How to Rank Higher on Google Maps in the UK

Why Google Maps Matters

For local businesses, Google Maps is where the money is. When someone searches "plumber near me" or "hair salon Leeds", the Maps results get the clicks. If you're not there, you're losing jobs to competitors who are.

What Actually Affects Your Ranking

Relevance

Does your profile match what people are searching for? Your categories, services, and description all matter.

Distance

How close are you to the searcher? You can't change your location, but you can make sure Google knows exactly where you are.

Prominence

How well-known and trusted is your business online? Reviews, website quality, and citations all play a role.

Practical Steps

Get Your Categories Right

Your primary category is the single most important ranking factor. Don't be generic. "Emergency Plumber" beats "Plumber" for emergency searches.

Build Reviews Consistently

Not 50 in one week then nothing. Steady, ongoing reviews signal an active business. Make it easy for happy customers to leave one.

Complete Your Profile

Every empty field is a missed opportunity. Services, products, attributes, photos. Fill it all in.

Post Regularly

Google Posts show activity. A weekly update, offer, or tip keeps your profile fresh.

Get Cited Correctly

Your business name, address, and phone number should be identical everywhere online. Inconsistencies confuse Google.

The Reality

This stuff works, but it takes time and consistency. Most business owners start strong then let it slide. That's why done-for-you services exist.