Is your shop or business poorly ranked on Google Maps? Here’s how to fix it, without being an expert.
First and foremost, you need to improve your Google Business Profile, which is the cornerstone of your local visibility or local SEO.
1. The Basics: A 100% Complete Google Profile
An incomplete Google Business Profile is one that Google tends to ignore. To the search engine, a well-filled profile is a first sign of seriousness and trustworthiness.
Review these points:
- Basic info: Name, address, and phone number.
- Primary category: Be as specific as possible (e.g., "Italian Restaurant" instead of just "Restaurant").
- Secondary categories: Add everything relevant (e.g., "Pizzeria," "Meal delivery") to be visible in more diverse searches.
- All the info: Hours (especially for public holidays!), services, description, attributes (patio, Wi-Fi, etc.).
A complete profile is the first step to being taken seriously by Google.
2. Reviews: The Cornerstone to Your Visibility
Reviews are the most important factor for your local ranking. It's social proof: if many people recommend you, Google will recommend you too.
- Ask for reviews from satisfied customers. A happy customer is your best salesperson.
- Reply to 100% of the reviews you receive. This is crucial, as it's important to Google.
- Positive ones: Thank the customer.
- Negative ones: Reply calmly. You show others that you are a professional who listens.
More positive and recent reviews = more trust = better ranking.
3. Regular Content: Show Your Business is Active
An inactive profile is a dead profile in Google's eyes. You need to show it that your business is alive and dynamic.
- Regularly add high-quality photos: your shop, your services, your team. Visuals attract customers.
- Use Google Posts like free mini-ads for your promos, new products, or events.
Google loves profiles that are updated regularly.
4. Keywords: Place Them in the Right Spot
NEVER add keywords to your business name. More and more businesses are doing it, but it's forbidden by Google. Your profile risks suspension.
Instead, use:
- Your business description.
- Your replies to reviews (e.g., "Thanks for enjoying our lunch special!").
- Your Google Posts (e.g., "Check out our new organic sourdough bread.").
It's the smart and safe way to tell Google about the services you offer.
5. The Key to Success in 2025: Consistency
The secret isn't doing everything perfectly just once. The secret is consistency.
A new photo, replying to reviews every day, a post from time to time... These small actions prove to Google that you are a reliable and active business.
You want more recommendations?
➡️ Get a free audit of your Google Business Profile and receive personalized advice to improve it and attract more customers.