How To Rank Your Business for GMB Locally

How to Rank and Optimise Your Google My Business (GMB) for Local SEO

For local businesses, appearing at the top of Google search results is essential to attract new customers. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is by optimising your Google My Business (GMB) listing. GMB is a free tool from Google that allows businesses to manage their online presence across Search and Maps.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the best practices for optimising your GMB listing to improve visibility, attract local customers, and rank higher on Google’s SERP.

Why GMB Matters for Local SEO

Google My Business is not just a simple directory listing; it’s a powerful tool that, when optimised correctly, can bring in significant organic traffic. Having an up-to-date and complete GMB profile helps your business:

• Appear in the Local Pack (the top three map results on Google).
• Improve trust and credibility with customer reviews.
• Boost local search rankings for location-based keywords.
• Drive more foot traffic and website visits.

Businesses that implement a structured local SEO strategy—such as optimised GMB profiles and geo-targeted landing pages—can dominate search results. A great example of this is Asphalt Mates, which effectively uses location-based pages and an optimised GMB listing to rank highly for multiple service areas.

Step 1: Claim and Verify Your GMB Listing

If your business has been around for a while, Google may have already created a basic listing for it. To claim and verify your GMB listing, follow these steps:

1. Log in to your Google account.
2. Go to Google My Business and click “Manage Now.”
3. Enter your business name and address.
4. Select the correct business category.
5. Provide your phone number and website.
6. Verify your listing via phone or mail.

Once verified, you’ll have full control over your listing and can begin optimising it.

Step 2: Complete Your GMB Profile

Google prioritises complete and detailed listings. Ensure your GMB profile includes:

• Accurate Business Information: Your business name, address, and phone number (NAP).
• Business Category: Choose the category that best describes your business.
• Operating Hours: Keep your hours updated, including holiday schedules.
• Website URL: Link to your official website for more information.
• Business Description: Write a compelling and keyword-rich description.
• Photos and Videos: Upload high-quality images and videos showcasing your products or services.
• Customer Reviews: Encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews.

Providing complete and accurate information improves your visibility and ensures potential customers get the details they need.

Step 3: Optimise Your GMB Listing for Local SEO

Once your GMB profile is complete, the next step is to optimise it for search rankings. Here’s how:

• Use Location-Specific Keywords: Include city or suburb names in your business description, services, and posts.
• Upload High-Quality Photos: Businesses with images receive 42% more requests for directions and 35% more clicks.
• Encourage Customer Reviews: The more positive reviews you have, the higher you’ll rank.
• Respond to Reviews Promptly: Engaging with reviews shows Google that you’re an active business.
• Leverage Google Posts: Share promotions, updates, and events to keep your listing fresh.
• Utilise Google Q&A: Answer common customer questions directly on your profile.

By implementing these strategies, you can improve your rankings and attract more customers searching for your services.

Step 4: Monitor and Update Your GMB Listing Regularly

Maintaining an active and updated GMB listing is essential for staying relevant in search results. Here are some ongoing tasks to keep your listing optimised:

• Monitor GMB Insights: Track how customers are finding and interacting with your business.
• Update Business Information: Make sure your hours, contact details, and services are always up to date.
• Respond to Reviews: Address customer feedback in a professional and timely manner.
• Post Regular Updates: Use Google Posts to share offers, news, and events.
• Add Fresh Photos and Videos: Keep your visual content up to date to attract more engagement.

Regular updates signal to Google that your business is active, improving your chances of ranking higher.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take for a GMB listing to be verified?

Verification can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. You can speed up the process by ensuring your business details are accurate and match those on other platforms.

How do I choose the right category for my GMB listing?

Pick a category that closely represents your primary business services. Avoid using broad or unrelated categories.

How can I encourage customers to leave reviews?

Ask customers for reviews in person, through email follow-ups, or by sharing a direct link to your GMB review page.

Can I edit my GMB listing after verification?

Yes, you can edit your business details anytime through your Google My Business dashboard.

How do I track my GMB listing’s performance?

Use the Google My Business Insights tool to monitor views, clicks, and customer interactions.

Final Thoughts

Optimising your Google My Business listing is one of the most effective ways to enhance your local SEO and attract customers. By following the steps outlined above, you can improve your rankings, increase visibility, and drive more traffic to your business.

Remember, GMB optimisation is an ongoing process. Keep your profile updated, engage with customers, and leverage all available features to stay ahead of the competition.