How to turn on Google Business Profile message auto-reply
When someone taps Message on your Google listing, a welcome message can go out immediately — before you open the app. That keeps the lead warm while you’re under a sink or on a ladder.
This is free and takes about five minutes in the Google Maps app. Google’s menus change sometimes; look for Messages, Chat, or Welcome message if your screen looks different.
Step 1 — Open your profile in Google Maps
Sign in with the Google account that manages the business. Tap your profile picture → Your Business Profile → your listing.
Step 2 — Turn messaging on
Go to Settings or the ⋯ menu → Messaging / Chat → switch On.
Honest rule: if nobody on your team will watch messages, leave it Off. A dead Message button hurts more than no button.
Step 3 — Write a welcome message that sounds like you
Name a real callback window and your phone for emergencies. Example for trades:
“Thanks for messaging [Business Name]. We’re often on job sites — we read every message and call back the same business day. For emergencies, call [your phone] now.”
Step 4 — Reply when you can
Maps → your profile → Messages. Many customers expect a human follow-up within about an hour during business hours.
Step 5 — Test from a second phone
Search your business, tap Message, and confirm your welcome text appears.
Google messages vs website chat
This setting only covers people who message you from Google Maps. Visitors on your website need a different path — see our article on website chat vs Google messages or the Instant Chat add-on if you want answers in seconds on your site.
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