Want to rank higher on Google Maps? Then you need to optimize your Google Map citations! These are mentions of your business across the web, and they help Google trust your business.
But how do you do it effectively? Let’s dive in!
1. Keep Your Business Information Consistent
Every mention of your business should have the same:
- Name
- Address
- Phone Number (also called NAP)
If Google finds different versions of your info, it can hurt your ranking. Double-check your NAP everywhere!
2. Claim Your Google Business Profile
If you haven’t claimed your Google Business Profile (GBP) yet, do it now. This is the foundation of your Google Maps presence!
Go to Google Business, find your business, and claim it. Once verified, you can update your info, add photos, and respond to reviews.
3. Get Listed on Trusted Directories
Your citations don’t just come from Google. You need listings on trusted business directories too!
Some top directories include:
Make sure your NAP is exactly the same on all of them!
4. Use Local Keywords in Your Business Description
Google loves local keywords. Add relevant location-based terms in your business description.
For example, instead of just saying “Best pizza place,” say “Best pizza place in downtown Chicago.”
Think like your customers. What would they type into Google to find you?
5. Encourage Customer Reviews
Reviews matter—a lot! Google favors businesses with more positive reviews.
How do you get more reviews?
- Ask happy customers to leave a review.
- Include a link to your Google review page in emails.
- Offer amazing service so people want to rave about you!
And don’t forget to respond to reviews—both good and bad ones.
6. Add Photos and Videos
Images help your business stand out on Google Maps. Upload high-quality photos of:
- Your storefront
- Your products or services
- Your team
- Happy customers (with their permission!)
Videos work too! A short clip showing your business in action can make a big impact.
7. Use Location-Specific Schema Markup
If you have a website, use schema markup to help Google understand your business info better.
Add LocalBusiness schema to your site. This tells Google your address, phone number, and business hours in a structured way.
Not a coding expert? No problem! Use Google’s Schema Markup Generator to make it easy.
8. Get Mentions on Local Blogs and News Sites
If local websites mention your business, it boosts your credibility.
Reach out to:
- Local bloggers
- Community sites
- Neighborhood newspapers
Offer to write a guest post about a topic in your industry. Or, ask them to feature your business in a “best of” list.
9. Keep Your Info Updated
Did you move locations? Change phone numbers? Update your hours?
Make sure you update your business info everywhere online. Outdated citations can confuse customers and hurt your Google ranking.
10. Monitor Your Citations with a Citation Tracker
Don’t have time to check all your listings manually? Use a tool!
Some great citation tracking tools include:
These will help you find incorrect or missing citations so you can fix them fast.
Final Thoughts
Optimizing your Google Map citations can put your business on the map—literally!
Keep your info consistent, encourage reviews, and list your business in the right places.
Follow these steps, and soon you’ll see more customers finding you on Google Maps. Happy optimizing!
