How to Rank Your Google Business Profile in the Top 3 for Maps (UK Guide)

Google Maps is one of the most powerful tools for small businesses in the UK, especially for bricks & mortar businesses & tradespeople who serve multiple areas. Securing a top 3 ranking (the local pack) can significantly boost visibility, increase foot traffic, and generate more local leads. Here at Yopp we get asked all time how Google ranks you in the local pack for maximum visibility. Before we show you how to rank your Google Business page in the top 3 for your location, let’s discuss why it’s important to be in the top.

Why Ranking in the Top 3 for Google Maps is Crucial

Ranking in the top 3 positions on Google Maps is essential because these businesses receive the majority of clicks, calls, and directions. Users searching for services on Google often look at the local pack first, meaning if your business isn’t in the top 3, you’re missing out on a significant number of potential customers.

One of the most important aspects of ranking high in Google Maps is the “click-to-call” feature on mobile devices. When users search for local businesses, they often need an immediate solution, whether it’s an emergency plumber, a roofing repair service, or a nearby restaurant. Being in the top 3 means your business is one tap away from receiving a direct call, leading to instant customer inquiries and conversions.

With mobile searches continuing to rise, appearing at the top of Google Maps ensures higher engagement, more leads, and increased revenue for your business.

This guide will take you through the best strategies to rank your Google Business Profile (GBP) higher in local search results.

1. Optimise Your Google Business Profile (GBP)

1.1. Ensure Complete and Accurate Business Information

Google prioritises businesses that have complete, up-to-date, and accurate information. Ensure you fill out every possible field, including:

• Business Name (as per your signage and branding)
• Address (if applicable) or Service Areas (for trades and mobile businesses)
• Phone Number (local numbers preferred)
• Website URL (must match the business name)
• Business Category (select the most relevant primary and secondary categories)
• Business Hours (keep these accurate, including holiday hours)
• Business Description (use natural language with relevant keywords)
• Attributes (such as ‘Wheelchair Accessible’, ‘Family-Friendly’, or ‘LGBTQ+ Friendly’)

1.2. Choose the Right Business Category

Selecting the most accurate and relevant category is crucial. Your primary category should match your core service.

Example:

• A driveway installation company should use “Paving Contractor” instead of a broad term like “Construction Company.”
• A roofing company should use “Roofing Contractor” instead of “Home Improvement.”

1.3. Add High-Quality Photos and Videos

Google rewards businesses with frequent photo uploads. Add real photos of your:

• Shopfront or office
• Work vehicles (for mobile businesses)
• Completed projects (driveways, kitchens, roofs, etc.)
• Team at work
• Before-and-after photos of services

Videos are highly engaging, so consider uploading short clips showcasing your services, testimonials, or behind-the-scenes footage.

1.4. Use Google Posts Regularly

Google Posts allow you to share updates, offers, and news. These posts appear on your profile and can boost engagement. Use them to:

• Promote seasonal offers or discounts
• Share new blog posts or case studies
• Highlight recent customer reviews
• Announce new services or locations

2. Gather and Manage Customer Reviews

2.1. Encourage Happy Customers to Leave Reviews

Google considers the number and quality of reviews when ranking businesses in Maps. Here’s how to increase reviews:

• Ask satisfied customers directly after service completion.
• Send a follow-up email or text with a Google review link.
• Offer a small incentive (e.g. entry into a monthly prize draw).
• Place a QR code on invoices or signage that links to the review page.

2.2. Respond to All Reviews (Positive and Negative)

Responding to reviews signals active engagement and helps with rankings.

Example responses:

• Positive Review: “Thanks, [Customer Name]! We appreciate your kind words and look forward to working with you again.”
• Negative Review: “Sorry for your experience, [Customer Name]. We’d love to resolve this. Please contact us at [your email].”

3. Improve Your Local SEO with Citations and Links

3.1. Build Local Citations

Citations are online mentions of your business’s Name, Address, and Phone Number (NAP) on directories such as:

• Yell
• Thomson Local
• Checkatrade
• Rated People
• Trustpilot

Ensure that your NAP details are consistent across all platforms.

3.2. Get Local Backlinks

Local backlinks from authoritative sites improve rankings. Reach out to:

• Local newspapers for business features
• Community blogs for guest posting
• Partner businesses for cross-promotion
• Local chamber of commerce or business directories

4. Use Location-Based Keywords on Your Website

Your website plays a significant role in GBP rankings. Optimise pages with location-based keywords:

• “Roofing company in Manchester”
• “Driveway installers near Nottingham”
• “Best electrician in Liverpool”

Ensure that your homepage, service pages, and blog content reflect these geo-targeted terms.

5. Leverage Social Media for Local Engagement

Engaging on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn can increase your local authority. Strategies include:

• Tagging your Google Business Profile in posts
• Sharing customer reviews
• Using local hashtags
• Running geo-targeted ads

6. Maintain Active Engagement with Google Maps

Google values businesses that engage with their listings. Regularly:

• Upload new photos/videos
• Update business hours for holidays
• Post weekly Google Posts
• Respond to messages and questions

7. Monitor Performance with Google Business Insights

Track your GBP’s performance using Google Business Insights. Key metrics include:

• Searches: How customers find your business (direct, discovery, branded)
• Views: Profile views on Google Search and Maps
• Actions: Website clicks, calls, direction requests
• Photo Views: Engagement on uploaded images

Use this data to adjust strategies and improve visibility.

Final Thoughts

Ranking in the top 3 of Google Maps for your area requires ongoing effort and optimisation. By implementing the above strategies, UK small businesses—including tradespeople, driveway specialists, roofers, and local stores—can significantly improve their online visibility, attract more local customers, and grow their business.

Need help with your local SEO strategy? Get in touch today with Yopp and let us take the headache out of it for you.