If you’ve ever searched for a business like “pizza near me” or “plumber in Chicago,” you’ve probably noticed a handy map at the top of the search results. That’s the local map pack, and being featured there can transform your business.
The local map pack appears at the top of Google’s search results, making it one of the first things users see. Being listed there ensures your business grabs attention, even before the standard search results, leading to increased visibility, higher click-through rates, and greater trust from potential customers.
So, how do you get your business to rank on the map pack? Read our beginner-friendly guide on how to rank your local business on the local map pack here:
What Is the Local Map Pack?
The local map pack is the top section of a Google search results page that displays nearby businesses relevant to a search query. It shows:
- Business names
- Ratings and reviews
- Contact information
- A map pinning their locations
When people search for local services, they’re often ready to visit a physical location. Ranking in the map pack increases the chances they’ll choose your business for a visit, especially since it displays your address.
The map pack also makes it easy for users to engage with your business through quick links to call, visit your website, or get directions. Appearing here means more visibility, more clicks, and potentially more customers!
How To Get Ranked In The Local Map Pack?
Step 1: Claim and Optimize Your Google Business Profile
What’s a Google Business Profile?
This is your business’s home on Google Maps and search. It’s free, but you need to claim it.
How to Claim Google Business Profile:
- Go to Google Business Profile.
- Sign in with your Google account.
- Follow the prompts to add or claim your business.
Optimize Your Profile:
- Fill Out Everything: Include your address, phone number, website, and business hours.
- Add Photos: Showcase your storefront, products, or happy customers.
- Pick the Right Categories: Be specific! Instead of “Store,” try “Organic Grocery Store.”
- Write a Killer Description: Mention your unique services, your location, and keywords your customers might search for. Think of what makes you special? Sprinkle in local keywords like your neighborhood or city.
Step 2: Build Local Citations
What’s a Local Citation?
A local citation is any online mention of your business name, address, and phone number (NAP). These could be in directories like Yelp, TripAdvisor, or your local chamber of commerce website.
Why Local Citation Is Important:
Google uses citations to verify your business information. The more consistent and accurate your details are across the web, the more Google trusts you.
Pro Tips:
- Use the same formatting of your NAP everywhere.
- Submit your business to local directories (think Yellow Pages, BBB, etc.).
- Regularly check for duplicate or outdated listings and clean them up.
Step 3: Collect Customer Reviews
Reviews can make or break your map pack ranking. Businesses with higher ratings and more reviews tend to get more clicks—and Google notices that.
How to Get Reviews:
- Ask Happy Customers: A polite, timely request goes a long way.
- Make It Easy: Share a direct link to your review page.
- Respond to Every Review: Thank positive reviewers and professionally address complaints.
Step 4: Use Local Keywords on Your Website
Google connects your website content with your Google Business Profile. Optimizing your website helps boost your visibility.
How to Find Local Keywords:
- Use tools like Google Keyword Planner or Ubersuggest.
- Focus on terms that have your local location or city, like “coffee shop in Seattle” or “family dentist near Atlanta.”
Where to Use Them:
- Homepage Title Tag:g., “Best Family Dentist in Atlanta, GA.”
- Meta Description: A short, enticing summary for search engines.
- Blog Posts: Write about local events, tips, or news.
Step 5: Add Location Pages if You Have Multiple Locations
If you operate in multiple cities, create a separate page for each location. For example:
- URL: com/locations/denver
- Content: Include the address, local keywords, and unique info about that location.
Step 6: Keep Your Info Updated
Your business details should always be current. Update your profile and website if:
- You change your hours.
- You move locations.
- You add new services.
Google rewards businesses that stay active and accurate.
Step 7: Get Backlinks from Local Websites
Backlinks are links from other websites to yours. Local backlinks tell Google you’re relevant in your area.
How to Earn Local Backlinks:
- Partner with local bloggers or influencers.
- Sponsor community events or charities (and get a mention on their sites).
- Network with other businesses for cross-promotions.
Step 8: Post Regularly on Your Google Business Profile
Google loves fresh content! Use the “Posts” feature on your profile to share updates like:
- Special offers
- New products or services
- Events or seasonal promotions
Step 9: Monitor Your Results
Use tools like Google Analytics and Google Search Console to track:
- How many people find you via Google Maps.
- How they interact with your website.
- What search terms do they use.
Adjust your strategy based on what works best!
Bottom Line
Ranking in the local map pack is one of the most effective ways to grow your business. It increases your visibility, drives foot traffic, and builds trust with customers without requiring a big financial investment.
By focusing on optimizing your Google Business Profile, collecting reviews, and engaging with your local community, you can position your business as the go-to choice in your area. Ranking on the local map pack doesn’t happen overnight, but with consistent effort, it’s achievable.
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