Rank Higher in Google Maps
Get Your Listing to Show Up
Your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is the primary platform for displaying your business information on Google, including Maps and the Knowledge Graph. Quick tip: Google has rebranded this feature multiple times, from Google Local to being part of Google Plus+, but today it’s simply Google Business Profile.
This guide will help you optimize your Google Maps ranking to stay competitive. Let’s dive in!
How to Create a Google Business Profile
- Start Here – Visit the Google Business Profile setup page and click “Manage Now.”
- Use Your Business Domain Email – For a professional touch, log in with a business domain email (not @gmail.com or other general clients).
- Enter Accurate NAP Info – Use the same Name, Address, and Phone Number (NAP) as shown on your website. This ensures consistency across Google’s platform.
- Choose Relevant Categories – Google allows multiple categories, so choose as many relevant ones as possible to help customers and Google understand your offerings.
- Verify Your Profile – Google offers several verification methods:
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- Postcard (a physical mail option)
- Phone Verification (automated call)
- Email Verification (instant if your profile is linked with Google Search Console)
Eligibility varies, so check Google’s support page for further details.
- Complete Every Profile Section – This includes uploading photos and selecting relevant categories.
Google Business Profile Optimization
A study by BrightLocal shows that 84% of local searches focus on discovery, not direct queries. This means that people are more likely to search “bars near me” rather than a specific name. To maximize your profile’s reach, make sure to:
- Complete all profile fields
- Ensure consistent contact information
- Add primary and subcategories with local keywords
- Write a “from the business” description
- Regularly upload new photos
- Respond to reviews and questions
- Set up messaging and maintain the profile regularly
Mobile Optimization – Since 61% of local searches happen on mobile devices, ensure your site is mobile-friendly to capture these users.
Ranking Tips for Google Maps
To improve your chances of ranking on Google Maps, focus on these key areas:
Build Quality Backlinks
Backlinks, or hyperlinks from other sites pointing to yours, are critical to ranking. Here’s how to get them:
- Outreach – Contact other websites, highlighting how linking to yours adds value.
- Create High-Quality Content – Useful, engaging content attracts links.
- Infographics and Testimonials – Visuals and endorsements often lead to valuable links.
Analyzing your referral sources (sites that already link to you) can uncover new backlinking opportunities.
Build Niche Local Business Citations
Local citations are mentions of your NAP on various platforms, including social media. Platforms like Yelp or industry-specific ones (e.g., Grubhub for restaurants) can increase authority and help Google associate your business with your industry.
Using high-authority platforms for citations can further boost your online presence and brand awareness.
Optimize Your Homepage
Your homepage should clearly state who you are and what you do. Include relevant keywords in the title tags, metadata, and headings to help Google crawl and index your content easily. If you’re on WordPress, plugins like Yoast SEO simplify metadata management, benefiting local SEO.
Importance of Google Reviews
Google ranks local businesses based on three factors:
- Relevance – How well your business matches a search query.
- Distance – Proximity to the searcher.
- Prominence – Your online reputation, including reviews.
Encourage customers to leave reviews by sharing easy-to-access review links. Responding to reviews promptly, offering assistance, and maintaining professionalism builds credibility.
Final Thoughts: Rank Higher on Google Maps
Mastering local SEO requires a balance of on-page, off-page, and Google Business Profile strategies. Verifying your profile and optimizing your website for both local and traditional SEO will give your business a solid foundation. If this sounds overwhelming, our SEO tools and resources are here to help, or book a call with our SEO experts for personalized support!
