Get Found on Google Maps (Even If You’re Not in the Top 3!)

Hey there, awesome small business owners! Linda Donnelly here, and let’s talk more about making sure your business pops up on Google Maps. We all know that sweet spot in the top 3 of the local pack is like winning the lottery, but don’t get discouraged if you’re not there right away. There are still tons of smart ways to get seen by those eager local customers!

Why the Map Pack is a Big, Big Deal (It’s Where the Customers Are Hunting!)

Think of the Google Map Pack as the main street in your town, but online. It’s the first place people look when they need something nearby, and if you’re not visible, you’re basically closed for business in the digital world.

• Remember this big number: 46% of all Google searches are for local information! (Source: Search Engine Journal) That’s almost half the entire internet saying, “Show me what’s around!” If you’re a local business, this is your playground.
• And get this: 88% of folks who do a local search on their phone are ready to call you, visit your website, or even walk into your store within 24 hours! (Source: BrightLocal) These are high-intent customers, ready to spend their money!
• Now, here’s a stat you might not hear every day: Businesses that appear in the Map Pack see a whopping 70% higher chance of getting a local customer to visit their physical location. That’s right, just being on the map can bring people through your door!

Cool Ways to Get Seen (Even If You’re Not Ruling the Top 3) 1. Make Your Google Business Profile So Awesome It Shines!

Your Google Business Profile (GBP) is your digital superhero suit! Make it the best it can be.

• Go Super Detailed: Don’t just put the basics. Add everything Google lets you! Think about your services, your products, even things like accessibility and Wi-Fi. The more complete you are, the more helpful you are to Google and potential customers.
• Pick Extra Categories: You can choose more than one category for your business. Be specific! If you’re a pizza place that also sells subs, list both!
• Become a Photo and Video Star: Pictures and videos make your listing pop! Show off your best stuff. Did you know that listings with photos get 35% more clicks? (Source: Google) Videos can be even more engaging!
• Answer Questions Like a Champ: Use the Q&A section to answer common questions people have before they even ask. You can even add your own FAQs!

 2. Reviews, Reviews, Glorious Reviews!

Reviews are like online gold stars! They tell Google and potential customers that you’re trustworthy.

• Ask Nicely and Often: Don’t be shy! After a great experience, politely ask for a review.
• Make it a Breeze: Send direct links to your Google Review page. The easier it is, the more likely people will do it.
• Respond to Everyone: Thank people for good reviews, and address bad ones professionally. Even a negative review can be a chance to show off your awesome customer service!

3. Make Your Website a Local Magnet

Your website is still your home base! Make it super local-friendly:

• Local Keywords Everywhere: Sprinkle those “your town” keywords throughout your website content.
• Show Your Address and Phone Number: Make it easy to find on every page, usually in the footer.
• Talk About Your Neighborhood: Create blog posts or pages about local events or things your business does in the community.
• Get Local Links: Ask other local businesses or organizations to link to your website.

4. Be a Directory Dynamo! (Citations)

Think of online directories like extra signs pointing to your business.

• Get Listed Everywhere: Make sure your business is listed accurately on Yelp, Yellow Pages, and other important directories.
• Keep it Consistent: Remember that NAP? Make sure it’s exactly the same on every single directory.

5. Social Media: Your Local Cheerleader!

Social media helps you connect with people in your town.

• Share Local Love: Post about local events, support other local businesses, and show you’re part of the community.
• Run Local Ads: Target your ads to people in your specific area.

6. Little Known Secrets for a Big Boost!

• Local Schema Markup: This special code on your website tells Google even more about your business, like your hours, address, and reviews. It’s like giving Google a cheat sheet!
• Google Posts: Your Mini-Billboard: Use Google Posts regularly to share updates, offers, and events. They show up right in your Google listing!
• Focus on Long-Tail Keywords: Instead of just “pizza,” try “best gluten-free pizza delivery in downtown Lafayette.” These longer, more specific searches often have higher conversion rates.

Business Solutions Marketing Group: Your Local SEO Dream Team!

At Business Solutions Marketing Group, we’ve been helping small businesses like yours conquer the local search scene for over a decade. We know all the ins and outs of Google Maps and local SEO, and we’re here to help you get seen!

We can help you:

• Make your Google Business Profile shine.
• Get you listed in all the right places online.
• Optimize your website for local searches.
• Create a social media strategy that connects with your community.

Stop Being a Hidden Gem!

Don’t let your business get lost in the digital crowd. Local SEO is your key to getting found by the customers who are looking for you right now. Let Business Solutions Marketing Group be your guide!

Contact us today for a free consultation, and let’s get you on the map!

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