As you know, mobile messaging is quickly becoming a preferred communication method auto shoppers. In fact, a recent Google study shows that car buyers no longer prefer to call the dealership, send email, or fill out a form. Instead, today’s shoppers are increasingly turning to chat and text to connect with your dealership. That may well be why Google launched messaging for business listings. This feature allows you to chat directly with customers who find your business listing on Google Search.

Why Google My Business Messaging Matters

You might be asking yourself, “What does adding chat to Google My Business do for my car dealership?”

If you’re familiar with Google’s micro-moments, then you know the importance of addressing the needs of consumers, committing to being there, and being useful every time you can to help advance the buying journey. By turning on messaging for your local business listing, you can:

• Reach and engage more mobile shoppers to effectively fill your showroom
• Increase sales and service appointments for your dealership
• Leverage your local SEO efforts to reach car buyers when it matters most

How to Turn on Google My Business Chat

Exciting news! You’re now able to instantly connect with anyone on Google Search Results looking for you or a dealership in the area with ActivEngage live chat. Thanks to our Google Integration, your team (or ours) can engage mobile users right from your free Google listings.

If you’re an ActivEngage customer, turning on the live chat feature for Google My Business is quick and easy to do:

STEP 1: Get your unique SMS phone number from AE Support.

STEP 2: Go to your Google My Business account, and click Edit number on the right side of the Chat card.

STEP 3: Enter your phone number and notify AE Support to receive a confirmation code.

STEP 4: Input confirmation code received from AE Support.

That’s it — you’re ready to rock. If you’re an ActivEngage software customer, you will be able to leverage all the awesome features in our web-based console with mobile shoppers clicking to chat from your Google business listing. If you’re using our managed chat service, our team will assist your customers 24/7, so get ready for some leads!

Not an ActivEngage customer?

You’re missing out! Start engaging mobile shoppers during crucial moments in the buying journey with ActivEngage. Call 407-960-3503 today for a quick demo of our services!