Getting the attention of the right customers leads to success.
But how do you make sure people find your business when they search on Google Maps?
Many business owners think it’s too hard, but it’s really not. When people search for services near them, you want to be one of the first options they see.
Our 11 simple steps will show you how to improve your Google Maps ranking – no confusing tech talk.
These steps have helped thousands of small businesses rank higher on Google Maps. Whether you own a café, a dental clinic, a repair shop, or any other business, these easy tips will help local customers find you faster.
Table of Contents
Why Does Your Google Maps Ranking Impact Your Business?
When potential customers search nearby, appearing at the top of results is essential for success. Here’s why securing a high position on Google Maps is vital for your business:
a. More Visibility, More Customers
Google Maps is the top navigation app on Android and Apple, with over 10 billion downloads on the Google Play Store.
Most people overlook the top three results when searching for a business.
If your listing isn’t ranked high, you may miss out on customers. These are the customers who could have been walking through your doors.
Want to rank better on Google’s search results? Check out our guide on how to rank higher on Google’s search and boost your visibility!
b. Discovery Searches Are Key
84% of people find businesses on Google Maps through a keyword search, not by directly typing the business name.
It means your potential customers are looking for services like yours.
For example, they might search for “best coffee shop near me.” Your company needs to show up at the top of these search results.
c. The Local 3-Pack Advantage
The top three listings on Google Maps are called the “Local 3-Pack.” These listings don’t just show up on Maps. They also appear in regular Google Search results.
And since 46% of all Google searches have local intent, being in the Local 3-Pack means more people can see and choose your business.
A Google ranking tool, like the Google Maps Rank Checker, can show you all the places your website appears on Google Maps and in the 3-Pack results.
d. Better Listings = More Engagement
Finally, the steps you take to rank higher, such as…
- Adding photos
- Updating information
- Getting reviews
These actions make your listing more useful and engaging for potential customers.
86% of people use Google Maps to look up businesses.
It improves your rank and can give you more chances to connect with them.
We can help your business stand out and drive local traffic through Google Maps ranking improvements.
Tips to Rank Higher on Google Maps
Want more people to find your business on Google Maps?
It’s like having a big sign that everyone can see. Being at the top of the list brings more customers to your door.
At PixelCrayons, we know how important this is. We’ve worked hard to build our own Google Maps presence. It took time and effort, but we saw the difference it made for our business.
Let us show you how to do it in easy steps. You’ll be able to get the most out of Google Maps.
1. Claim Your Listing on Google Business Profile
Struggling to get noticed locally? Claiming your Google Business Profile is the first step to improving your visibility.
Here’s how:
- Open Google Maps on your computer.
- Search for your business name.
- If listed, click “Claim this business” and select “Manage now.”
- Follow the steps to verify ownership.
If your business isn’t listed, add it:
- Type your address into the search bar and click “Add your business.”
- Right-click on any map location and choose “Add your business.”
- Use the menu in the top-left corner and select “Add your business.”
Once listed, add accurate information about your business to boost your Google Maps ranking.
Alternate Way to List – Visit business.google.com/create and sign in with your Google Account to check or add your business.
In case your website isn’t showing up on Google, we can help you claim your listing on Google Business Profile and get noticed by local customers.
2. Optimize Your NAP (Name, Address & Phone Number)
Is your business information inconsistent across platforms? This confuses customers and search engines.
Why does this matter?
Consistency in your NAP boosts your credibility and improves your Google Maps ranking.
How to fix it?
- Use the exact name as it appears on your storefront.
- Include complete address details –
Add suite numbers, floors, or unit information.
- Provide a primary phone number and up to two additional numbers (no fax numbers).
- For service areas, specify cities, postal codes, or regions.
Helpful tips –
- Avoid changing your NAP after verification, as it may require re-verification.
- Skip the address if customers don’t visit your location.
We offer Google SEO services to help optimize your NAP (Name, Address, & Phone Number) so your business shows up in local searches.
Our digital marketing experts make sure your name, address, and phone number are accurate everywhere, building trust with all your customers.
3. Keep Your Information Up to Date
Customers showing up when you’re closed? That’s lost business!
How to set your hours?
- Open your Business Profile
- Click “Edit profile”
- Go to the “Hours” tab
- Select days you’re open
- Specify exact operating hours
- Save your changes
Special situations –
- For 24-hour businesses, select “24 hours” option
- You can show break times by adding separate time entries
- Add “More hours” for specific services like delivery or takeout
Every time something changes, update it on your Google Business Profile immediately. This shows professionalism and keeps customers happy.
4. Use Keywords – Help Google Understand Your Business
Is your listing missing key terms that customers search for? This could keep your business from appearing in relevant searches.
Keywords help Google understand your business and connect you with the right audience.
How to do it?
- Research keywords customers use to find businesses like yours.
- Use these terms naturally in your business description, posts, and services.
- Avoid keyword stuffing – focus on readability.
Helpful tips –
- Mention your location to target local customers.
- Update descriptions regularly to reflect new services.
Wondering how local businesses get noticed? We have a detailed post on how to do local SEO? to help you improve your local search rankings.
5. Encourage Customers to Leave Reviews
Do you lack customer reviews? Potential customers might hesitate to trust your business.
Customer reviews are a key factor in Google Maps ranking and building trust.
Most happy customers don’t leave reviews unless you ask them. You can simply share your Google review link –
Find it under “Ask for reviews” in your Business Profile.
Here’s when to ask –
- Right after a successful sale
- When a customer gives you verbal praise
- After completing a service, they loved
- In follow-up emails
- Use a QR code for easy access.
Just say something simple like: “We’re glad you enjoyed your experience! Would you mind sharing it on Google Maps?”
6. Stay Engaged by Sharing Updates & Promotions
Is your profile static and outdated? Customers might think your business isn’t active.
Let people know if you’re running a sale or offering a new service! Posting updates and promotions shows customers that your business is active and engaged.
Here’s how to do it –
- Post about sales, events, or special deals.
- Share updates about new products or services.
- Publish at least a couple of updates each month.
Active profiles signal to Google (and customers) that your business is worth checking out.
Looking for more customers? Learn how Google Ads for higher conversion rates can help you drive more business through targeted ads.
We use advanced techniques to boost your visibility on Google Maps and drive more in-store visits.
7. Add High-Quality Photos
Does your profile lack images? Customers might skip over your listing for one that looks more inviting.
Why is it important?
Photos make your business more attractive and help customers recognize your location.
Tips to do it right –
a. Upload photos of your:
- Storefront.
- Products and services.
- Team in action.
b. Follow these specs:
- Use JPG or PNG format.
- Size: 10 KB to 5 MB.
- Resolution: At least 720 px.
Points to keep in mind –
- Avoid heavy filters – keep it real.
- Add videos to enhance engagement.
8. Optimize Your Website for Local Search
Make your website work for you.
Your Google Maps ranking can improve if your website is optimized for local search.
Here’s what to focus on –
- Create pages with location-specific keywords.
- Make your website mobile-friendly.
- Improve loading speeds to give visitors a seamless experience.
When your website is tailored for local users, you’ll rank higher on both Google Maps and regular search results.
9. Include Links to Your Website & Social Media
Is it hard for customers to learn more about your business? Missing links make it harder for customers to connect.
Why does this matter?
Links to your website and social media improve accessibility and customer experience.
Steps to do it?
a. Include direct links for:
- Reservations.
- Online orders.
- Appointments.
b. Add social media links (if available in your region).
Helpful tips –
- Keep links updated and accurate.
- Add relevant calls-to-action.
Easier navigation for customers leads to higher engagement.
10. Always Respond to Reviews
Do you ignore customer reviews? This might give the impression that you don’t care about feedback.
Positive reviews help attract new customers.
Here’s how to get more reviews –
1. Share your review link:
- On Google Search, click “Ask for reviews.”
- On Google Maps, go to “Customers > Reviews > Get more reviews.”
2. to thank-you emails, receipts, or after-service messages.
3. Use a QR code generator to make it easy for customers to scan and leave a review.
Respond to Reviews
Engaging with reviews shows you care. Here’s how:
- Thank customers for their feedback.
- Address concerns politely and offer solutions.
- Highlight positive comments to reinforce your strengths.
Even negative reviews can be an opportunity to show excellent customer service.
Want to stay ahead of the competition? Stay updated with the latest Google algorithm updates to make sure your site ranks higher.
11. Add Your Business to Local Directories
Are you only focusing on Google for your online visibility?
Directories like Yelp, TripAdvisor, and YellowPages might not be as popular as they once were, but they still help drive traffic and improve your ranking.
Steps to take –
- List your business in relevant directories.
- Make sure your NAP is consistent across all platforms.
- Keep your information accurate and updated.
Adding your business to more directories increases your chances of being discovered by potential customers.
5 Things to Avoid to Rank Higher
Want to rank higher on Google Maps? Avoid these common mistakes that can hurt your business visibility.
#1. Don’t Skip Your Google Business Profile
Your Google Business Profile is a must. If it’s incomplete or missing, you won’t show up in local search results. Make sure all details are filled in so that your local search engine rankings get better.
- Add your business name, address, and phone number.
- Choose the right business category.
- Add your website and working hours.
#2. Don’t Forget to Update Your Info
Outdated information can confuse customers and hurt your ranking. Always keep your details updated.
- Update your hours for holidays or special events.
- Correct any changes to your business address or contact info.
- Regularly add new photos of your business.
#3. Don’t Ignore Customer Reviews
Reviews are one of the biggest ranking factors. If you don’t respond to customer feedback, it shows you don’t care.
- Ask happy customers to leave positive reviews.
- Respond to all reviews, good or bad.
- Keep your responses polite and helpful.
#4. Don’t Use Fake Addresses or Info
Using fake addresses or misleading information can get your listing removed. Stick to accurate details.
- Never list a service area as your business address unless it’s true.
- Make sure all info matches what’s on your website.
- Avoid using P.O. boxes for your address.
#5. Don’t Skip Local SEO Basics
Local SEO helps your business rank better on Google Maps. Don’t ignore it!
- Use local keywords in your business description.
- Create local content like blog posts or events.
- Get listed in local online directories.
Are you missing out on local customers? We can help! Our Local SEO services make sure your business shows up when people near you search.
Our proven methods have boosted local rankings and visibility for thousands of businesses just like yours.
How PixelCrayons Helps You Succeed
You’ve seen all the steps to rank higher on Google Maps, right? But it can be tricky to do it all alone. As a certified Google partner agency, we’ve helped over 2500 businesses to show up when people search locally.
What makes us different? We actually know how Google’s algorithms work. Our team updates your Maps listing correctly – no tricks that might affect your business later. When Google changes something (which happens a lot!), we’re among the first to know and fix things for you.
Our custom SEO services aren’t about fancy promises – we just do what works.
So, let’s talk about your business and make a clear plan to help people find you on Google Maps.
The best part? You’ll always know what we’re doing and why. No confusing tech talk – just real results you can see.
