How to Rank in Google Map Pack

Cracking the local ranking code isn’t just about being found—it’s about being found in the right way. If you’re looking to dominate the Google Map Pack and show up at the top of local search results, read on to discover what we do for clients like you. 

Our Local SEO services are here to get your business ranking locally. 

Google Map Pack Ranking Factors

The Google Map Pack is a feature that appears in the results when searching for a local business or service. The Google Maps listings are of three businesses, along with their locations on a map, right at the top of the search page. The feature is typically shown for queries like “restaurants near me” or “plumbers in [city].”

The goal of the Map Pack is to connect users with the most appropriate local businesses so they can find the services they need quickly. For the actual business, ranking in the Map Pack and higher on Google Maps can lead to more visibility, increased website traffic and more foot traffic to physical locations.

When it comes to showing up in the Google Map Pack, there’s a lot more than just location that influences your ranking. Google’s algorithm weighs three primary factors: Relevance, Distance and Prominence. Understanding these can help you fine-tune your Google Business Profile and boost your chances of ranking higher.

Relevance

Google’s primary job is matching searchers with the best options for what they’re looking for, which is what the criteria for ranking higher on Google are based on.

Relevance is how well your business matches a user’s search intent.  It’s all about the details: the more information you provide, the better Google can understand what your business offers.

This means ensuring your profile is complete and up-to-date and includes keywords that match your services, industry and location.

The more you help Google understand your business, the better it can serve you in relevant searches.

Distance

Distance plays a key role in determining which businesses are displayed to users. If a searcher doesn’t specify a location, Google will calculate the distance based on where it believes the searcher is located.

For example, if someone searches for a “coffee shop” and doesn’t provide a location, Google prioritises businesses that are physically closer to them.

You can’t control the distance between your business and the searcher, but you can make sure your address is accurate in your Google Business Profile so Google gets the right context when calculating distance.

Prominence

Prominence is about how well-known your business is, online and offline. It’s like your reputation. Well-known landmarks or major hotel chains are examples of things that tend to naturally rank higher since people know about them.

That said, prominence isn’t just about fame. Google also considers your presence online and factors like links, articles, online directories, and your reviews and ratings. Having more positive Google reviews and higher ratings shows Google that your business is trusted and relevant.

How well your site performs in search results affects your prominence, too, so strong SEO practices across your site can improve your local ranking.

By optimising for all three factors—relevance, distance and prominence—you increase your chances of appearing in the coveted Google Map Pack and Google search in general.

How to Rank in Google Map Pack

Ranking in the Google Map Pack and for local search requires a mix of technical SEO and local optimisation for your business listing.

Ensure NAP Consistency

Your business name, address and phone number (NAP) should stay consistent across every platform, including your website, social media and online directories. Google uses NAP consistency to verify the legitimacy of your business and help it show up in local Google Maps search results.

Create a Fully Optimized Google Business Profile

A complete, optimised Google Business Profile (GBP) is essential for local Google searches. Make sure all of your business details are accurate, add high-quality photos, include relevant categories, and write a compelling business description. The more information Google has, the better it can match your business to search queries. Also, make sure you don’t have any duplicate listings.

Be Proactive About Getting Reviews

Positive reviews directly impact your Google ranking. Encourage satisfied and happy customers to leave feedback on your GBP. Not only does this build trust with other potential customers, but Google uses reviews as a prominence signal. Responding to reviews can also signal to Google that your business is currently active and engaged.

Improve Your Website SEO

Your website’s SEO isn’t just for organic search. It’s crucial for local rankings as well. Make sure your site is optimised for local keywords, fast-loading and mobile-friendly. A well-optimized website helps improve your visibility in search results and Google Maps.

Build Relevant Citations

Citations are mentions of your business across the web, whether or not they include a link.

Listings on local directories, industry-specific sites and review platforms can boost your credibility, but make sure these citations are consistent with your NAP. Discrepancies can hurt your ranking.

Regularly Update Your GBP

An up-to-date GBP is crucial to stay relevant. Update your business hours regularly, add new photos and keep information accurate. Active profiles are more likely to appear in searches, especially when your business is involved in the community or has regular updates.

Schema Markup for Your NAP

Using schema markup on your site helps search engines understand your NAP data. This added layer of structured data can make your businesses’ information clearer to Google, improving your chances of ranking higher in local searches.

What Not to Do

When optimising for the Google Map Pack, there are a few things to avoid to avoid being penalised or overlooked.

Don’t Keyword Stuff Your GBP

While using relevant keywords is important, overstuffing them into your Google Business Profile can hurt more than it helps. Google’s algorithm prioritises natural language and relevance. With that in mind, focus on creating an accurate, compelling profile without overloading it with keywords.

Don’t Get Fake Reviews (Or Paid Reviews)

While reviews are imperative, fake or paid ones can lead to Google penalties. The best way to build credibility is through authentic, organic feedback. Focus on providing great service and encouraging real customers to share their experiences. If you do get negative reviews, try to respond to them in a constructive, professional way.

Don’t Build Spammy Backlinks

Backlinks from irrelevant or low-quality sites can harm your site’s reputation and negatively impact your local ranking. Instead of relying on spammy tactics, focus on earning high-quality, relevant backlinks to strengthen your site’s authority.

Want a Local SEO Agency to Rank Your Business?

If you’re ready to take your business to the top of the Google Map Pack and drive more local traffic using Google Maps business listings, Prosperity Media is here to help. Our expert team specialises in local SEO strategies to improve your visibility and Google Maps ranking by increasing your relevance, prominence and ranking. 

We can also help you rank higher on Google in general, outside of local search. Get in touch today to start optimising your business for success, starting with your Google Maps rankings and Google Business Profile.