When customers search Google Maps for a service or product your business offers, is your company the one they see? Ranking higher on Google Maps can make a significant difference in attracting local leads and growing your small business. Optimizing your Google My Business (GMB) profile is a vital part of strengthening your local SEO and boosting visibility.
If you’re a small business owner, consider this your essential guide to getting your GMB profile to the top of the rankings. From picking the right keywords to enhancing your Google Maps listing, this blog post will explain actionable steps to dominate local search results.
Why Ranking Higher on Google Maps Matters
Before we get into the strategies, let’s address why Google Maps ranking is crucial. When potential customers look for local services, they often tap the top three listings on Google Maps (also called the “local pack”). If your business ranks here, you’re not just more visible; you’re perceived as more credible.
The benefits include:
- Increased website traffic
- Higher lead generation rates
- More calls and walk-ins
- Greater trust from potential customers
- An edge over local competitors
Simply put, ranking higher on Google Maps can drive tangible business growth.
Step 1. Choosing the Right Keywords for Your GMB Profile
How to Identify the Best Keywords:
- Use Google’s Keyword Planner to find high-traffic, location-specific keywords.
- Think Locally by adding city names, neighborhoods, or “near me” to your phrases.
- Analyze Competitor Listings in your area to see what keywords they frequently use.
- Leverage Customer Insights by checking what search terms led users to you (available in your GMB insights).
Once you have your keywords, seamlessly incorporate them into your business name (if applicable), description, services, and posts.
Example for a bakery:
Include keywords like, “Our bakery in Vancouver specializes in artisanal cupcakes, custom cakes, and other delightful treats.”
Step 2. Provide Supplemental Information to Boost Your Rank
A fully completed and detailed profile will always outrank incomplete ones. Google wants to provide users with accurate and trustworthy information.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Accurate Business Information:
- Business name, address, and phone number (NAP) should match exactly across all platforms.
- Choose the most accurate business category (avoid being too generic, e.g., “Chiropractor” instead of “Healthcare”).
- Regular Updates:
- Post weekly updates about offers, events, or tips related to your expertise. These posts show Google that your profile is active and relevant.
- Add Photos and Videos:
- Profiles with photos see 42% more requests for directions and 35% more website clicks than those without.
- Set Business Hours:
- Update operating hours, especially during holidays. Nothing frustrates customers more than outdated hours.
Step 3. How to Improve the Rank of Your Google Maps Listing
Ever notice businesses ranked ahead of you despite being smaller or newer? That’s because their Google Maps rankings are often optimized.
Tips to Boost Your Google Maps Rank:
- Embed Google Maps on Your Website
Adding a Google Maps embed with your business location improves visibility through added local SEO signals.
- Ensure Mobile-Friendliness
Since most local searches are on mobile phones, ensure your website is mobile-optimized.
- Encourage Check-ins
When customers check in to your location via Google Maps, it helps your relevance ranking. Incentivize them subtly without being pushy.
Bonus Tip: Join community directories or forums that link back to your GMB profile for that extra boost.
Step 4. How to Collect Google Reviews the Right Way
Reviews serve two purposes. First, they improve credibility with potential customers. Second, they show Google that your business is active and trustworthy.
Effective Review Strategies:
- Politely ask for reviews after offering exceptional service.
- Create a short, personalized URL for easier sharing (Guide to GMB Review Links).
- Respond to every review, positive or negative. Google rewards engagement.
Example Response:
“Thank you, Sarah, for your kind words! We’re glad you loved the Vancouver cupcakes. We hope to see you again soon.”
Step 5. Building Quality Backlinks for Local SEO
Backlinks from reputable websites signal to Google that your business is credible. Just like with your website, your GMB profile benefits from being referenced frequently.
Ways to Build Backlinks:
- Reach out to local bloggers, news sites, and influencers for reviews.
- Participate in local events, and ensure you’re featured on community pages.
- Sponsor local charities, schools, or sports clubs (they may feature your business on their site).
Step 6. What to Do if Your Google Business Profile is Suspended
Occasionally, profiles get suspended due to guideline violations or errors. Here’s how to resolve this quickly.
Steps to Take:
- Check the email you registered with for the suspension reason.
- Log into your GMB account and follow any reinstate links provided.
- Verify all of your business details for accuracy.
- Gather documentation (like bills or licenses) that prove your business operates as stated and submit them to Google.
How to Avoid Future Issues: Be upfront in representing your business. Don’t keyword stuff your business name, create duplicated profiles, or use misleading categories.
Elevate Your Google Maps Ranking Starting Today
Ranking higher on Google Maps might sound like a mountain to climb, but with consistent efforts, the rewards are immense. From simple optimizations to regularly engaging with your customers, every small change contributes to better visibility, consistent lead generation, and long-term growth.
Still unsure where to start? We’re here to help. Claim your free SEO audit today! Our experts will identify optimization opportunities and help you conquer the local SEO scene with ease.
Vadim Kotin
@kotin_digital
Claim My Free SEO Audit
