In this article, we'll delve into the significance of updating your business hours during the holiday season and how it can make a substantial impact on your sales.

The Digital Shopping Shift

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With the advent of online shopping and the convenience of technology, consumers have changed how they shop, particularly during the holiday season. Many shoppers now turn to search engines and mapping services like Google to find businesses that meet their needs.

People search for businesses with extended or special holiday hours. If your business provides this information, you can avoid being overlooked in favour of competitors who do. So, how can you leverage this trend to your advantage?

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The Importance of Accurate Information

When consumers search for businesses on Google Search or Maps (or Apple Maps), they expect to find accurate information, including opening and closing hours. Outdated or incomplete information can lead to confusion and frustration for potential customers.

By taking a few minutes to update your holiday hours, you can demonstrate your commitment to customer service. Customers will appreciate the convenience and clarity, and you'll be more likely to capture sales from those who prioritize businesses with extended hours.

Boosting Visibility

Besides directly impacting customer experience, updating your holiday hours can also significantly boost your online visibility. When you provide accurate information, your business is more likely to appear in search results for users looking for services or products you offer during the holiday season. This can help you attract new customers who might have otherwise missed you.

How to Update Your Hours

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Updating your holiday hours is a straightforward process:

1. Log in to your Mobal account - or create one for free account if you don't have one yet. 
2. Navigate to the "Business Hours" section on the Profile Page.
3. Click "Edit Details" next to your regular hours.
4. Add your special holiday hours and save the changes.
   

It's a small effort that can lead to substantial benefits. By taking this step, you not only serve your existing customer base but also make your business more appealing to potential new customers actively searching during the holidays.

What's the potential loss in sales due to the wrong opening hours online? 

The potential loss of sales due to incorrect or outdated opening hours online can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type of business, its location, and the extent of the misinformation. Here are some ways in which incorrect opening hours can impact a company's sales:

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Missed Business Opportunities

‍If a potential customer finds incorrect opening hours online and assumes the business is closed when it's actually open, the business loses out on that immediate sale.

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Customer Frustration

‍naccurate information can lead to customer frustration. If a customer arrives at a business expecting it to be open and finds it closed, they may become dissatisfied and less likely to return.

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Negative Reviews

‍Unhappy customers may leave negative reviews or comments online, deterring potential customers from choosing your business.

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Damage to Reputation

‍Consistent inaccuracies in opening hours can damage a business's reputation as unreliable, making customers less likely to trust the information provided online.Competitive Disadvantage: Businesses that provide accurate and up-to-date information may attract more customers and gain a competitive advantage.

Conclusion

Today, consumers rely heavily on the internet to make informed decisions, and ensuring that your business hours are updated is a simple yet powerful strategy. As the holiday season approaches, take advantage of the opportunity to attract more customers and increase sales. A small effort in updating your business hours can result in significant rewards, making your holiday season brighter for you and your customers. So, get ahead of the game and make those crucial updates today!

Remember, your customers are searching for you. Make sure they find you, not your competitors, this holiday season.

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