My Guide to Getting Found by Local Customers

Key Takeaways:

1. A complete Google Business Profile gets 7x more customer actions
2. Business profiles with photos get 42% more direction requests
3. Being in Google’s top 3 local results brings 126% more traffic
4. Verified profiles average 200 customer interactions monthly

Hi there Frank Masotti here.

I’ve spent years in the trenches helping local businesses just like yours show up where it matters most on Google Maps. My Google certified expertise isn’t just theory it’s based on real results for real businesses.

Let’s look at what’s working right now for local map rankings, and how you can use these strategies to bring more customers through your door.

Want to skip the reading and get a custom plan for your business? Book a no obligation strategy session with me we’ll look at your current setup and spot quick wins for your local visibility.

The Numbers Behind Local Search in 2024

Let me share some eye opening statistics that show why map rankings matter for your business:

Your 4 Step Plan for Google Maps Success

Step 1: Get Your Google Business Profile Working Harder
Your Google Business Profile (GBP) is your 24/7 salesperson. Here’s what I’ve learned makes the biggest difference:

• Match your business name, address, and phone number exactly everywhere online
• Pick the right business categories (this affects which searches you show up for)
• Add fresh photos weekly customers love seeing what your business looks like
• Make it easy for happy customers to leave you 5 star reviews

For more tips on optimizing your GBP, check out this guide on enhancing your Google Business Profile.

Step 2: Use the Right Local Keywords
Think like your customers. They’re searching things like:

• “[your service] near me”
• “best [your business type] [your city]”
• “[your service] open now”

Discover more about finding the right keywords in this keyword research strategy post.

Step 3: Build Local Trust Signals
Google wants to recommend trusted local businesses. Show them you’re one by:

• Getting listed in quality local directories
• Connecting with other local businesses
• Keeping your business information consistent across the internet

Learn about how to create trust signals in this article on local SEO strategies.

Step 4: Make Your Website Mobile Ready
When someone finds you on Google Maps, they’ll check your website. Make sure it:

• Loads fast (under 3 seconds)
• Shows your contact info clearly
• Works perfectly on phones

If you need help improving your site, read how to optimize for mobile SEO.

Want Better Results? Try These Pro Tips:

1. Put a Google Map on your contact page
2. Add special code (we call it LocalBusiness schema) to help Google understand your business better
3. Keep track of where you rank for important local searches

Common Questions I Get Asked

Q: How long until I see better rankings?
It varies based on your local competition and current online presence. Some of my clients see movement in weeks, others take a few months for bigger changes.

Q: Do I really need reviews?
Yes they’re crucial for Google Maps rankings. But don’t worry, I can show you ethical ways to get more reviews from happy customers.

Q: Can I rank in multiple areas?
You’ll need a separate Google Business Profile for each physical location. But there are strategies for service businesses that cover multiple areas.

Ready to Improve Your Local Rankings?

I offer these services to help boost your local visibility:

• Citation Building Services
• Google Business Profile Servicing
• Local Business Growth System
• Professional Google Business Profile Setup
• Press Release Service

Want to know exactly what’s holding back your local rankings? Book a no obligation strategy session with me. We’ll look at your current setup and create a clear plan to get you more local customers.