Merdeka! 🇲🇾 The long weekend is here! Before you close your laptop, switch off the lights and enjoy your well-deserved break, there’s one small thing you might have forgotten. Have you updated your business hours on Google Maps? Most businesses remember to post a holiday notice on social media or inform their staff. But many overlook their Google Business Profile. Imagine a customer searching for your business on Google. They see that you’re listed as Open, drive all the way to your shop or office…
Only to find the doors closed. 😅
Why Updating Holiday Hours Matters
Your Google Business Profile is often the first place customers check before visiting or contacting your business. If your Business Hours on Google Maps are incorrect, it can lead to:
- Customers making unnecessary trips
- Missed calls and enquiries
- Frustrated customers
- Negative reviews
- Lost business opportunities
And the worst part? You might not even know it is happening.
Don’t Change Your Regular Hours
If your business is only closing or operating differently during a public holiday, don’t change your regular operating hours.
Instead, update your Special Hours on your Google Business Profile.
This allows you to set different hours for specific dates, such as:
- Merdeka Day
- Hari Raya
- Chinese New Year
- Deepavali
- Other public holidays
Once the holiday is over, your normal operating hours will remain unchanged.
Before You Go, Do a Quick Check
Before heading off for your long weekend, check:
✓ Google Maps operating hours
✓ Special holiday hours
✓ Business phone number
✓ Website holiday announcement
✓ Social media updates
It only takes a few minutes, but it can save your customers from a wasted trip. So, before you shout “Merdekaaaa!” and disappear for the long weekend, make sure your customers know when you’re actually open. A small update can make a big difference to your customer experience. Click here to edit your business hours. Need help managing your Google Business Profile and improving your online visibility? Contact us today for help.
