Definition
Google Q&A (Questions and Answers) is a feature integrated into Google Business Profile listings that allows any Google user to ask a question about a business, and any user (including the owner) to answer. Questions and answers appear directly on the Google Maps listing and in the local Knowledge Panel. This feature is strategic for local SEO as it influences potential customers' decisions and can contain relevant keywords. Best practices include: regularly monitoring new questions, responding promptly as the owner (official answers), proactively pre-filling frequently asked questions (proactive FAQ), and reporting inappropriate questions or false answers. Q&As can also be upvoted by users, with the most helpful answers being highlighted. Google can also generate automatic answers based on reviews and listing content.
Key Points
- Collaborative feature where any user can ask or answer a question
- Owner's answers are highlighted with an official badge
- Proactive strategy: pre-fill Q&A with frequently asked questions
Practical Examples
Proactive FAQ
A restaurant owner anticipates frequently asked questions by publishing 10 Q&As on their listing: hours, parking, vegetarian menu, reservations, etc. This reduces phone calls and improves the user experience directly in Google Maps.
Monitoring and quick response
A hotel sets up alerts to be notified of new questions on their listing. They respond within 24 hours to each question, demonstrating responsiveness and controlling the narrative around their establishment.
Frequently Asked Questions
The owner cannot directly delete a question, but they can report it to Google if it is inappropriate. The best strategy is to respond quickly and professionally, even to negative questions.
Q&As are not a direct ranking factor, but they contribute to listing engagement, influence conversion rates, and can contain relevant keywords that improve listing relevance.
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Last updated: 2026-02-07