For a local service business, appearing on Google Maps (via your Google Business Profile) can be just as important as your website. When someone nearby searches for a service you offer – say “AC repair near me” – Google often shows a map with a few local businesses listed at the very top of the results. This is known as the Local Pack or Map Pack, and it typically features the top three Google Maps results for that query. Being in this top 3 on Google Maps can lead to a surge in calls and customers, because people often choose from those convenient options without scrolling further. So, how can you maximize your Google Maps ranking? Let’s break down the key steps.

Claim and Complete Your Google Business Profile

First things first: you need to have control of your Google Business Profile (formerly called Google My Business). If you haven’t claimed it, search for your business name on Google Maps and see if a listing appears. If it does, there will be an option to claim it. If it doesn’t, you can create one for free. Claiming your profile allows you to manage the information displayed.

Once you have access, fill out every section you can:

  • Business name (should reflect your official business name)
  • Category (choose the best category, e.g., “Plumber”, “Roofing Contractor”, etc. – you can add secondary categories too)
  • Address (or service area if you don’t show your address)
  • Phone number (preferably a local number)
  • Hours of operation
  • Website URL
  • Description (use this space to mention your services and service areas in a friendly, informative way)
  • Attributes (such as “Locally owned”, “24/7 service” if applicable)
  • Photos (add photos of your team, your logo, your work, and even your office or vehicle; businesses with more photos often engage users more)

A complete profile is not only more appealing to potential customers but also favored by Google’s algorithm​. Google wants to show searchers detailed and reliable information, so give it as much info as you can.

Encourage and Manage Customer Reviews

Reviews are a major factor in Google Maps rankings and click-throughs. Think about when you see a list of businesses in Maps – you’re naturally drawn to the ones with high star ratings and a decent number of reviews. Google’s algorithm also takes into account the quality and quantity of reviews in determining rank.

Encourage your satisfied customers to leave a Google review. You might do this by sending a follow-up text or email with a direct link to your Google review page after a job is completed. Respond to reviews too – thank people for positive feedback and professionally address any negatives. Responses show you are active and care about customer service. Plus, a business that regularly gets new reviews signals to Google that it’s active and popular, which can help with rankings.

Maintain NAP Consistency and Citations

Earlier we discussed local directories and citations. The information on your Google Business Profile (Name, Address, Phone) should match exactly what’s on your website and other directories. If Google finds conflicting information, it might not rank you as confidently. Consistent NAP across the web reinforces your business’s legitimacy. Also, having your business listed on other sites (Yelp, etc.) that we talked about provides more backlinks and mentions, which can indirectly boost your prominence in Google’s eyes, helping your Maps ranking.

Optimize for Relevance and Keywords

Google Maps uses keywords too. While you shouldn’t “stuff” keywords unnaturally, make sure your business description and even your review responses include words related to your business and location. For example, if you are an HVAC contractor, mentioning services like “furnace repair” or “air conditioning installation in [City]” in your Google Business description or in answers to the Q&A section can help Google connect your profile to those search queries. Some businesses even find it useful to post updates (Google Posts) about offers or tips, which can include keywords and make your profile more dynamic.

Leverage Photos and Updates

Regularly adding photos can improve engagement. People looking at your listing might click through your photos – Google tracks that engagement. A listing with many recent photos may also indicate an active business. Additionally, use the Posts feature to share announcements (“Spring AC Tune-Up Special” or “We’re now offering tankless water heater installations!”). These posts show up on your profile and keep it fresh.

Proximity and Patience

One thing to understand: proximity (how close the searcher is to your location) is a factor you can’t control. A business farther away usually won’t outrank one that’s closer to the user for “near me” searches, even with great SEO. That said, by following the above steps – ensuring your profile is thorough (relevance) and your business is well-regarded online (prominence) – you maximize your chances of showing up for as many local searches as possible within your service area.

Finally, be patient and consistent. Google Maps rankings can fluctuate. Keep maintaining your profile: update it if you change services or hours, continue gathering reviews, and check back periodically to answer any user questions that might pop up on your listing. Over time, a well-optimized Google Business Profile combined with a strong website and other local SEO efforts will improve your visibility in your community.

Being prominent on Google Maps means when locals search for the services you offer, you’re the one they see first, which often translates into a call or inquiry. For any home service business, that’s exactly where you want to be – right at the top of the map, guiding new customers straight to your door.