20 Mar How to Rank in Google Maps
Ranking high on regular Google Search is great for Australian businesses. But for some niches, appearing on Google Maps may be even more lucrative.
For those of you who don’t know, Google Maps shows brand locations so users can see where to get services. If someone types in “laundromats in Brisbane,” Maps will show them where these businesses are. Then, users simply click on the business’s website or call them directly with the provided phone number.
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Given how many users rely on Google Maps to find services, ranking well here is critical. If you can appear on the sidebar, you can boost organic traffic to your site substantially.
Furthermore, the top three businesses on Google Maps will also appear in the business box in search results.
Here’s an example:
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You can see the map here with the locations (as before) but also Google’s three top business picks for locals looking for laundry services.
So, of course, you’re asking: “How can I get into the top three for Google Maps?”
This guide answers that question. It tells you what you must do for the highest chance of success.
Claim Your Google Business Profile
The first step is to claim your Google Business Profile (GBP). (Previously, Google called it “Google My Business.”)
You can do this by going to business.google.com.
As you go through it, fill out every field. Ensure you include any relevant information Google’s search algorithms can use to promote your business.
Make sure you write a detailed description of what you do when prompted to enter details into the box provided. This statement is as much for Google as it is for your customers.
Then, upload high-quality photos of your products and storefront–anything that will attract customers to click on your site.
Encourage Reviews
Next, you want to encourage reviews, which appear prominently next to your business information.
Generally, the more five-star reviews you can collect, the better. Google will reward you by ranking you higher in the business box, making it more likely you will get into the top three.
If you receive a review, always respond to it. Don’t leave customers waiting (even if it is positive): say thank you if they write something nice, or apologise and offer to compensate them in some way if they don’t.
You want your average rating to be 4+ stars. You’ll notice that all the top laundromat businesses in Adelaide are in this range.
Ensure Consistent NAP Across The Web
At the same time, ensure your business name, address and phone are consistent across the web. Differences can cause Google to trust you less, down-ranking you on Maps.
You don’t need to do this manually. Special software can crawl the web, look for inconsistencies and correct them. However, it’s always worth checking popular directories, social media accounts, and your website by hand to ensure everything matches.
Once you get the consistency right, Google trusts you more, helping you rise in search results.
Optimise For Mobile
Google Business Profiles will optimise for mobile for you, but you should take a smartphone-first approach to rank higher on Maps.
Remember, most Aussies (or tourists) looking for local businesses will search for them on their phones.
They often want to find nearby businesses that serve their needs, like barber shops or restaurants.
Therefore, optimise for “near me” searches where possible. Weave this phrase (and your location) into your website copy, service descriptions, social media posts, and anything else that can signal to Google that your business matters for the local area.
Furthermore, compete on local keywords to ensure your business shows up and not any other.
For example, let’s say you own a pet grooming business in Brisbane and want more business. Most companies go for dog owners, but you could offer rare services, like exotic animal care. As such, you could include this in your keyword targeting.
For example, here’s what happens on Google Maps when you type in “pet grooming Brisbane”:
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But now look at what happens when the user changes the keyword to “exotic pet grooming Brisbane:”
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As you can see, Google Maps changes the businesses it prioritises, based on the keywords their websites target and the services they offer. Those lower down the list rise because they are more relevant.
Leverage Schema Markup
Leveraging schema markup is another pro strategy for ranking higher on Google Maps. It works by including information Google can interpret directly on your website’s backend, allowing it to understand your business’s details.
Usually, you will add most of this to your Google Business Profiles page. However, Google’s Structured Data Testing Tool can help you see if your schema markup meets the search engine’s criteria.
You can also use AIOSEO for WordPress business sites. It can include schema markup, helping you provide Google with even more information.
Add Great Photos And Videos
Adding great photos and videos to your Google Business Profile can also increase your chances of entering the top three on Google Maps. This approach works because it engages potential customers and boosts trust. If people can see your brand in action, they are more likely to use it.
Therefore, you should upload:
- Photos of your team and what you sell
- Images of your business’s physical premises (if you have one)
- Especially the outside of the building to help people find you!
- Short video tours of your company and what you do
- Video testimonials or reviews of your services
- Geotags with additional image context
Why These Strategies Make Sense for Local Businesses
Businesses strive to rank well on Google Maps globally. However, Australia’s mobile-first culture makes this even more imperative. Prioritising mobile optimisations and local relevance makes it more likely you will capture an audience and win business organically, without paying for pay-per-click (PPC) advertising constantly.
Ultimately, ranking in the top three on Google Maps requires optimising your Google Business Profile and using a mix of strategies that support your SEO efforts. Getting it right is hard, but the rewards are substantial once you succeed.
