Ranking in the Top 3 of Google My Business (GMB) is essential for attracting local customers. When users search for services near them, Google displays the top three GMB listings above even the traditional website results. If your business isn’t listed there, you’re likely missing out on a significant number of leads.
In this detailed guide, you’ll learn how to optimize your GMB profile and secure a spot in the top three with strategies trusted by every top-tier SEO expert.
What is the Google Local 3-Pack and Why It Matters
The Local 3-Pack is the top section in local search results that displays three business listings, directly pulled from Google My Business.
Why it matters:
- Increased Visibility: It’s the first thing users see in local searches.
- More Engagement: Most users click or call directly from this section.
- High Trust Factor: Businesses in the top 3 are perceived as more credible.
A skilled SEO expert will always prioritize Local 3-Pack visibility in your strategy.
Claim and Verify Your GMB Profile
The first step to ranking higher is claiming and verifying your Google My Business listing. Visit Google Business, sign in, and claim your listing. Google typically sends a verification code by postcard.
Without verification, you cannot edit your listing or optimize it, which means limited visibility and lost opportunities.
Fill Out Your Profile Completely
Google ranks businesses with complete profiles higher than those with missing details.
Key things to update:
- Accurate NAP (Name, Address, Phone number)
- Business categories
- Business description (include keywords naturally)
- Business hours
- Website link
- Services and products
An SEO expert ensures this data is filled out and aligned with your other online listings, which directly affects your local rankings.
Use High-Quality Photos and Videos
Businesses with photos receive significantly more clicks, calls, and direction requests.
What to upload:
- Storefront and interior images
- Staff photos
- Product and service shots
- Branded videos and customer testimonials
Fresh visuals improve engagement and signal activity to Google.
Get Consistent and Positive Reviews
Reviews play a major role in local SEO. The quantity, quality, and recency of your reviews influence your position in the Local 3-Pack.
Tips:
- Ask customers for reviews after service completion
- Use review-generation tools
- Respond to all reviews professionally
- Address negative feedback with solutions
A well-rounded local SEO expert will set up automated follow-ups to help gather more feedback regularly.
Post Regularly on Your GMB Profile
Treat your GMB listing like a social media platform. Regular updates tell Google that your business is active and relevant.
Post ideas:
- Offers and discounts
- Business news or updates
- Seasonal promotions
- Product launches
Use relevant local keywords and maintain consistency. It’s a technique used by every experienced SEO expert to keep profiles fresh and engaging.
Create and Maintain Local Citations
Citations are mentions of your business name, address, and phone number on directories like Yelp, Facebook, and Yellow Pages. The more consistent your citations, the better your rankings.
Key tasks:
- Audit existing citations
- Eliminate duplicates
- Ensure NAP consistency
- List in niche-specific directories
This is often managed as part of comprehensive local SEO services.
Optimize Your Website for Local SEO
Your website supports your GMB rankings. An optimized site makes it easier for Google to connect your profile with your content.
Optimization strategies:
- Add location-specific keywords in content
- Embed a Google Map
- Include schema markup (LocalBusiness)
- Add customer reviews and testimonials
- Make it mobile-friendly
A good SEO expert will ensure your website complements your GMB optimization seamlessly.
Monitor Performance and Analytics
Use GMB Insights and Google Analytics to track performance and make data-backed improvements.
Track:
- Phone calls
- Direction requests
- Website clicks
- Customer actions
- Popular keywords
Use UTM parameters to track where your traffic comes from, especially actions taken directly on your GMB listing.
Hire an SEO Expert for Local SEO Success
While you can manage your Google My Business yourself, an experienced SEO expert brings strategy, tools, and consistency to the table. They ensure that your listing is always competitive, regularly updated, and aligned with Google’s latest algorithm changes.
Why work with a local SEO expert:
- In-depth audit and gap analysis
- Professional citation building
- Structured data implementation
- Keyword tracking and reporting
- Strategy based on competitor research
For long-term, reliable success in local search, trusting an SEO expert is not just a convenience—it’s a necessity.
Final Thoughts
Ranking in the Top 3 on Google My Business can dramatically increase your visibility, leads, and local conversions. With consistent updates, complete information, and the help of a reliable SEO expert, your business can own the top positions in your local market.
Stay proactive, stay optimized—and the results will follow.