Weekly Digital Breakdown – 3.19.20
Weekly Digital Breakdown
Mar 19
Google Helps Local Businesses
As life is changing at a rapid speed, Google is continuing to work diligently to help businesses, particularly small ones, who rely on the company to provide accurate store details to online searchers. Google Search and Maps will make it easy for businesses to update their hours of operation or if they are temporarily closed though Google My Business.
As several states are closing restaurants, local data accuracy is going to continue to be critical for users. The updated business profiles will also show if delivery and takeout options are still available as well as any other necessary modifications to normal business.
With roughly 90% of Google My Business accounts having only one location and many not having their own dedicated site, accuracy on the Google listing is crucial in disseminating information.
Facebook Supports Small Businesses with Grant Program
This week in a Facebook post, chief operating officer Sheryl Sandberg announced a small business grants program that will offer $100M in cash grants and ad credits to aid businesses in light of COVID-19. Up to 30,000 small businesses in the 30 countries Facebook operates in will be eligible to receive the funds.
Sandberg said the company has also made their Business Hub, typically reserved for Facebook employees and health experts, available to all as an additional resource. Virtual trainings to support businesses navigating this new environment are also in the works.
The announcement comes as many are finding themselves uncertain on next steps for their businesses and eager for the additional support to help both themselves and their employees.
Communities Giving Back
Local community is more important than ever as people are finding ways to come together in troubled times. In New York City, what started as helping an elderly synagogue member has quickly turned into a growing act of kindness that’s spreading throughout the city.
Liam Elkin, a 20-year old college student, offered to help an 83 year old woman in his neighborhood who needed groceries since she is at higher risk for COVID-19. In doing so, he not only provided the necessities but also human contact she was desperately needing.
From there, Elkin coordinated more volunteers to form Invisible Hands, a food delivery service for those most at risk of contracting COVID-19. Shoppers must not have traveled out of the country for 14 days, have no symptoms of the disease and practice social distancing and additional safety measures while shopping and delivering. It’s also serving as an example for other places with volunteers wishing to replicate the service.
The idea is catching on in a big way and helping big cities feel a little smaller and more connected. It’s a way to bring a little comfort and compassion in a crazy time.
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