How Google Maps Rankings Work

Getting your business to rank at the top of the Google Map for key searches is every business owner’s dream. But how do Google Maps rankings actually work? In this article, we will break down what you need to understand about Google Map rankings and how to get your business ranking higher. Did you know that our service includes all of these items? We can help you rank higher! Contact us for more information.

First, you need to understand what Google is trying to accomplish with the map. The map was invented to make searching for a local business easier. In fact, before the map, Google searchers had to click on multiple websites and do their own comparisons. The Google Map does this comparison for the searcher. Side-by-side searchers can compare reviews, view posts, and even click-to-call from a mobile phone.

With that said, it is Google’s objective to display the very best businesses for each search at the top of the map. After all, they want their searchers to have an excellent experience with the businesses they find on Google so they will come back again and again. In order to attempt to display the best businesses, Google uses its computer programs and software algorithms to try and determine who will provide the best service, product, or experience. Read more below to find out how they do it…

Pro Tip: When is doubt about how Google Map rankings work, always place yourself in the shoes of Google. Ask yourself, “Will Google reward what I’m doing? Does it mean nothing? Or will it hurt me?”

First and foremost, you must tell Google who you are and what you do. Google’s algorithms read your website (if it is linked to your Google Business Profile) and they read the content of your Google Business Profile to find out about your organization. If you are a plumber, make sure your website thoroughly describes all of the services you offer. Be sure to list all of those services on the back end of your Google Profile as well. You also want to keep the front end of your Google Profile updated with the following information:

Pro Tip: Regularly updated your Google Business Profile (holiday hours, offers, new service territories) helps tell Google that you are relevant and will help you rank higher.

Customer reviews are one of the most important drivers behind a good map ranking. In fact, Google believes that if you are regularly getting reviews, then you must be busy with new customers. And if you are continually business with new work, it must be because you are good at your job. Consistent reviews alone will help drive your ranking!

On another note, did you know that you can respond to your customer reviews on Google? This is another key component to your ranking and your overall presence online. Responding to reviews will help you show up higher and also makes you look great to new customers. Read more about responding to reviews here.

Pro Tip: Review velocity (the rate at which you are getting new reviews) matters more than the review rating itself! Try your best to get a review from every single customer! Want to learn how we do it for our clients? Book a free consultation!

Post, post, and post some more! Posting regularly on major social media channels that are linked to your Google Business Profile shows Google that you are a live, active business that cares about its online presence. Furthermore, you should also post regularly on your Google Business Profile. Google’s algorithm reads your post captions and can help you show up for specific searches.

Pro Tip: Coming up with a system to stay consistent with posting is key! You must post every single week! Want to learn about how we are able to post 2 times per day for our clients? Seven days per week? Contact us below…

We are experts at getting plumbers and service contractors to the top of the Google Map for key searches in their service areas. Book a free consultation with us today and we can show you how we do it!