The Google Local Pack is a nifty feature that appears at the top of search results when people search for local stuff. It could be anything: Restaurants, concert venues, auto mechanics, carpenters, state parks, RV dealerships — you name it, Google’s on it. The Local Pack includes a map and three local business listings that match the search. Some call it the Map Pack, Snack Pack, or Google 3-Pack, but it all boils down to the same thing.

For local businesses, the Local Pack is a golden opportunity to get noticed by potential customers. It's like having front-row seats at a concert (sort of). To grab a front-row seat, you’ll need to work some magic with your Google My Business listing.

What does Google look for when ranking businesses in the Local Pack?

Relevance

Google wants to match the search query with the most relevant businesses. So, it checks the keywords, your business's location and the category it falls into.

Prominence

It's like being a famous celebrity in your hometown. Google looks at how “famous” you are in the online world. This includes the number of reviews and ratings, backlinks to your website and how often your business gets mentioned in other online directories.

Distance

Nobody wants to travel to the moon to get a pizza (although space pizza sounds kinda far out). So, Google considers the distance between the user and your business to show the nearest options.

Now that you’ve got a basic understanding of what Google looks for, let's get into action mode and explore some solutions to this local quandary. Here are some simple things to boost your chances of getting in the Local Pack:

Complete Your Google My Business Listing

Give Google all the details it needs: Your business name, address, phone number, website and even some flashy photos – don't miss any chance to impress!

Get Reviews

Get your fans to cheer for you! Encourage customers to leave positive reviews on Google My Business. Current studies show that 85% of consumers trust online reviews as much as they trust personal recommendations, and 72% of consumers say that positive online reviews influence their purchasing decisions.

Optimize Your Website

Your website needs some local love too. Use local keywords in your content and metadata. Stick your address and phone number in the footer. Google loves it when your site speaks local lingo. Make sure you’re optimized for mobile too!

Claim and Verify Your Listing

Don't let others steal your spotlight! Claiming your Google My Business listing and getting verified shows Google that you are a legitimate business, which can help to boost your chances of getting included in the Google Local Pack.

Photos and Videos

Show off your best side! Visual content can make you stand out in the Local Pack. After all, a picture speaks a thousand words (to both humans and bots!).

Keep Everything Fresh

Always be on point. Keep your business info up-to-date, including your business hours, address and phone number.

In case you didn’t realize it, or if much of this went right over your head, or if you just don’t have the time or man-power to get all of this accomplished in a timely manner, Lake Country Digital specializes in Local SEO!

In conjunction with our other services, Lake Country Digital can help get your business ranked at the top of Google search results for local searches. Our team of SEO experts can help with everything from keyword research to building your website and ensuring that it’s optimized.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you grow YOUR business.