The map pack is the box of three local businesses Google shows with a map at the top of local searches. For many service businesses it brings in more calls than the website itself. If you're not in it, your competitors are getting those customers. Here's how to give your business the best chance of appearing.
What decides who appears in the map pack?
Google looks at three main things:
- Relevance: how well your profile matches what the person searched for
- Distance: how close your business is to the searcher or the area they searched
- Prominence: how well known and trusted your business is, based on reviews, links and activity
You can't change where you're based, but you can improve relevance and prominence a great deal.
Step 1: Verify your profile
Search for your business on Google Maps. If a profile exists, claim it. If not, create one at business.google.com. Google will ask you to verify that you own the business, usually by video, phone or post.
Step 2: Fill in every section
Complete profiles perform better. Make sure you've added:
- Your exact business name, without extra keywords
- Primary and secondary categories
- A clear description of what you do and where
- Every service you offer, with short descriptions
- Opening hours, including bank holidays
- Your service area if you visit customers
- Your website and booking links
Step 3: Add real photos
Upload photos of your work, your team, your premises and your vehicles. Real photos build trust far more than stock images. Add new ones every month.
Step 4: Build a steady flow of reviews
A steady stream of recent reviews matters more than a large number of old ones. Send your review link by text or email after every job, and reply to each review by name.
Step 5: Post updates
Use the Updates feature to share offers, recent projects, seasonal advice and news. It keeps your profile fresh and gives people more reasons to get in touch.
Step 6: Answer questions
The Q&A section lets people ask questions publicly. Add your own common questions and answers so the information is there before anyone asks.
Step 7: Link it to a strong website
Your profile and your website work together. A fast, mobile-friendly website with clear service pages and your location mentioned naturally helps Google trust your profile.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Adding keywords to your business name, which can get your profile suspended
- Using a virtual office address
- Letting reviews go unanswered
- Having different phone numbers on your profile and website
Need a hand?
Our Google Business Profile setup and Local SEO plans take care of all of this for you. Every care plan also includes regular Google Business Profile checks. Book a free call to find out where your profile stands.
Book a free 30-minute call. No pressure, no commitment.