Being "visible on Google" means showing up in several strategic places where your customers are looking for and can find you.
There are 2 types of visibility to know, which correspond to 2 of Google's tools:
1. Proximity Visibility: Being Found on Google Maps
Imagine a customer walking in your neighborhood and searching for "pizzeria" on their phone in Google Maps. This is proximity visibility, your digital catchment area.
Google Maps only displays Google Business Profiles.
Each time a potential customer performs a local search, Google Maps looks at their location and suggests the most relevant business profiles around them.
Distance is crucial. You will appear more easily for a customer 200 meters from your location than for one 2 kilometers away.
Profiles are either highlighted directly on the map at their location or displayed in a list of businesses.
Learn how to improve your ranking on Google Maps in our dedicated blog post.
2. Awareness Visibility: Appearing in Google Search Results
Now, imagine a customer at home, planning a project and typing a broader search like "painter in London". They aren't necessarily looking for someone "near them," but for the best professional in their city.
This is where the classic Google search page comes in. On Google, there are two places where your business can appear.
A. The VIP Map at the Top of the Page
Just below the search bar, Google often displays a map with several business profiles. This is called the "Local Pack."
It's the #1 spot because it captures the majority of clicks, even before the other results.
To be featured here, your Business Profile must be perfectly optimized, with regular reviews and frequently added content (photos, posts). A high-quality website also helps you get selected by Google.
B. The Classic Results: The Blue Website Links
Below that, you'll find the list of blue links to websites.
Your website is important because it gives you more opportunities to appear in these results by optimizing it for your customers' potential searches, like "emergency sink repair in Manchester."
Customers click on these links to learn more, discover your services in detail, see your work, and be fully convinced.
Maps + Google.com: The Winning Duo
These two types of visibility don't compete; they complement each other!
Google Maps reaches customers who are in action, with an immediate, local need. Google Search reaches customers in their planning phase and builds your long-term reputation.
A well-managed Business Profile helps you climb into the VIP map, the Local Pack. A good website reinforces the trust Google has in your profile.
Want to Know Where You Stand on Both Fronts?
➡️ Get your business visibility report with Begonia.pro. We analyze your presence on Google Maps and Google.com to give you a clear overview and simple tips for improvement.