Getting found on Google Maps can dramatically increase your online reach and business growth. However, it is not only important to be visible on Google Maps but also to rank high in the search engine results pages (SERP). In this article we share 10 ways you can improve your website ranking in Google Maps.
1. Embedding your Google Maps listing on your website
You can embed your Google Maps business listing directly on your website by going to the “Share” section of your Google My Business profile, then clicking the ‘Embed map’ link. This will add a clickable Google Maps link on your web page that can direct customers to your location.
2. Maintaining a mobile-friendly website
About 60% of Google searches are made from mobile devices. This means it’s crucial to have a mobile-friendly website that loads quickly and doesn’t require pinching, zooming or side-scrolling to load. A mobile-friendly website is a ranking factor in both Google Maps and the regular search engine results pages.
3. Building a quality citation network
The more relevant and trustworthy your citations are, the better you’ll rank in Google Maps. Make sure that you’re only getting citations from reputable local websites, and that the locations listed are accurate and consistent across all of them. This will help prevent your rankings from fluctuating.
4. Creating a structured data markup for your business listing
Adding Structured Data to your Google My Business listing can significantly increase your chances of ranking higher in Google Maps. It will allow Google to understand and crawl your business information more easily and display it correctly on the SERP.
5. Increasing the number of reviews for your business
The amount and quality of your reviews for your business is one of the most significant factors in your Google Maps ranking. You should always encourage your customers to leave a review, and be sure to respond to any negative ones in a professional manner. It can also be helpful to offer incentives such as coupons, free products, or anything else that will encourage your customers to write a review.
6. Optimizing your local SEO
You can optimize your local SEO on both your GMB profile and your website. The process is very similar to organic SEO, but there are some key differences. For example, you should optimize your website for local search by using relevant keywords in your content and by using a structured data markup for your business.
7. Monitoring your results
It’s a good idea to regularly check your Google Maps website ranking with tools like Rank Tracker. These tools will provide you with an overview of your Google Maps and regular search engine results rankings for the keywords you’re targeting. You can use these tools to identify areas where you need to improve, and to see the progress that you’re making over time.
Getting ranked higher on Google Maps is not always easy, but it’s a necessary part of any local marketing strategy. By following these tips, you can improve your Google Maps ranking and drive more business to your website and physical storefront.