📍How to Rank Your Google Business Listing at the Top of the Map Pack

🧭 Why Ranking in the Google Map Pack Matters

Did you know that 46% of all Google searches are for local businesses? More importantly, over 50% of local searchers click on the map pack, not the ads or organic listings. If you're a photographer in NYC or a makeup artist in Atlanta, this is where you need to be.

❓ How Do I Get My Business into the Google Map Pack?

Here’s your step-by-step, no-fluff guide to optimizing your Google Business Profile and ranking in the top 3 spots—whether you're a fashion model, wedding photographer, or freelance designer.

🔍 Q1: What Business Category Should I Choose on Google Business?

• Your primary business category is a top-ranking factor.

• Use the GMB Everywhere Chrome plugin to spy on competitors.

• Look at top-ranked businesses in your niche and match their category.

• Example:

  • Photographer? → Try “Portrait Photographer” or “Wedding Photographer.”

  • Makeup Artist? → Use “Make-up Artist” or “Beauty Salon” based on what’s ranking.

✏️ Q2: Can My Business Name Help Me Rank Better?

Yes. Google looks at keywords in your business name.

• Add your main service and location to the name, if possible.

• Example:

  • Instead of "Glow by Maria", use "Glow by Maria | Atlanta Makeup Artist"

  • Instead of "Vision Studio", go with "Vision Studio NYC Photography"

Just make sure it matches your real-world business name (or register a DBA if needed).

📍 Q3: Does My Business Address Impact My Ranking?

Absolutely. Google favors businesses that are physically located in the searcher's city.

• Try to get an address inside the city limits you're targeting.

• Acceptable solutions:

  • Co-working spaces

  • Virtual offices (staffed during business hours)

  • A residential or studio space you use regularly

Example: A fashion designer in Chicago should list an address in Chicago, not a suburb.

📝 Q4: How Should I Write My Business Description?

Your description helps Google understand who you are, what you do, and where you do it.

• Use keywords naturally (e.g., "bridal makeup in Los Angeles", "portrait photography in Austin")

• Mention your main services and service areas

• Avoid keyword stuffing; keep it human and clear

🧠 Pro Tip: Fill out all sections, including services and products.

📸 Q5: Do Photos and Videos Help My Google Ranking?

Yes, especially when they’re geotagged.

• Upload high-quality, relevant images of your work

• Geotag them using tools like GeoImgr to include your service area's coordinates

• Example:

  • A fashion model in LA can geotag a shoot at Venice Beach

  • A makeup artist can tag photos from real bridal sessions

⭐ Q6: How Important Are Reviews for Google Business?

Reviews are crucial for both trust and ranking.

• Ask for reviews after every service (via text or email)

• Make it easy: send them the direct review link from your GMB profile

• Respond to every review—positive or negative

💬 Example:

“Thank you for choosing Beauty by Renee! If you loved your glam look, I’d really appreciate a quick review 💕 [Google Review Link]”

🌐 Q7: What Should My Website Landing Page Look Like?

Your website should back up your Google listing.

• Link your GMB to a relevant service page, not your homepage

• Include your business name, address, and phone number (NAP)—and keep it consistent everywhere online

• Add:

  • Keywords in your title, H1s, and H2s

  • A Google Map embed

  • Links to related local businesses or news mentions

Example: A fashion designer’s landing page could feature testimonials, an embedded map of their studio, and links to local fashion events they’ve participated in.

🔗 External Resources to Help You Rank

• Google Business Profile Manager

• GeoImgr – Free Geotagging Tool

• GMB Everywhere Chrome Extension

• Moz Local SEO Guide

✅ Final Tips for Ranking Higher on Google Maps

• Stay active: post updates, new photos, and offers weekly

• Build local backlinks (from partnerships, events, blogs)

• Keep your info up-to-date across all platforms (Yelp, Bing, Apple Maps, etc.)

• Link to other local businesses you collaborate with and ask them to return the favor

📢 Share the Love

If you found this helpful, share it with your network of local creatives, entrepreneurs, and business owners. Help them thrive and grow!

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