Ranking high on Google Maps and local search results is a game-changer for local businesses, especially restaurants, salons, clinics, and service providers. Showing up in the top 3 (aka the Google Map Pack) means more calls, visits, and trust—without spending on ads.

Whether you're asking how to rank #1 on Google search or how to improve your Google Maps ranking, this guide has you covered.

Why Google Maps Ranking Matters

When people search for “[service] near me”, Google shows a map with a few top-rated local businesses. Being in that Map Pack boosts:

• Phone calls and walk-ins
  
  

• Website clicks
  
  

• Trust and reviews
  
  

Unlike traditional SEO, Google Maps ranking is based on location + optimization, not just keywords.

How to Rank Higher on Google Maps & Local Listings

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

 1. Claim & Verify Your Google Business Profile

Go to Google Business and claim your business. Make sure you:

• Use the exact business name (no extra keywords)
  
  

• Add your address, phone, website, and hours
  

• Choose the right business category (e.g., “Hair Salon”, “BBQ Restaurant”)
  
  

Verification is essential—usually by postcard.

2. Fill Out Every Section

Google favors complete listings. Add:

• A keyword-rich business description
  

• Photos of your storefront, team, products/services
  
  

• Services/Menu (especially for restaurants or clinics)
  
  

• Attributes (e.g., women-led, outdoor seating, free Wi-Fi)
  
  
  

 3. Collect and Respond to Reviews

Positive reviews influence both ranking and click-through rates.

Ask happy customers to rate your business on Google Maps. You can say:

“Would you mind rating us on Google? It helps other people discover us!”

🗣 Respond to every review—positive or negative. Google rewards engagement.

 4. Use Local Keywords in Descriptions and Posts

Include geo-targeted keywords in:

• Your business description (e.g., “Mexican restaurant in downtown Dallas”)
  
  

• Google Posts (updates, offers, events)
  
  

Example:

“Try our lunch special—available weekdays in Midtown Manhattan!”

5. Keep Your Info Accurate Across the Web

Google cross-checks your business info across platforms like:

• Yelp
  
  
  

• TripAdvisor
  
  
  

• Facebook
  
  
  

• Local directories
  
  
  

Make sure your Name, Address, Phone (NAP) are identical everywhere.

 6. Build Local Citations and Backlinks

Submit your business to local listings, city blogs, chambers of commerce, and review sites. A few strong local backlinks can boost your authority.

7. Add Schema Markup to Your Website

Schema helps search engines understand your content. Use:

• LocalBusiness or Restaurant schema
  
  
  

• Review schema
  
  
  

• OpeningHours schema
  
  
  

If you don’t know how to code it, ask your web developer or digital agency to help.

📖 Learn more about technical SEO in our post on SEO tips for small businesses.

How to Rate a Business or Hotel on Google Maps

To support your favorite local spot or hotel:

1. Open Google Maps
   
   
   

2. Search for the business
   
   
   

3. Click “Write a Review”
   
   

4. Give your star rating, type your feedback, and add a photo (optional)
   
   
   

5. Hit Post
   
   

Every review helps that business rank higher—especially when it's detailed and includes keywords.

Bonus Tips to Rank #1 on Google Search Locally

To go beyond the map pack:

• Optimize your website for local keywords
  
  
  

• Embed a Google Map on your contact page
  
  
  

• Create location-based content (e.g., “Best breakfast spots in Austin”)
  
  
  

• Build internal links from other pages of your website
  
  
  

Explore how to create a website for your business if you're just starting out.

Summary Checklist

Ranking on Google Maps and local listings is one of the most effective (and affordable) ways to drive customers to your door. It’s not just about being found—it’s about being chosen.

Need help optimizing your Google Business Profile or website for local SEO? Contact FinesseInk or explore our pricing plans for local SEO services tailored to your business.

Check out our full post on restaurant SEO and local ranking tips