Don’t Get a Bad Rap Because of a Bad Map
Is Your Small Business on the Map?
Help Searchers Fetch the Right Facts—Map Your Business to See Results!
For brick-and-mortar businesses, getting customers to your location is everything. Most customers find you via voice search or a quick phone check for directions. That makes a Google Maps presence non-negotiable. If your profile isn’t set up or updated, here’s how to make it work for you with practical tips to stand out.
1. Why Google Maps is Your Small Business Lifeline
Google Maps is where customers go to find local businesses, especially for “near me” searches. An optimized listing puts you front and center for customers ready to visit.
Why it matters: Over 80% of consumers use Google to find local businesses, and 46% of searches have local intent (source: Google). No Google Maps listing? You’re invisible to customers looking for you.
Pro tip: Claim your Google Business Profile to rank higher in local searches.
2. Build Customer Trust With Accurate Open Hours
Wrong hours can frustrate customers and cost you sales. Accurate hours ensure customers know that you’re open for business, making their visit seamless.
Why it matters: Customers rely on Google Maps for planning. Inaccurate hours lead to negative reviews or lost sales, especially for time-sensitive visits like dining or urgent services.
Case study: Sarah, a busy professional, visited a boutique based on Google Maps’ 11 AM opening time. She arrived three different days to a closed shop—because the staff didn’t arrive until after noon! Her one-star review was the only one showing on the google page, hurting the business’s reputation. To solve for the problem, they posted a sign when they’re closed to direct visitors next door to gain access to the shop if a staff member was late or a no-show. Then we claimed the business site, and crafted a review response and invited her back, they’ve since received five-star ratings, and have turned frustrated customers into loyal ones.
Pro tip: Use Google’s “special hours” feature for holidays or seasonal changes. Sync hours with your website and social media for consistency.
3. Drive Foot Traffic With Pinpoint Location Accuracy
A precise Google Maps pin ensures customers find you easily. A misplaced pin can send them to the wrong spot—or a competitor.
Why it matters: Accurate navigation is crucial in busy areas or tucked-away locations. A correct pin gets customers to your door.
Pro tip: In a hard to find location? Add a “landmark” description (e.g., “Next to the red coffee shop”) in your Google Business Profile to help customers spot you.
4. Boost Credibility & Respond to Reviews (Bonus Points!)
Replying to Google Maps reviews shows you value customers. Responding to positive and negative feedback builds trust and strengthens your reputation.
Why it matters: 88% of consumers prefer businesses that respond to reviews (source: BrightLocal, 2023). Engagement can also boost your local search rankings.
Pro tip: Highlight your strengths in responses. For example, thank a customer for praising your “fast service” and mention same-day appointments to attract new clients.
5. Don’t Forget Other Local Search Platforms
Google dominates, but Apple Maps (key for iPhone/Safari users) and Bing Places (great for older demographics and Windows users) ensure you’re found. Yelp helps restaurants with reviews, while Waze suits driving-focused businesses.
Why it matters: Apple Maps powers Safari searches on iPhones, and Bing’s 1.2 billion monthly searches capture older customers. Waze and Yelp are often added to round out the mix.
Pro tip: Our agency can help you identify and set-up the accounts that work for you. We’ll ensure your name, address, and hours are consistent across platforms for SEO.
Conclusion
A Google Maps listing is a must for small businesses to attract local customers and build trust. But don’t leave out plus Apple Maps, Bing Places, and Waze to ensure your customer experience shines. Accurate hours, a precise location, and active review engagement turn your listings into a growth engine. Too busy to manage it? Let us help optimize your profiles for success.
Call to Action: Ready to get found on Google Maps, Bing, and more? Contact us for expert optimization. We’ll put your business on the map—fast!