Google Local 3-Pack Map. Ever wonder how Google decides which businesses show on the coveted Local 3-Pack Map and how your business can appear on top?
Getting a business to appear in Google’s coveted Local 3-Pack on Maps can be a huge boost for visibility, especially for local small businesses.
How can your business do better in getting shown at the top of that map?
I have some insights as to how Google decides which three businesses make the cut. Plus, these tips can help your business improve your chances of appearing in the top spot!
Proximity to the Searcher
Google prioritizes businesses that are physically closer to the person who is doing the search. This is why results can change depending on where someone is located when they search. What can your business do?
- Google Business Profile: While proximity isn’t something your business can control, it proves how important it is for you to claim and optimize your Google Business Profile for local relevance.
Relevance to the Search Query
Google looks at the business category, keywords, and services listed on the Google Business Profile to determine how closely the business matches the search query. What can your business do?
- Choose the Right Categories: Use the primary business category that best describes your business (like “Insurance Agency” as primary), then add additional relevant categories (like “Auto Insurance” or “Health Insurance” as secondary).
- Use Keywords Wisely: Incorporate relevant keywords naturally in the Google Business Profile description and business updates. For instance, instead of a generic description, use phrases like “Northern Michigan auto insurance” or “comprehensive health insurance in Harbor Springs.”
- Update Business Services: List all services offered, even niche ones, so Google knows they’re relevant to various local searches.
Prominence – Online Authority and Reputation
Google assesses how well-known and well-reviewed a business is online. Prominence is influenced by review ratings, quantity of reviews, and backlinks from other websites. What can your business do?
- Encourage Reviews: Genuine, positive reviews helps build authority. Ask satisfied customers to leave a review, especially mentioning specific services (e.g., “Great auto insurance rates!”). Google prefers high-quality reviews over quantity, so each one counts.
- Respond to Reviews: Google notices when your business engages with your reviewers. This interaction will enhance customer trust.
- Get Quality Backlinks: Get your business listed on local directories, in news articles, or on partner sites. Local backlinks help Google see your business as a reputable source.
Complete and Optimize Google Business Profile
Google favors businesses with a fully optimized Google Business Profile. The more complete and updated your profile, the better your chances of ranking higher. What can your business do?
- Add Photos and Videos: Regularly upload new photos of your location, products, and team to give a sense of activity and engagement.
- Fill in All Business Details: Double-check that every field (address, hours, phone, website, etc.) is accurately filled. Use the “From the Business” description section to add relevant keywords and a clear description of your business.
- Post Updates Regularly: Post weekly or biweekly updates with promotions, new products, events, or seasonal messages. This shows Google that your business is active and engaging with the community.
Engage Using Google Business Profile Features
Features like Google Q&A, booking, and messaging options can boost visibility by creating a more interactive experience for users. What can your business do?
- Encourage Questions: The Q&A section allows potential customers to ask about services. Your business can answer these questions and even add your own common questions for more keyword relevance.
- Activate Messaging: Activate the messaging feature for a competitive edge, but only if you are able to respond promptly!
Local SEO on Your Website
A well-optimized website reinforces your Google Business Profile relevance. Google looks at the website linked to the profile to verify business information and local relevance. What can your business do?
- Optimize for Local Keywords: Ensure your own website has your primary keywords, location, and relevant services on key pages. Your “About Us” and “Contact” pages are especially important for local SEO.
- Add Location Pages if Needed: If you serve multiple locations, create dedicated pages for each area to strengthen local relevance.
- Embed Google Maps: Embedding a Google Map on your website’s contact page helps Google connect your business location with the website.
Google Local 3-Pack Map
Getting your business to appear in Google’s coveted Local 3-Pack Map can be a huge boost for visibility for your local small business.
With the strategies I shared above, your business can significantly improve your chances of ranking in the Google 3-Pack.
It’s about creating a robust, locally focused online presence that Google recognizes as relevant, prominent, and active within your community.
