limitations on Google Reactivating Local Reviews
As mentioned above, there are a few limitations and delays in the reactivation of local reviews, in particular in regard to Google support. Support limitations refer to business information edits and listings.
Because health-related services are top priority in Google right now, other businesses can expect some delays in their business edits and listings. Yet this is still an improvement on the Google disabling that has been in effect since March 20th.
So, even if you’re a non-health-related business, continue to submit your updates, including listing updates, claims, and verifications. You may have a bit of a delay, but your updates will be made.
Build Your Business SEO, Now More Than Ever
Now is the perfect time to build your local business’s SEO ranking. With the past stay-at-home and current safer-at-home orders, people are relying almost exclusively on the internet for all their needs.
Though COVID-19 has brought about an enormous amount of pain and suffering on everyone in one way or another, it has also brought us together as a community. Now more than ever people are looking to support local businesses.
Stay safe, stay healthy, and together we can stay strong!
More to Read on Local Colorado Business SEO
How Can My Local Business Get Leads Through SEO?
How High-Ranking Local Businesses Get More Google 5-Star Reviews
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I have always believed that words hold power, and I have found my calling in helping local businesses attract and convert new customers using digital marketing. I love all things content-driven and I'm most in my element when I'm telling my client's stories through their copywriting, blogging, website design, imagery and social media. More articles by Liz M.