“Google map listings appear above the organic listings and generate about half of all the clicks on the page,” said Paul Dughi, CEO at StrongerContent.com. “Getting listed in the map pack is crucial, especially for local search.”
Google Maps is an essential tool for local businesses to reach out to their target audience. With the right strategy, your business can appear on the top of the search results, driving more traffic and sales. Here are some tips on how to rank higher on Google Maps:
Optimize Your Google Business Profile Listing
Your Google Business Profile listing is the most important factor in determining your ranking on Google Maps. You need to make sure that your listing is complete and accurate, with up-to-date information, including your business name, address, phone number, website, hours of operation, and business category. You should also add photos, videos, and posts to your GMB listing to make it more engaging and informative.
Get More Reviews
Reviews are a crucial ranking signal for Google Maps. The more positive reviews you have, the higher your business will rank. You should encourage your customers to leave reviews on your GMB listing by providing excellent customer service, sending follow-up emails or text messages, and offering incentives for leaving reviews.
Use Local Keywords
Using local keywords in your GMB listing, website, and content can help you rank higher on Google Maps. You should research the local keywords that your target audience is using and include them in your GMB listing, website content, and meta tags.
“The Google Keyword Planner is a free tool that’s easy to use to find what’s ranking,” said Dughi.
Build Local Citations
Citations are online references to your business name, address, and phone number (NAP) on other websites. Building local citations can help you increase your visibility and credibility, which can lead to higher rankings on Google Maps. You should create listings on local directories, social media platforms, and review sites, such as Yelp, TripAdvisor, and Yellow Pages.
Use Google Maps Ads
Google Maps Ads is a paid advertising option that allows you to promote your business on Google Maps. With Google Maps Ads, you can appear on the top of the search results, drive more traffic to your website, and increase your sales. You should consider using Google Maps Ads if you want to boost your visibility and reach a larger audience.
In conclusion, ranking higher on Google Maps requires a combination of on-page optimization, off-page optimization, and advertising. By following the tips above, you can improve your ranking on Google Maps and reach out to your target audience.
Sources:
- “Google My Business Help: Optimize your Business Profile,” Google, https://support.google.com/business/answer/3038177
- “Improve your local ranking on Google,” Google, https://support.google.com/business/answer/7091
- “Local SEO: The Definitive Guide,” Moz, https://moz.com/local-seo