Google Maps website ranking is a crucial aspect of any local SEO strategy. It is a great way to improve online visibility, attract more customers, and boost your business’s bottom line. However, securing the top-3 spots on Google Maps listing (also known as the “Map Pack”) is not an easy task. In order to rank high, you need to do a lot of work, from optimizing your Google My Business profile to building backlinks and creating reviews.
In 2016, Google changed the way it displayed results on SERPs by reducing the number of business listings to three. This change dramatically affected local SEO. Since then, focusing on Google Maps website ranking has become one of the main goals of most businesses.
Getting your business to appear in the first positions on Google Maps is essential for any local business, as it will increase the traffic inflow to your website and improve your organic reach as well. It will also boost customer traffic in your physical store, thereby leading to more leads and sales for your business. In addition, it will enhance your brand’s credibility and establish your reputation as an authority in your field.
The most important factor for ranking your Google Maps listing is its relevance to the search query. This metric is calculated by examining the keywords used in the query and the match with your business’s information. The proximity of your business to the searcher is another determining factor.
Make sure to include keywords in your business name and description, as this will help Google connect your business with relevant searches. Also, be sure to add photos of your products and services. Studies show that listings with photos receive 35% more clicks than those without.
To help you stand out from the competition, you should also have a mobile-friendly website. This is because the majority of Google searches are conducted on smartphones. A mobile-friendly site will ensure that your customers can find the information they need quickly and easily.
It is also important to keep your Google Business Profile up to date. This includes ensuring that your contact details are correct, adding photos, and updating the business hours. You should also encourage your customers to leave positive reviews and ratings on your business’s page. Google pays attention to these factors as they are a good indicator of the quality of your service.
It is also important to remove any spam listings from your Google My Business profile. You can do this by submitting a request to Google through the business redressal complaint form. However, this process can take some time. In the meantime, you can try using a third-party tool such as ManageMyMaps to flag any spam listings. These tools will send a request to Google on your behalf and will notify you when it has been resolved. They will also provide you with helpful tips on how to avoid spam in the future.