Do we need an exact marker on Google Maps?

[ScottImageWorks]

My business covers a service area, but we would still like to have a precise listing on Google Maps for SEO purposes.

Is it possible to edit maps to set up a specific address listing, or is that something we can only do when establishing the Google+ listing? I think (correct me if I'm wrong) that when you set up a service area in your plus/places account, Google limits how much of your address is shown in maps.

Feedback appreciated!

[MiriamEllis]

Hi Jess,

Unfortunately, it's a pretty universal complaint of SABs that they get second class treatment from Google's local product. This has always been the case. There are numerous open threads on this topic on the Google And Your Business help forum, and you might find a good matching case there that will help you diagnose the nuances of your own scenario:

https://productforums.google.com/forum/#!searchin/business/pin$20marker$20wrong|sort:date

This one provides instructions for moving the pin:

https://productforums.google.com/forum/#!searchin/business/pin$20marker$20wrong|sort:date/business/aokxdjIY2Mk/dxwa5x_2fmkJ

Also highly recommend you peruse this discussion:

http://localsearchforum.catalystemarketing.com/google-local/19572-incorrect-pin-marker-map-google-mybusiness-page.html

Hope these resources are helpful!

[ScottImageWorks]

I understand, and I do have my business (and my clients' businesses) set up with their exact, physical addresses. The issue my boss discovered is that our map marker wasn't in the correct spot (for which he requested edits through Google Maps).

I'm wondering if we weren't placed in the proper spot because we set up our Google+/Places profile as a service area (we work with clients at our office but we also serve clients in their own locations).

I'm also curious how important it is to have an exact Maps listing for SEO purposes. I have some clients (like an HVAC company) that only offer a service area, but I would hate for them to rank lower on Google because they don't have a pin on the map.

[Chris.Menke]

Jess, It boils down to you gotta have a specific business address, for your listing.  Don't think of it like Adwords where you can designate an area, your Google My Business listing has to have a physical address where you do business and get mail, otherwise it will not be considered a legitimate listing.  Here are Google's local biz quality "guidelines" (rules).