Understanding and Managing Google Opening Hours: A Guide to Addressing Changes

Maintaining accurate business information online is crucial for attracting customers. Google Business is a powerful tool that allows businesses to showcase their details, including opening hours.

However, some businesses may be perplexed when Google seemingly changes their opening hours without warning. This article will explore the reasons behind these changes and provide actionable tips for managing and maintaining accurate opening hours on Google.

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The three main reasons why your opening hours on Google might change, without your permission

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1. User-Generated Edits

Google Business relies on user-generated content. Sometimes, well-intentioned users may submit edits to opening hours. These edits can be automatically applied if they gain enough credibility or if the business owner is not actively managing their Google Business Profile (GBP) listing.

Tip: Regularly check your Google Business profiles on Mobal for any pending edits and verify them to ensure accuracy.

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2. Google Algorithm Updates

Google's algorithms continuously evolve to enhance user experience. Algorithm changes may affect how Google displays business information, including opening hours. These updates aim to provide users with the most relevant and trustworthy information.

Tip: Stay informed about algorithm changes by following Google's official updates and adjust your Google Business profile accordingly.

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3. Seasonal Variations

Certain businesses may have seasonal changes in opening hours. Google may adjust the displayed hours based on historical data or user patterns during specific seasons. For instance, extended summer hours or holiday closures may impact the displayed information.

Tip: Update your Google Business Profile well in advance to reflect any seasonal variations in opening hours.

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4. Data Aggregators and Third-Party Sources

Google often pulls information from various data aggregators and third-party sources. If these sources have outdated or incorrect information, it can lead to unexpected changes in your business hours on Google.

Tip: Ensure that your business information is consistent across all platforms and directories. Regularly check and update listings on third-party sites to maintain accuracy.

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5. Business Verification Status

If your business verification status changes, such as becoming unverified due to inactivity or other issues, it may result in changes to how your business information, including opening hours, is displayed.

Tip: Regularly verify your Google Business Profile to maintain control over your business information. Respond promptly to any verification issues.

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6. User Reports and Feedback

Customers can report discrepancies or provide feedback directly to Google. If multiple users report incorrect hours, Google may update your business hours based on this feedback.

Tip: Monitor customer feedback and reviews for any mentions of incorrect business hours. Respond promptly to correct any misinformation.

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7. Google Business Profile Inactivity

If you do not actively manage your Google Business account, Google may rely more heavily on external data sources and user-generated content, which can lead to changes in your listed hours.

Tip: Regularly update your Google Business profile to ensure your information is correct.

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Managing Your Opening Hours on Google

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Claim and Verify Your Google Business Profile

Ensure you have claimed and verified your business on Google. This not only gives you control over your profile but also allows you to receive notifications about any suggested edits.

Tip: Regularly log in to Mobal to check for any update notifications.

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Be Proactive in Updating Information

Regularly update your opening hours on Mobal, especially during holidays, special events, or any changes due to unforeseen circumstances. Keeping this information current reduces the likelihood of user-generated edits.

Tip: Set a reminder to review and update your opening hours on Google Business (and all your other online profiles on Apple Maps, Bing, and Facebook) at least once a month.

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Monitor Customer Reviews

Customer reviews can sometimes highlight discrepancies in opening hours. Engage with your customers, thank them for their feedback, and address any concerns promptly. This improves customer relations and signals to Google that you actively manage your listing.

Tip: Encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews that mention accurate opening hours.

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Conclusion

Understanding why Google changed your opening hours is the first step towards proactive management. By claiming and verifying your listing, staying informed about algorithm updates, and regularly updating your information, you can ensure that potential customers receive accurate and up-to-date information about your business.

A proactive approach to managing your Google Business profile enhances your online presence and contributes to a positive customer experience.

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FAQ: Understanding and Managing Google Opening Hours

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Q: Why do my opening hours on Google Business change without my permission?

A: There are several reasons why your opening hours on Google might change unexpectedly:

1. User-Generated Edits: Well-intentioned users may submit edits to your opening hours, which can be automatically applied if they gain enough credibility.
2. Google Algorithm Updates: Google's algorithms continuously evolve to improve user experience, leading to changes in how business information, including opening hours, is displayed.
3. Seasonal Variations: Google may adjust displayed hours based on historical data or user patterns during specific seasons, such as extended summer hours or holiday closures.

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Q: How can I prevent unauthorized changes to my opening hours on Google Business?

A: To prevent unauthorized changes, regularly check your Google Business profiles for any pending edits and verify them to ensure accuracy. Additionally, stay informed about algorithm changes by following Google's official updates and adjust your profile accordingly. Update your Google Business Profile well in advance to reflect any seasonal variations in opening hours.

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Q: What steps can I take to manage my opening hours effectively on Google?

A: Here are some actionable tips for managing your opening hours on Google Business:

1. Claim and Verify Your Google Business Profile: Take control of your profile to receive notifications about suggested edits.
2. Be Proactive in Updating Information: Regularly update your opening hours, especially during holidays or special events, to reduce the likelihood of user-generated edits.
3. Monitor Customer Reviews: Engage with customers, address concerns promptly, and encourage positive reviews mentioning accurate opening hours.

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Q: How often should I update my opening hours on Google Business?

A: Set a reminder to review and update your opening hours on Google Business (and other online profiles) at least once a month. This ensures that potential customers receive accurate and up-to-date information about your business.

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Q: What are the benefits of proactive management of my Google Business profile?

A: Proactively managing your Google Business profile enhances your online presence, improves customer relations, and contributes to a positive customer experience. It ensures that potential customers receive accurate information, ultimately driving more foot traffic to your business.

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