Business Owners can respond to reviews in Google Maps Listings

There are two sides to every story, and now Business Owners can share their side. In the  Google LatLong Blog, Google announced the ability for Business Owners to respond to reviews in their Google Maps listing, such as this one for Adventure Kayak Outfitters offering Sarasota Kayak Tours.

Google Local Search listings are showing up for more search queries everyday, and users are making buying decisions from those local reviews. Now Business Owners can respond publicly, resolving negative reviews, and thanking customers for positive.

Currently Business Owners can only respond to reviews left at the Google Maps listing, any review pulled in from third-party sites do not offer the option to respond.

To respond to any reviews with your business:

1. You must first claim your Google Local Listing.
2. Once you have claimed your local listing login to your Google Places account
3. Visit your local listing
4. In the reviews section click “Respond publicly as the owner”
5. Fill out your response and click publish.

About the Author:  James Moore is the Internet Marketing Director for Webtivity Design Solutions in Bradenton, FL.