How do I get my business on Google Maps?
To get on Google Maps, you need to claim your Google Business Profile, verify your address, and completely fill out your services. To actually rank at the top, you need consistent reviews and local SEO.
Just existing on Google isn't enough anymore. When someone searches for your service, Google only shows three businesses in the "Map Pack." If you aren't one of those three, most searchers will never see you.
The three signals Google ranks on
Google decides who gets the top 3 map spots based on three signals.
1. Proximity (Are you close by?)
The Problem: Google wants to show businesses that are physically close to the person searching. If your address isn't verified or is listed incorrectly, Google won't trust where you are.
What to do: Claim your Google Business Profile. Google will ask you to verify that you actually operate there (by postcard, phone, email or video, depending on your business). If you don't have a storefront, you can still verify as a "Service Area Business."
2. Relevance (Do you do what they need?)
The Problem: You might be a great "General Contractor," but if someone searches for "Kitchen Remodel," Google might not know you do that because you didn't list it.
What to do: Fill out every single section of your profile. Add all your services, write a detailed description, and make sure your website mentions those exact same services so Google can connect the dots.
3. Prominence (Are you the best choice?)
The Problem: If three plumbers are the same distance away and offer the same services, Google looks at who is the most popular and trusted. That means reviews.
What to do: You need more 5-star reviews than the guy down the street. You also need your business name, address, and phone number listed exactly the same way on Yelp, Facebook, and the BBB.
How to know if your profile is broken
Take out your phone right now and search for your main service (like "landscaper near me"). Don't search for your business name.
- Are you in the top 3 map results?
- Do you have more reviews than the other businesses listed?
- Does your listing have recent photos of your work?
If you answered no, your profile isn't working for you.
What this costs and how long it takes
Claiming your profile is free. You can do it yourself right now at google.com/business.
However, if you want an agency to optimize the profile, build the local SEO signals required to push it into the top 3, and set up an automated review system, it typically costs between $800 and $2,500 per month. It usually takes 3 to 6 months to break into the top 3 for competitive searches.
Casper B2B is a local team on the North Shore that manages Google Business Profiles and local SEO for business owners. Book a 15-minute call.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I don't have a physical office?
That's fine. Google allows you to register as a "Service Area Business." You hide your home address and instead tell Google the towns or counties you travel to for work. You can still rank in the Map Pack.
Why did my business disappear from Google Maps?
Google frequently suspends profiles if they suspect spam, if you changed your address, or if a competitor reported you. Getting unsuspended requires submitting proof of business (like a utility bill or tax document) directly to Google support.
Do I need a website to be on Google Maps?
Technically no, but practically yes. A profile without a website looks unprofessional to customers, and Google uses the words on your website to figure out what you do. Without a website, it is very hard to rank in the top 3.
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