What is Google's Local 3 Pack?
Let me explain the concept of Google’s Local 3 Pack feature and why it’s so crucial for local businesses aiming to thrive through online search.
Google’s search results page prominently displays three local businesses that Google determines are the most relevant to what a user is searching for. Essentially, it’s a list of the top three local companies that Google believes best match the search query.
When conducting a search on Google for a local establishment or service, you may notice three businesses prominently listed at the very top of the search results, together with their contact details and a map indicating their location. That is the Google Local 3 Pack.
For instance, if searching for “Local SEO Services“, you might find a Local 3 Pack listing three local SEO services agencies, along with their phone number, address, and a map showing where they are. This is an invaluable marketing opportunity for local businesses, as being featured in the Local 3 Pack can greatly boost their visibility and drive more traffic to their website or physical address.
Why Is It Important For Businesses To Rank In The Local 3 Pack?
Being featured in Google’s top three local search results (known as the Local 3 Pack) provides businesses with valuable exposure and improved positioning on Google Maps. When people search for local businesses, they typically click one of the first few search results shown. In fact, only 0.6% of searchers visit the second page of results.
So securing a spot in the Local 3 Pack gives a business prime real estate at the very top of the results page. This means local searchers are far more likely to discover and select businesses listed in the Local 3 Pack.
Inclusion in the Local 3 Pack also lends credibility and trustworthiness to businesses. When searchers see a business prominently displayed, they can reasonably assume Google has validated the business as a good fit for the search term. Furthermore, seeing ratings and reviews in the Local 3 Pack assists searchers in making informed decisions about where to spend money.
In summary, the Local 3 Pack presents opportunities for increased visibility, customer acquisition, and establishing credibility and trust with potential patrons. It’s a valuable placement for local businesses to strive for in Google’s search results.
How To Get In The Google's Local 3 Pack?
To boost your visibility in Google’s Local 3 Pack search results, focus on optimizing your online presence across various platforms. Start by registering your Google My Business profile and verifying your listing. Populate your GMB profile with precise details like your business name, physical address, contact number, operating hours, website URL, and photos. Encourage customer reviews too.
Beyond GMB, build your presence on social media, directories, and other relevant sites. Aim for consistency in your business information and branding across all platforms. The more comprehensive and cohesive your online footprint, the more likely Google will feature your business in the coveted Local 3 Pack. Leverage every opportunity to get found locally online.
Positive feedback from customers can greatly improve your business’s online presence and reputation. It’s a good idea to request satisfied customers to post reviews on your Google My Business page. Customer testimonials act as social proof and help you rank higher in local search results.
The keywords and phrases on your website and profiles play a role in matching your business to relevant local searches. For example, if you provide search engine optimization services, include “Local SEO Services” in your profile descriptions and list of services. Using relevant keywords helps search engines understand what your business offers.
How To Rank In Top 3 Of Google Maps?
The time it takes for a business to appear in the top three local search results on Google, known as the Local 3 Pack, can vary significantly. How competitive the industry is, how accurate the business’s name, address, and phone number are, and many other elements can impact whether or not a company will rank in the Local 3 Pack.
In some situations, businesses may find their listing popping up in the Local 3 Pack within just a few days of setting up or optimizing their Google My Business profile. However, it is more typical for it to take several weeks or even months before a business is listed in the Local 3 Pack. While there is no guaranteed time period for appearing in the Local 3 Pack, focusing on optimizing a Google My Business profile, building a strong web presence, and encouraging positive customer reviews can all help increase the chances of being shown in local search results.
How Can You Secure Your Position In Google's Local 3 Pack?
In a competitive market, others can take your spot in the Google local 3 pack.
Congratulations on getting listed in the local 3 pack, now you have to worry about keeping your spot.
Now that your business has secured a position in the top three local search results on Google, it’s crucial to maintain that ranking so you can keep attracting nearby customers and stand out against rival companies. There are a few effective strategies you can implement to help ensure your business remains in this prime search result real estate.
Most importantly, you should regularly verify that your business’s information is correct and up to date. Another way to defend your spot in the top three is to respond to all your reviews, both positive and negative.
Once your company makes it into the highest ranks of Google’s local search results, the work isn’t over. You must actively work to keep your place there among tough competition. By frequently double-checking that your business details are accurate and engaging with your customer reviews, you’ll be in the best position to remain a featured search result and keep attracting local shoppers. The key is staying visible and building your credibility through great customer experiences and service.
Interested to learn more about local SEO and the Google Local 3 Pack?
For further insights on how small businesses can take advantage of being featured in the local 3 pack, feel free to explore the additional content available on our blog. Our collection of articles delves into topics such as local SEO tools, web development, and online advertising strategies.
