Google Maps is a key part of the search experience for many consumers, especially when seeking local products and services. Securing a high position on the Maps results page offers significant visibility and opportunity for businesses to connect with new customers. However, achieving and maintaining a great Google Maps ranking is not without its challenges. Unlike regular SERP rankings, which are determined by an algorithm that takes into account the entire web, local Maps results are dependent on a number of factors that differ from traditional SEO practices.
Local Google Maps ranking focuses primarily on a business’s location and the physical proximity of that location to the searcher. It also considers the prominence of a business, as well as the quality and quantity of reviews it receives. Because of this, it’s important for businesses to focus on establishing their local authority and expertise online through their website.
A local website will not only help Google determine a business’s relevance for searchers, it will also serve as an additional way for consumers to learn more about a business before making a decision to visit or purchase from that business. As such, it’s important for a local business to create a mobile-responsive website that is optimized for the keywords that they want to rank for in their geographic area.
Another key factor that local Google Maps ranking considers is a business’s reputation. Google pays attention to the number of reviews a business obtains as well as how actively it responds to those reviews, regardless of whether they’re positive or negative. In fact, negative reviews can have a detrimental impact on a business’s ranking in local searches.
One of the most effective ways to boost your local Google Maps ranking is by running paid ads on the platform. This will instantly improve your visibility on the results page and get you noticed by your target audience. However, this will only improve your position in the local pack and not directly influence how your website ranks in organic searches.
In addition to running paid ads on Google Maps, it’s important to ensure that your business has a comprehensive and accurate GMB profile that is fully completed. This includes ensuring that all information is correct and up to date as well as utilizing relevant keyword phrases throughout your listing and on your website.
Finally, it’s critical to verify your business listing on Google Maps and monitor your website rankings for your geographic area with a tool like AccuRanker. This will allow you to monitor your ranking progress and receive notifications as soon as it changes, allowing you to make adjustments accordingly. With these simple steps, you can start improving your Google Maps ranking and drive more traffic to your website as a result.