Ever searched for a local business on Google Maps and wondered why yours isn’t popping up? In today’s digital age, being visible on Google Maps is crucial for attracting local customers. It’s like having a digital storefront that guides people right to your door. If your business isn’t showing up, you’re missing out on valuable leads and potential sales. Let’s delve into the common reasons why this happens and, more importantly, how to fix it, especially for those in the competitive local SEO Auckland market.
Key Takeaways
- Google Business Profile (GBP) Verification is Key: Without a verified GBP, your business won’t show up reliably.
- NAP Consistency is Critical: Name, Address, and Phone Number (NAP) must be identical across all online platforms.
- Local SEO Optimisation Matters: Using location-specific keywords and optimising your GBP is essential.
- Reviews and Backlinks Build Credibility: Positive reviews and quality backlinks enhance your local SEO.
- Targeted Location Strategies are Vital: Specific areas like East Auckland require tailored keyword strategies.
Reason #1: Unverified Google Business Profile (GBP)
The most common reason for not appearing on Google Maps is an unverified Google Business Profile. Think of your GBP as the official digital listing for your business. Google needs to confirm that you are the rightful owner. Without verification, your listing might be incomplete or simply not be shown.
- How to Fix It:
- Claim and verify your GBP immediately. Google offers several verification methods, including phone, email, and postcard. Follow the steps carefully.
- Ensure all information is accurate and complete, including business hours, services, and photos.
- Consider using a local SEO company to help set this up correctly.
- Seeing if your GBP is verified and you own it:
- In Google, search for your business name. If Google shows your something like the screenshot below, it means you either don’t own your listing or you need to change to the Google account that owns the listing.
- You know you manage/own your GBP if you see something like the image below:
- In Google, search for your business name. If Google shows your something like the screenshot below, it means you either don’t own your listing or you need to change to the Google account that owns the listing.
Reason #2: Inconsistent NAP (Name, Address, Phone Number)
Consistency is king when it comes to local SEO. Google gets confused if your business name, address, or phone number varies across different online directories and your website. This inconsistency can significantly hurt your visibility on Google Maps.
- How to Fix It:
- Conduct a thorough audit of your NAP across all online platforms. Make sure that your business name is EXACTLY the same on your Socials + Google Business Profile.
- Standardise your NAP information. For example, use the same address format and, same number format. If you use +64 on socials, use this across all channels, even on your GBP.
- Update any incorrect information on directories like Yelp, Yellow Pages, and industry-specific listings.
- This is a large part of what any good local SEO consultant will do.
Reason #3: Poor Local SEO Optimisation
Just having a GBP isn’t enough. You need to optimise it for local SEO to rank higher in local search results. This involves using relevant keywords, adding high-quality photos, and providing detailed information about your services.
- How to Fix It:
- Use location-specific keywords in your GBP description and website content. For example, “East Auckland Plumber” or “Best Café in Howick.”
- Add high-resolution photos of your business, products, and services.
- Encourage customer reviews to build credibility.
- Utilise local SEO city landing pages on your website to target specific locations.
Reason #4: Lack of Reviews and Backlinks
Reviews and backlinks are crucial for building trust and authority in Google’s eyes. Positive reviews signal that your business is reputable, while quality backlinks from authoritative websites enhance your domain authority.
- How to Fix It:
- Encourage customers to leave reviews on your GBP and other platforms.
- Respond to reviews, both positive and negative, professionally. Don’t just say “Thank You for the review”. Spend a few minutes and write something impactful. Alternatively, you can get AI software tools to do this for you.
- Build high-quality backlinks from relevant local websites and directories.
- A local SEO campaign should include a strategy for building both.
Reason #5: Incorrect Location Settings and Targeting
Sometimes, your business might not be showing up because of incorrect location settings or targeting. This is especially important for businesses serving specific areas, like those targeting customers in East Auckland.
- How to Fix It:
- Ensure your GBP accurately reflects your service area.
- Use location-specific keywords in your website content and GBP.
- Create content on your website and GBP that targets local customers, such as blog posts about local events or news.
Getting your business to show up on Google Maps doesn’t have to be a mystery. By addressing these common issues and implementing effective local SEO strategies, you can improve your visibility and attract more local customers. Remember, consistency, accuracy, and relevance are key. Whether you’re a small business owner in East Auckland or a national brand, focusing on these fundamentals will make a significant difference.
Ready to boost your local visibility? Don’t let your business get lost in the digital crowd.
