In today's digital age, having a Google Business Profile (GBP) is crucial to attracting more local customers. About 20-30% of customers tend to choose a business from the map pack (also known as the local 3-pack) when searching for products or services online. So, if your competitors are ranking higher than you in the map pack, then you are definitely losing out on potential customers. Your local Chico SEO experts at Peterson SEO have compiled five expert tips to help you enhance your GBP's visibility and rank it in the top 3 for all your relevant keywords in your service areas.

Tip #1 Optimize Your GBP Information:

A complete profile with detailed information about your business can be one of the primary factors of Google rankings. Make sure to claim your GBP, and fill out all the necessary information, including your business name, phone number, website URL, and hours of operation. The business information you provide in your GBP must match the information on your website, socials, and all of your citations across the web. You will need to add a detailed keyword rich optimized description of your business along with photos, videos, and virtual tours to enhance your profile visibility.

You will need more photos than your competitors. But not just any photos will do. Make sure to add quality photos that represent your business. When adding photos to your GBP, you will also want to optimize your photos by properly naming your photos with a relevant local keyword, your business name, and your address. In addition, for better results, you should consider further optimizing your photos by geotagging each photo to relevant locations in your service area.

Tip #2 Incorporate Relevant Keywords:

Implementing relevant keywords on your GBPs can positively impact your visibility and is essential for ranking in the map pack for those relevant search terms. You can add your service area and the relevant keywords to your business description and listing. Make sure to use your keywords in a way that looks natural and doesn't hurt your profile's authenticity.

Make sure to use your relevant local buyer intent keywords when completing the Q&A section of your profile, when adding photos and videos, as well as when you are posting updates to your profile. The regular and organic use of your keywords on your GBP will help in providing authority to your profile and help in ranking and placing you in front of your customers.

Tip #3 Keep Your Citations Consistent:

Citations are online mentions or listings of your business's name, address, and phone number (NAP). Keeping consistent NAP citations makes it easier for Google to verify and rank your business in the map pack. You can get citations from various online directories, review platforms, and social media pages. Make sure your information is accurately listed and consistent across all platforms.

You will also need more citations than your competitors. But keep in mind not all citations are created equal, so while you do need more citations, you will need equal quality and better citations. Choosing citations that are most relevant to your services or niche will help build your authority and improve the ranking of your GBP and your website.

Tip #4 Encourage Positive Reviews:

Google reviews carry a lot of weight when it comes to ranking in the map pack. Encourage customers to leave a 5 star review by providing great customer service and asking them to share their experience. You should always respond to customer reviews, both positive and negative, and take action to resolve negative reviews.

There are several ways you can request more reviews from your customers by sharing the link in your GBP profile. You can create QR codes that can be easily scanned and get reviews on the go. You can send follow-up emails to purchases and sales requesting feedback and providing a link to get more reviews. Get creative and choose a system that works best for you.

Tip #5 Keep Your GBP Up-To-Date:

It's essential to keep your GBP updated to maintain ranking in the map pack. Respond to customer inquiries, update information on the platform, add new photos or videos, and post regular business updates. Make sure to keep tabs on your reviews and take appropriate action to address any negative reviews.

Improving your GBP's visibility can help attract more local customers and increase your revenue potential. By implementing the above tips, businesses can provide Google with an accurate and complete representation of their brand for potential customers. Get started today and take the first step in boosting your search engine rankings! If you would like assistance with your SEO and GBP rankings our SEO California experts at Peterson SEO are available for your support.