When you do a Google search, have
you ever noticed the business listings that show at the top of the page? The
top three local listings that appear are called the Google 3 Pack.
As a business owner, you understand
how vital it is to show up at the top of the first page when people are searching
for your products or services in your area. Increasing your visibility via
local search results can help you be more competitive. Being in the Google 3 Pack can drive traffic to your website and
increase your SEO rankings.
How to Get Your Business in the 3 Pack
The following are some methods for increasing your ranking
within a local search:
Local Reviews
Google’s algorithm
is tailored to rank local results, and it’s especially favorable to businesses
that have online reviews, as this helps with decision making for buyers. Make
sure to encourage your customers to give your business feedback on Google and
other sites like Angie’s List, Bing and Yahoo, for example.
Links
Links to
your website can optimize your chances of ranking in the 3 Pack. For every
guest blog or blog comment that you write, include a link to your website. Link to your site from your published
articles, interviews, press release and directory listings.
Google My Business
Manage your
online presence in Google Search and Maps by using Google My Business. This is
a free tool that allows you to post all your relevant business information to
help customers find you more easily in a Google Search.
Other Directory
Listings
Add your
business to additional directories like Yelp and YP.com. Find out which
listings are critical for your industry and location. Gradually add your
listing to these sites and be sure all information is consistent across the board.
Upcoming Changes in the 3 Pack
Will the 3
Pack soon be including ads? It looks like this isn’t just
a rumor; indeed, the ad will soon show up above two other organic, local
listings. This change will likely add financial strains to businesses that
haven’t relied on pay per click in the past.
The new phase is still being
tested, so it is unclear exactly how this change will appear when Google
implements it. However, speculation has shown that paid ads could cause organic
listings to have a weaker ranking.
Appearing
in the Google 3 Pack is valuable way to gain local attention. Keep these tips
in mind and your chances of appearing in this coveted list will increase.
