Google Started Filling in the Blanks on Your GBP…

Google has quietly started doing something interesting (and slightly terrifying): automatically adding WhatsApp contact links to some business profiles when it thinks that information belongs there. On one hand, this is great because Google clearly wants businesses to make it easier for customers to contact them instantly.

On the other hand… do you really want Google making decisions about how people contact your business without you approving it first? This is yet another reminder that your Google Business Profile is not something you set up once in 2022 and forget about forever. The more gaps you leave in your profile, the more likely Google is to start “helping” by filling in the blanks for you… and let’s just say Google doesn’t always ask permission first.

So what should you do right now? First, log into your Google Business Profile Manager and check every single contact option you have listed, especially your phone number, messaging options, WhatsApp number (if you use one), website URL, appointment booking link, and contact page link. Next, make sure any social media links connected to your business are active and actually point where they’re supposed to go because broken links are basically digital “closed for business” signs. If customers can text you, make sure Google knows that by adding a number capable of receiving messages instead of just a landline from 2007. And while you’re at it, double-check that every link reflects how you want customers interacting with your business… because if you don’t make that decision, Google might make it for you.

The bigger lesson here is simple: the businesses winning on Google are usually the ones feeding Google the most complete and accurate information. Every missing link, outdated URL, or incorrect contact method creates friction for customers and gives Google less confidence in understanding your business. If Google is going through the hassle of finding WhatsApp numbers connected to businesses, you can be sure they appreciate the businesses that provide it for them.

Want all of this handled automatically? MWW can fully optimize your Google Business Profile, automate ongoing updates, and set up all your important links during onboarding. Start your trial today for just $1 and get back to running your business instead of babysitting your marketing. If you're already a MWW customer, you can fix all this on the optimizations tab.