How to Use Google Maps to Get to the Top of Search Results
In search results, there are special blocks such as: advertisements, images and videos, maps. For specific keyword queries, they will take up a significant portion of the first page, and your site may even not appear on it at all.
If, for example, you enter the query “stomatological clinic,” you will see a map showing the nearest clinics after the search. Sometimes, for users, this is actually more convenient and faster than looking at the results of organic search.
How to find key queries for which a map will be shown in search results
If you want your site to be displayed in search results with maps, the first thing to check is whether your keywords fall into the relevant query categories that are shown in the special elements. This can be done using services like Ahrefs, Serpstat, and several others. For instance, in the Serpstat service, you can do this by following these steps:
- Enter your keyword;
- Navigate to “Keyword Analysis ”;
- Click on “SEO Analysis ”;
- Proceed to “Phrase Selection”;
- Open “Filters ”;
- Select “Local pack” in the “Available elements in search results” block.
After this, the service will provide you with a list of key phrases that will display a map in the search results. Under such queries, you can optimize the internal pages of your site.
How to improve your site’s visibility in the maps block
To occupy top positions in the Google maps block, you can use Google My Business. Place information about your company in this service, which will also give you the opportunity to appear in Google Search, Google Maps, making it easier for clients to find you on any devices.
It is also important to note that the following factors influence search results:
- Relevance: how closely does your site match the query;
- The distance between your company and the user’s location from which the search is conducted;
- Familiarity: the traffic your site receives;
- Search history: the usefulness of all the previously mentioned factors.
Tips for improving your site’s visibility:
- Registration in “Google My Business” and verification of the company address;
- Configuring your page, adding one or several categories that fit your business;
- Improving reviews about your company. It’s worth asking your clients to leave feedback on your services, as most users are oriented on ratings from people like them.
Also, do not forget about activity. Try to regularly publish posts, images, and other information. Users tend to avoid “dead” pages; in such cases, they will certainly not buy from you.
In conclusion
Displaying maps is often more useful and convenient for users as it allows them to quickly find the information they need. If you can’t manage to promote your site to the top of search results, use these tips:
- Check the keyword queries and see if they fall into the keyword category showing the special elements;
- Set up the account in Google My Business.
If you follow all the tips and take into account all the nuances, the positions of your site will certainly improve. Thus, these straightforward actions will help you attract more traffic and clients.