Google Maps Ranking is the process of optimizing your business to appear higher on the search engine’s map results and boost your online visibility. It’s an essential marketing strategy that should be a top priority for local businesses looking to attract more customers.
Every day, people use Google Maps to find local products and services. In fact, the mapping app was downloaded 25.5 million times by US smartphone users in 2021. With so many people using Google Maps to find businesses, a high Google Maps ranking is vital for increasing your brand awareness and generating quality leads.
Achieving a top Google Maps ranking requires comprehensive optimizations across a variety of channels. This article will take a look at 10 essential steps to help your business rank higher on Google Maps.
One of the first things you need to do is ensure your Google Maps profile is filled out completely and accurately. This includes making sure all NAP (name, address, phone number) information is correct and up to date. Also, make sure your business category is the most accurate representation of what you do. Choosing the wrong category can have a significant impact on your rankings.
Another way to improve your Google Maps ranking is to embed a map on your website. This will show Google that you are active and well-established in your local area. It can also be helpful if you include a link to your Google Maps business profile.
You should also monitor the number of reviews your business receives. While not an absolute ranking factor, a large number of positive reviews can have a big impact on your Maps rankings. It’s important to respond to any negative reviews as well, which will help show both Google and potential customers that you are committed to providing a great customer experience.
Your citations are another important ranking factor for Google Maps. The more reputable websites that mention your business, the better. However, it’s important that the citations you receive are consistent and have minimal variations (Rd vs Street, Apartment vs Suite, etc). Too much volatility can decrease your Google Maps ranking.
Finally, you should monitor your Google Maps rankings regularly. This can be done manually (using Incognito Mode and not logged into your Google account) or using a local rank monitoring tool such as Semrush.
Getting a top Google Maps ranking can be challenging, but with the right tools and strategies, it’s possible to rank your business higher on Google. By following the tips in this article, you can start improving your Google Maps ranking and boosting your business’s online visibility. Ready to get started? Sign up for a free trial of Semrush to see how our all-in-one SEO suite can grow your business.