Can Third-Party Booking Links Hijack Your Google Business Profile?
Is Your GBP Handing Customers To Competitors?
Hijacking booking links is not a new problem for service providers, but we have recently seen it happen to some clients.
The best way to describe the problem hijacking presents would be to picture walking into a shop looking for a sandwich. Instead of the shop just selling you the sandwich directly, they hand your request over to someone else who recommends a sandwich from a different store and takes a percentage of the sale for their trouble. This third party won’t even let you talk to the staff of the store you came into!
This frustrating experience is exactly what can happen when you allow third-party booking links—like Thumbtack or others—to take over your Google Business Profile.
Below, we’ll break down why people use these booking links, explain how they can hijack your customer relationships, and show you how to protect your business from losing both money and standing online.
What Are Third-Party Booking Links In Google Business Profiles?
Third-party booking links are tools that allow platforms like Thumbtack, Yelp, or other scheduling services to integrate directly into your Google Business Profile. When customers search for your business, they might see a “Book” button that takes them to these external platforms instead of your website or direct contact information.
While this might seem like a convenient feature, it can have serious consequences for your business if you’re not careful.
If you’re a business owner, your Google Business Profile is one of your most valuable assets. It’s often the first place potential customers find you, and it’s where they decide whether to contact you or move on to a competitor.
Allowing third-party booking links can impact your revenue, customer relationships, and online reputation. Here’s what you need to know.
What Are The Benefits Of Allowing Third-Party Booking Links?
- Convenience for customers. Third-party booking links make it easy for customers to schedule appointments or services directly from your Google Business Profile.
- Increased visibility. Platforms like Thumbtack and Yelp have large user bases you may tap into.
- Streamlined operations. These platforms often handle scheduling, payments, and reminders.
- Enhanced credibility. Association with well-known platforms can signal trust.
- Access to analytics. Many third-party platforms provide booking and behavior insights.
What Are The Risks Of Allowing Third-Party Booking Links?
- Fees and commissions. Per-lead or per-booking costs add up quickly.
- Loss of customer ownership. You lose direct contact and upsell/retention opportunities.
- Dependence on third parties. You’re subject to their policies and price changes.
- Risk of losing customers to competitors. Comparison views can steer prospects elsewhere.
- Brand dilution. Customers may remember the platform, not your business.
How Do Third-Party Booking Links Hijack Customer Relationships?
Google’s integration of third-party booking links can hijack your relationships in three ways.
Priority placement: Third-party links may appear more prominently than your site or phone number, diverting customers from your preferred method like BookSmart scheduling.
Experience control: A third party controls messaging, data capture, and upsells—not you.
Review fallout: A poor platform experience can result in negative reviews that reflect on your brand.
How Can I Protect My Business From Hijacked Booking Links?
- Use your own booking system. Direct customers to a scheduler you control to own the relationship and avoid fees.
- Optimize your Google Business Profile. Ensure clear links to your website and phone—and keep info accurate.
- Set a preferred link in GBP. Choose your website or booking page as the preferred option to steer users where you want them.
- Monitor third-party platforms. Review performance, fees, and feedback; adjust or remove as needed.
- Educate customers. Communicate the benefits of booking direct (e.g., best pricing, faster support).
- Leverage Google’s native booking features (when appropriate). Use tools that keep users within your brand experience.
It’s also important to select a “Preferred Link” inside your Google Business Profile. This choice can be found within your GBP preferences.
Should You Allow Third-Party Booking Links On Your Google Business Profile?
The answer depends on your goals and resources. If convenience and reach matter most, third-party links can help. If owning the relationship and margins is the priority, steer traffic to your site and tools.
Why Should I Care About Third-Party Booking Links?
Third-party booking links are a double-edged sword. Weigh convenience against fees, control, and brand impact—then implement safeguards.
Call or contact us online today to learn how we can help you take control of your Google Business Profile and grow your business!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are third-party booking links?
Third-party booking links allow external scheduling platforms to handle appointments instead of your direct website or business phone line.
How do third-party booking links affect my business?
They can result in lost revenue, loss of direct customer relationships, and increased dependency on third-party platforms.
How can I remove third-party booking links from my GBP?
You can log into your Google Business Profile, go to settings, and remove third-party integrations. Alternatively, you can contact Google support for assistance.
Last updated: August 2025
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