Search engine optimization or SEO is one of the prime needs in this digital age which helps to appear better on the relevant search results. You might not know, but Google Maps also plays a vital role in increasing visibility for various businesses regardless of the industry it belongs to. Business listing in Google Maps can help to improve presence in the local search results which allows gaining more attention in the locale.
Why SEO for Google Maps is Important?
- It improves ranking in local search results and allows the creation of a solid Google Business Profile (GBP) which comes with the benefits of enhanced presence in the online market.
- Google Maps helps to gain more web traffic and organic engagements on the website as 70% of online users are more likely to visit a business website with GBP.
- Google Maps listing is one of the greatest ways to gain more trust from customers as online users are 2.7 times more likely to interact with a business that is listed on Google Maps.
- It can also showcase business information for curious visitors and attract them to the business website.
Ranking Higher with Google Maps in 10 Easy Ways
1. Claim Your Business on Google Maps
To improve SEO efforts, your business should be listed on the maps first. Search on Google whether a business profile already exists with the same name or not. If your business website is already listed, make sure to update your information including your name, contact information, operating hours, and many others.
2. Optimize GBP (Google Business Profile)
Start optimizing GBP as soon as you claim. With the help of online Listing Management tools; you can easily make the process for skillful and faster. The modern tools with their AI-based application are capable of automatically updating GBP. The process includes directory listings, social media, and many others. The positive reflection of your business should be spread across all directories and Google Maps as well.
3. Make Sure Post Regular Content
You can keep your GBP fresh and updated with the option of ‘Posts feature in GBP’. By posting fresh content, you can actually gather attention from more customers. There are a few ways to leverage it and that can differ based on the type of business or industry. Here are a few ideas,
- New Arrivals
- Announcement for Events
- Promotional Highlights
- Seasonal Suggestions for Services and Products.
4. Respond to Reviews
Reviews are the first thing that online users check before interacting with a business and that is why, it should be always maintained to keep a positive reputation in the market. Respond to all reviews whether it is positive or negative. It is your responsibility as a business owner to respond to all customers or potential users who can become loyal customers in the future. Be professional and polite enough to handle all situations. Businesses with higher ratings are more likely to rank higher in search engine result pages (SERP).
5. Optimize Your Website for Locale
This is essential to grab the attention of potential customers from the surrounding area or local regions. You can use local keywords, terms, and phrases through the description, metadata, and other mediums which can also boost the visibility of your website. Post relevant content that feels relatable for the people in the locale. It can also improve crawlability on your website for search engine spiders.
6. Keep NAP Insistent Across Different Listings
Google can use the NAP citations which helps them to verify businesses information and legitimacy. It offers a consistent performance on the web with greater abilities of listing management. Here are a few things that you need to keep the same across all platforms. Such as,
- GBP
- Apple Maps
- Bing Places
- Facebook
- Yelp
- The local Chamber of Commerce
7. Build Local and Relevant Backlinks
Backlinks are an integral part of SEO which helps to bring more organic and potential visitors to your website. With proper backlinks, it is possible to create a strong map strategy that expands the business network. For search engines, it is like a vote of confidence which is more trustworthy for Google. Having an effective link-building strategy for Google Maps is not just important but compulsory to gain more visibility.
8. Local Business Schema
It is a type of structured data that can be provided to Google as additional information for your business. You can add this data in the HTML source on your home page as well. Schema helps to make prominent business websites appear more successfully on the search results.
9. Long-tail Keywords
Long-tail keywords usually have a low search volume as they are broader than the regular. It can also help to achieve a higher conversion rate where a massive number of visitors can turn into loyal fans. It is less complicated, and specific and helps to gain more traction in the competitive market.
10. Embedded Google Maps on Website
Embedding Google Maps is one of the greatest ways to improve SEO. You can simply add patiently wait till you win. GBP also helps to understand the geographical area where the business is situated. It is like having a business card that can boost visibility and cater to more audience.
These tips are highly empowering and can be followed by any kind of business owner in the market whether a small-scale business or a large organization. Improving presence on Google Maps can actually have some impact on business growth.
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