Google Maps SEO is the work of making a business easier to find in Google Maps and the local pack. The focus is the Google Business Profile, not the website. Ahrefs and EmbedSocial describe it the same way, as optimizing the listing rather than traditional page optimization.
What affects the ranking?
Google names three factors for local ranking.
- Relevance is how well the profile matches the search. Complete and accurate details help Google match it.
- Distance is how far the business is from the person searching.
- Prominence is how well known the business is. Google ties it to links from other websites and to the number of reviews.
Google states that a better local ranking cannot be requested or paid for, and it keeps the algorithm confidential. Anything beyond these three factors is an estimate. Practice guides recommend a specific primary category, complete details, photos, consistent business data across the web and a steady flow of genuine reviews. These are recommendations from the SEO community, not Google rules.
Example
A bike shop in Denver keeps category, opening hours, photos and website URL current and asks customers after a purchase for an honest review. Whether it appears for “bike shop Denver” also depends on where the searcher is.
Common mistakes
- Adding extras to the business name. Google does not allow marketing taglines, opening hours, phone numbers, or service and location details in the name. It can lead to a suspended profile.
- Several profiles for one location. Google asks for one page per location, also across several accounts.
- A P.O. box or virtual office as the address. Google does not accept P.O. boxes or addresses where the business does not operate.
- Leaving the profile unverified and incomplete. Google lists verification and complete, accurate details as what makes a business more likely to appear in local results.
- Counting on a paid ranking. According to Google there is no way to request or pay for a better local ranking.
Related measures
Consistent name, address and phone data (NAP) across the web and a website that matches the business and the area complement the profile. Step-by-step instructions belong in a guide and not in a glossary.
FAQ
Is there SEO for Google Maps? Yes. It follows the local ranking factors above and works through the Business Profile.
Sources
- Tips to improve your local ranking on Google – Google Business Profile Helpsupport.google.com
- Guidelines for representing your business on Google – Google Business Profile Helpsupport.google.com
- Google Maps SEO – Ahrefs (secondary)ahrefs.com
- Google Maps SEO – EmbedSocial (secondary, vendor)embedsocial.com
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