How to Rank Your Google Business Profile #1 on Google Maps

Optimising your Google Business Profile is key if you want more local customers. Google Maps is where people go to find businesses nearby. So, ranking at the top means more eyes on your business.

There’s a lot of advice out there about SEO, but much of it misses the mark. Instead of getting sidetracked by quick-fix tricks, let’s focus on what works. These steps come from the Local Search Ranking Factors Report, which top experts rely on to get real results.

With a few changes and the right tools, you can improve your ranking and help your business stand out.

GMB Everywhere: The Tool You Need

A quick way to get ahead of your competitors is by using GMB Everywhere. This Chrome extension gives you useful information about other businesses in your area, such as their reviews and business categories.

Once you’ve installed the tool, search for your business type on Google Maps. GMB Everywhere will show you the details that matter. This way, you can see what competitors are doing right and where you can improve.

It’s a smart way to make informed decisions, not guesses.

Focus on What Matters

The Local Search Ranking Factors Report lists the key things that affect your position on Google Maps. There are about 20 ranking factors, but you don’t need to worry about all of them.

To get results quickly, focus on these: your Primary Business Category, Business Name, Google Reviews, and Backlinks. These are the big ones that have the most impact on your ranking.

Let’s look at each of these in detail.

Choose the Right Primary Business Category

Your Primary Business Category is the most important factor for your ranking on Google Maps. This is how Google knows what your business does.

Choosing the right category can seem simple, but it’s worth checking your options. For example, if you run a nail and beauty salon, you may find that “Nail Salon” has more searches than “Beauty Salon.” Picking the one with more traffic could help you get noticed faster.

Use GMB Everywhere to see what your competitors are choosing. You’ll also find out if there are relevant secondary categories that you can add. Make sure your category matches the content on your website for the best results.

Use Keywords in Your Business Name

Your business name is the second most important factor for Google Maps rankings. If possible, add a relevant keyword to your business name to help you rank for it.

For example, if your business offers plumbing services, a name like “Jones Plumbing” will do better than just “Jones.” But remember, Google requires your business name to reflect your real-world name, so keep it genuine.

Simple changes like this can make a big difference.

Get Google Reviews

Reviews are one of the best ways to build trust with potential customers. They also help you rank higher on Google Maps. The more positive reviews you get, the better your chances of showing up at the top.

Ask your customers to leave a review after they’ve done business with you. Google encourages this. Also, try to get them to mention specific services in their reviews, such as “great plumbing service in [location].” Reviews like this help you rank for those terms.

Respond to every review, whether it’s good or bad. A quick reply shows you value your customers. This also makes your business look more active and engaged.

Build Local Backlinks

Backlinks—links from other websites to yours—are still an important factor for ranking on Google. Local backlinks, in particular, can help boost your ranking on Google Maps.

Reach out to local blogs, community organisations, or the local chamber of commerce to see if they’ll link to your website. These links help show Google that your business is part of the local community, which improves your ranking.

Focus on getting links from trusted local sources, not just any website. Quality matters as much as quantity here.

Track Your Progress

After making these changes, it’s important to track your progress. The GMB Everywhere Teleport feature helps you check your ranking in different areas. It lets you see how your business ranks from different locations without leaving your desk.

You can also use tools like BrightLocal to monitor your rankings over time. Keeping an eye on your progress helps you know what’s working and where you might need to adjust.

These steps are simple but effective. By focusing on what matters most—your business category, name, reviews, and backlinks—you can improve your Google Business Profile and start ranking higher on Google Maps. Stick with these proven tactics, and you’ll see real results.