How to improve your local ranking on Google

by | Feb 3, 2023 | SEO

When someone searches for a business or place near their location, they’ll find local results across Google in places like Maps and Search. For example, you can probably find local results if you search for “Italian restaurant” from your mobile device. We try to show you the kind of nearby restaurant that you’d like to visit.

To improve your business’s local ranking, use Google Business Profile to claim and update your business information.  Learn more about how Google sources business information for search results. 

Update your business info for better visibility

You may find that your business doesn’t show up for relevant searches in your area. To maximize how often users find your business in local search results, ensure that your business information in Business Profile is accurate, complete, and engaging.

Enter complete data

Local results favor the most relevant results for each search. Businesses with complete and accurate information are easier to match with the right searches. 

Important: Make sure you keep your information up to date as your business changes.

Make sure you’ve entered complete business information in Business Profile so users know what you do, where you are, and when they can visit. Provide information like, but not limited to, your: 

  • Physical address
  • Phone number
  • Category
  • Attributes
Verify your locations

Verify your business locations so they’re more likely to show in local search results across Google products, like Maps and Search. Learn more about verification.

Keep your hours accurate

Update your business hours regularly, including when you open and close, and special hours for holidays and events. Accurate hours info lets shoppers know when you’re available and gives them confidence that your business will be open when they arrive

Manage & respond to reviews

Update your business hours regularly, including when you open and close, and special hours for holidays and events. Accurate hours info lets shoppers know when you’re available and gives them confidence that your business will be open when they arrive. Learn how to edit your hours.

Manage & respond to reviews

Respond to reviews that users leave about your business. When you reply to reviews, it shows that you value your customers and their feedback. High-quality, positive reviews from your customers can improve your business visibility and increase the likelihood that a shopper will visit your location. Learn how to create a link for customer reviews.

Add photos

To showcase your goods and services, and to tell the story of your business, add photos to your Business Profile. Accurate and appealing pictures may also show shoppers that your business offers what they’re searching for. Learn how to add photos or videos to your Business Profiles.

Add in-store products

If you run a retail business, you can show nearby shoppers what you sell by adding your in-store products to your Business Profile. Learn how to add products to your Business Profile.