Why Ranking High in the Google Maps Pack is Crucial for Your Business

Written By Lauryn Billows

If you're a local business owner, you’ve probably heard of the Google Maps Pack. If not, it’s time to pay attention—especially if you want to boost your visibility and attract more customers. In this post, I’ll break down what the Google Maps Pack is, why it matters, and how ranking higher in it can transform your business.

What is the Google Maps Pack?

The Google Maps Pack, also known as the “Local 3-Pack,” is a feature on Google search results that shows a list of three local businesses related to the search query. This section appears at the top of the search results, just beneath the paid ads and above the organic listings.

For example, if someone searches for "wedding venues near me," they might see a map displaying three top wedding venues in their area, along with a brief snippet of business information like:

- The business name

- Address

- Phone number

- Reviews/ratings

- A link to the business website

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For example, I searched “wedding venues West Palm Beach” and this is what Google Local Guides showed me.

The Google Maps Pack is incredibly important because it provides immediate exposure to potential customers who are actively searching for products or services in your area. But with limited space—only three businesses are displayed—it’s essential that your business appears in those top results.

Why Ranking in the Google Maps Pack is Crucial for Your Business

1. Increased Visibility

When potential customers search for businesses in your area, they are most likely to click on the first results that appear. Google Maps has become a key tool for local searchers, and the businesses that appear in the Maps Pack get the most attention. If you're not ranking high enough, your business may be overlooked in favor of your competitors.

2. Higher Click-Through Rates

Studies show that local search results with a prominent Google Maps listing drive more clicks and interactions. Being in the top three spots means more users will click on your listing to learn more about your business. This means more visits to your website, phone calls, and inquiries—ultimately leading to more customers and more revenue.

3. Trust and Credibility

Google’s Maps Pack is built on relevance, reviews, and location. If your business shows up in the top results, it sends a message to potential customers that you’re reputable, trusted, and a go-to choice in your industry. Positive reviews and a complete Google My Business profile also add to your credibility and can influence customers’ decisions.

4. Local SEO and Ranking Benefits

Ranking in the Maps Pack is a sign that your local SEO efforts are paying off. Google considers several factors when ranking businesses in the Maps Pack, including:

  • - Google My Business Optimization**: Keeping your profile updated with accurate business information (address, hours, website, etc.) is essential.

  • - Online Reviews: Reviews play a big role in how your business ranks. The more positive reviews you have, the better.

  • - Local Citations: Consistent mentions of your business across various online platforms (like Yelp, Facebook, etc.) help Google verify your business’s legitimacy and improve your ranking.

  • - Relevance to Search Queries: Using relevant keywords in your business description and Google My Business listing helps Google understand what your business offers and match it to the right search queries.

The higher you rank in the Google Maps Pack, the more likely you are to attract local customers who are ready to buy or book services.

5. Competitive Advantage

Local search results are often the first place potential customers turn when looking for wedding venues, restaurants, service providers, and other local businesses. If your competitors are ranking higher than you, you’re losing out on valuable exposure. On the other hand, ranking higher can give you an edge, helping you stand out in a crowded marketplace.

How to Rank Higher in the Google Maps Pack

If you want to show up in the Google Maps Pack, here are some tips to help improve your ranking:

1. Claim and Optimize Your Google My Business Listing

Ensure that your Google My Business (GMB) profile is fully claimed, accurate, and optimized with relevant keywords, categories, photos, and up-to-date information. A complete and well-maintained profile helps Google recognize your business and boosts your chances of ranking higher.

2. Encourage Customer Reviews

Positive reviews are a significant ranking factor in the Maps Pack. Ask satisfied customers to leave reviews on your GMB listing, and respond to all reviews (both positive and negative) to show that you value feedback and customer service.

3. Optimize for Local Keywords

Incorporate location-specific keywords (such as “wedding venues in [City]”) into your website and GMB listing. This will make it easier for Google to understand what services you offer and the area you serve.

4. Build Local Citations

Ensure that your business is listed consistently across other online directories and review platforms. These citations help Google verify the authenticity of your business and improve your local search ranking.

5. Engage with the Local Community

Get involved in your local community through events, sponsorships, or partnerships. Building local backlinks and connections helps boost your authority and relevance for local searches.

6. Use High-Quality Photos

Google loves businesses with great visuals. Upload high-quality photos of your venue, services, products, or team to your GMB profile. Listings with photos get more engagement, which can help improve your ranking.

Conclusion

The Google Maps Pack is one of the most valuable spots to be in when it comes to attracting local customers. By ranking in the top three, you can drive more traffic to your business, gain more leads, and ultimately increase your sales and bookings.

To get there, focus on optimizing your Google My Business profile, gathering positive reviews, and implementing a strong local SEO strategy. The more visible you are, the more likely you are to attract the right customers—and that can make all the difference for your business.

If you’re ready to take your local SEO to the next level and boost your visibility on Google Maps, we can help. Contact me today to learn more about how we can help your business rank higher and get the exposure it deserves!

Lauryn Billows