Google Maps has recently issued updated advice to entrepreneurs and business owners to ensure their customers are well-informed about any changes in their business amid the novel coronavirus outbreak.
Google Maps Makes an Announcement
According to a report by the Daily Express, the update is created to keep both loyal and potential customers in the loop of any changes a business might have due to the COVID-19 scare.
Google Maps issued an update to business owners regarding any changes made due to coronavirus outbreak.
Google has published its update advice on its support page, encouraging business owners to "provide accurate information" to its customers.
Among the possible changes are hours of operation, or whether the establishment is temporarily closing its doors--as with several businesses in the US, such as big dim sum parlors in New York as well as universities and colleges.
Any changes you make will be shown on your profile, both Google Search and Google Maps, but are subject to possible reviews for quality by the company.
The tech giant also advised a few changes that businesses can do.
Many large companies, including Google, have been permitting their workers to work remotely for now to avoid further spread of the disease.
Customers Should Be Made Aware
Businesses that have done this are likely to have shorter operating hours, and customers must be made aware of these changes so they can schedule their visits and avoid going out unnecessarily.
Additionally, Google Maps also wants business owners to provide further information about any changes, especially precautions they are taking if there are any--if they are experiencing delays, or they are offering any extra services for their customers.
Changes made, such as operating hours, should be updated on your business profile, says Google.
If they are affected in any way by the novel coronavirus outbreak, Google Maps encourages them to share the information they can.
They are also advised to update their contact details where customers can reach them.
Lastly, Google encouraged business owners to create and share posts to communicate with their customers regularly.
"Share more detailed and timely updates about what's going on with your business through Posts. For example, add information about what products and services you have available, and link to other resources," the company wrote.
Following Apple's Announcement
Google Maps' move comes after Apple has made its own coronavirus-related announcement to iPhone users, stating that they can now use disinfectant wipes to clean their smartphones, Mac laptops, computers, and iPads.
Apple has also allowed its employees to work remotely for now.
As of writing, there are over 100,000 cases around the world, with China and Italy on the lead, as well as more than 4,700 COVID-19 death-related cases confirmed in the first three months since it was discovered in Wuhan, China.
Businesses around the world are affected, driving low sales from lockdowns and people's fear of coming out.
As per the World Health Organization (WHO), the best way to avoid infecting the disease is to properly wash your hands for 20 seconds on a regular basis, disinfecting "high-touch" surfaces such as doorknobs and table surfaces, as well as social distancing.
Recently, WHO has officially announced that the novel coronavirus is a pandemic.
