Advice from Local SEO Staten Island
What is the Google Map Pack?
The Google Map Pack, also called the Local Pack, is a crucial feature of Google’s search results that displays a list of three local businesses relevant to a user’s search query. This feature appears at the top of the search results page, usually above the traditional organic listings, and includes a map pinpointing the location of these businesses alongside crucial information such as their name, rating, and business hours. The Map Pack is generated based on relevance, distance, and prominence, aiming to provide users with the most relevant local options for their needs.
Why is it important to rank there (ROI)?
Ranking in the Google Map Pack is precious for businesses due to its prominent visibility on search result pages. Being featured in the Map Pack can significantly increase a business’s exposure to potential customers actively searching for related services or products in their area. This visibility directly translates into higher click-through rates, more foot traffic, and increased calls or inquiries, offering a substantial return on investment (ROI). Businesses listed in the Map Pack are perceived as trustworthy and relevant by potential customers, which can enhance brand reputation and drive sales.
How do business hours affect placement?
Recent updates to Google’s algorithm have emphasized the importance of accurate business hours on a Google Business Profile (GBP), affecting a business’s placement in the Map Pack. Businesses that accurately list their operating hours, especially those that extend beyond standard hours, are now more likely to rank higher.
Google aims to match users with available services when needed, making the accuracy and extent of business hours a significant factor. Misrepresenting business hours to appear open 24/7 or outside actual operating times can negatively impact a business’s credibility and ranking, as Google prioritizes user experience and accurate information.
What should this mean for your Staten Island Business?
What this means is that you need to consider your business hours. Most people would prefer to work a traditional 9 to 5 job, but according to Google, extending those hours might get you in front of more people. If your competitors close at 5, and your hours are later, you are more likely to appear in the map pack after 5:00 PM.
As mentioned above, you need to be accurate with your hours, so if you move to 7 or later, you’ll need someone to operate the phones and answer if someone calls. If people call and it goes to voicemail, Google will eventually notice and penalize you. In a worst-case scenario, a GMP can be blocked.
It is essential to remember that the results are still out, and only some businesses will see a bump. The work to make the change is minimal, and you can test to see if the change has increased ranking and traffic.
It is essential to keep in mind that the results are still out, and not every business is going to see a bump as a result. The work to make the change is minimal, and you can test to see if the change has increased ranking and traffic.
There are so many factors affecting Google placement, from big too small. Business hours just happen to be one of these many factors, and it is something simple everyone can do. It is important to recognize, however, that this is just one of many steps to enhance visibility through search engine optimization.
