How to Get Found on Google Maps: The Complete Guide for Local Businesses
When someone searches for “best [service] near me” or “home care agency in Hampshire”, where does your business appear?
If you’re not showing up at the top of Google’s results - in the highly coveted Google Map Pack 3 - you’re probably losing customers to competitors who are.
The good news? With the right Google Maps SEO strategy, you can change that.
In this guide, we’ll explain exactly how the Google Map Pack works, why it matters, and how to use local SEO techniques to get your business found on Google Maps.
What Is the Google Map Pack?
The Google Map Pack - also known as the Local Pack or Local 3-Pack - is the set of three highlighted business listings that appears above organic search results when someone searches for a local service.
Each listing includes:
• Your business name, address, and phone number
• Opening hours and links for directions
• Your Google star rating and reviews
• A click-to-call button on mobile
• A map showing exactly where you’re located
For a customer, this is the fast track to finding the best options nearby. For your business, it’s prime digital real estate
Why Getting Found on Google Maps Matters
Ranking in the Google Map Pack isn’t just about visibility - it’s about winning high-intent searches.
When someone types “SEO agency near me” or “best café in Marlborough”, they’re not researching - they’re ready to buy, book, or enquire.
• 93% of local searches show a Google Map Pack at the top
• Listings in the Map Pack can get up to 126% more website visits
• Users are 3x more likely to click on Map Pack results than standard organic links
If you’re not in the Local 3-Pack, you’re handing potential customers straight to your competitors.
How to Get Found on Google Maps (Step by Step)
Google uses three main factors to decide who ranks in the Map Pack 3: Relevance, Prominence, and Distance. Here’s how to optimise for each.
1. Optimise Your Google Business Profile (GBP)
(Previously known as Google My Business)
Your Google Business Profile is the foundation of Google Maps SEO. Without it, you simply can’t rank.
• Claim and verify your GBP if you haven’t already
• Fill out every field - business name, address, phone number, website, opening hours, and services
• Choose the right categories to match your services
• Add high-quality images of your premises, team, and products
• Post regular updates, offers, and news to keep your profile active
The more complete and accurate your profile, the easier it is for Google to see you as a relevant local result.
2. Target “Near Me” and Location-Based Keywords
When people search locally, they often use phrases like:
• “best care home near me”
• “SEO agency in Wiltshire”
• “home care services Hampshire”
To capture these searches:
• Use location-specific keywords on your website, landing pages, and blog posts
• Include phrases like “near me” naturally where relevant
• Optimise your GBP description with localised keywords
3. Build Trust With Reviews
Google reviews play a huge role in whether you rank in the Local 3-Pack. More importantly, they influence whether people choose you.
• Encourage happy customers to leave reviews
• Respond to every review — positive or negative
• Showcase top reviews on your website and social media
The better your review profile, the more credible and prominent you’ll appear to both Google and potential customers.
4. Improve Your Local SEO Signals
Beyond your GBP, local SEO plays a big role in getting found on Google Maps:
• Keep your NAP details (Name, Address, Phone) consistent across all directories and platforms
• Build citations on trusted local sites
• Earn backlinks from local businesses, partners, and news outlets
• Create blog content that targets local search intent
This helps Google connect the dots and view your business as authoritative within your area.
5. Monitor, Optimise, and Refine
Ranking in the Google Map Pack isn’t a one-time job.
• Track your keyword performance
• Keep your GBP and website content fresh
• Regularly add photos, offers, and updates to stay relevant
• Analyse what competitors in the Local 3-Pack are doing - and do it better
With the right Google Maps SEO strategy, you can build momentum and stay ahead.
Why Work With Spark Connect
Getting into the Google Map Pack 3 takes more than guesswork —- it takes a strategic, data-driven approach.
At Spark Connect, we help businesses:
• Optimise their Google Business Profile for maximum visibility
• Build a robust local SEO strategy that targets “near me” searches
• Collect and showcase reviews to boost credibility and clicks
• Drive more enquiries, more calls, and more customers
We don’t just get you seen - we help you get found.
Get Your Business Found on Google Today
Your customers are already searching for what you offer. The question is, will they find you or your competitors?
With Spark Connect, you can:
• Rank higher in the Google Map Pack 3
• Drive more traffic, calls, and footfall
• Build trust and authority in your local market
Don’t leave your visibility to chance. Let us put you on the map - literally.
📞 Ready to get started?
Visit spark-connect.co.uk today and let’s talk about how we can help your business dominate Google Maps.
