Google Maps SEO is a crucial component to any local business’ digital marketing strategy. It allows businesses to attract local traffic, expand their reach, and increase their revenue. Local searchers are constantly using Google to find products, services and businesses that can meet their needs. They also make quick buying decisions based on online reputations, credibility scores, and reviews.
Google uses finely-tuned algorithms to determine the most relevant results for a given query. It’s important to understand these algorithms in order to optimize your Google Maps listing and rank well in your local market.
When people search for a product, service or business online, they often use Google maps to find locations and directions. It’s important to rank high on google maps because it will lead to more views, clicks and potential clients. In addition, more clients will be able to see your brand and will feel more comfortable interacting with you.
Optimizing your Google Maps ranking is easy with the right tools and knowledge. Follow the tips below to rank higher and start seeing more traffic and business growth.
Ensure Your Listing is Complete and Accurate
It’s very important to double check that all information about your business is correct and up to date on your GMB profile. You should include all services you offer, address, phone number, and website. Additionally, it’s important to use structured data markup to help Google better understand your listing and display it in the right place.
You should also add photos to your Google Maps listing, as these will have a significant impact on your Google Maps SEO ranking. Consumers love images and will be more inclined to interact with your listing when it has plenty of them.
Lastly, you should have a clear URL for your website in your Google Maps listing. Nearly 60% of all searches on Google are done on mobile devices, so a website that requires pinching and zooming or is slow to load will not do well in local SEO.
Build Trust with Reviews
Reviews continue to be one of the most influential ranking factors for Google Maps. They are the best way to prove to consumers that your business is trustworthy and has a great reputation. This is why it’s important to proactively ask for reviews from your customers without making them feel pressured.
Another great way to boost your reviews is by running paid ads on Google Maps, as this will boost the visibility of your business and encourage more interactions from your existing customers.
While it is not the most obvious method for ranking on Google Maps, it is one of the most important. With the increasing prominence of the local pack in SERP, ensuring your Google Maps SEO is optimized will allow you to reach more customers and drive more business. By following these simple tips, you can begin to see your Google Maps rankings climb and grow your business. If you need more help with optimizing your Google Maps SEO, contact the experts at Semrush today!