Getting your company listed among the top 3 results in Google’s local search pack isn’t just a matter of brand recognition, but also increases website traffic and conversions. In fact, being displayed in the Maps pack increases sign-ups, site visits and phone calls significantly more than organically ranking on page 1.
Google ranks Maps listings based on three main factors: relevance, distance and prominence. Relevance refers to the ability of a result to closely match a search query, while distance relates to how close a business is to the user’s current location. Prominence, on the other hand, is a more difficult factor to pin down, with Google stating that it’s based on how well-known a business is both offline and online.
To increase your chances of getting listed in the Maps pack, make sure you have a fully optimized GMB profile. This includes having a catchy company description that’s concise, readable and contains selected keywords related to your business activity, as well as properly categorizing your business. Also, be sure to keep your GMB data up-to-date – including opening hours, photos and address information.
In addition to optimizing your GMB listing, you should proactively encourage reviews from customers. This isn’t a bad thing, as more and better reviews will boost your Maps ranking. However, it’s important to do this in a way that doesn’t feel like you are pressuring your customers into leaving a review.
Another way to promote your Maps ranking is by embedding a Google map into your company’s website. This is an easy way to show Google that your company is located at the address you list on GMB. Plus, it makes your website look more professional and trustworthy.
Finally, you should use a rank monitoring tool to track your progress and check how your SEO campaigns are performing. There are a number of different options out there, but many allow you to monitor your Google Maps ranking in addition to regular search engine results pages (SERPs) based on the keywords that you’re targeting. You can perform manual Google searches yourself (preferably in Incognito Mode and while not logged into your personal account), or you can choose from a wide variety of rank monitoring tools, some of which offer the ability to filter out Maps rankings.