Google maps listings

[davidmaxwell]

Hi all, I just wondered what determines the company listings that are displayed in maps. From what I can see any businesses highlighted in these lists have optimised Google Places pages and it doesn't seem to be based on general ranking as these lists seem different to the general SERPS.

Any thoughts at all appreciated. Pls see attached image.

Also, is there anything other than optimise your Places listing that might help ensure you are seen in these results?

IUK871m.jpg

[davidmaxwell]

Many thanks, all extremely helpful information! It's really appreciated.

This all gives me some food for thought and it also looks like I've got some work to do!

Thanks again.

[MiriamEllis]

Hi David,

So glad you asked, as we've just released the 2015 Local Search Ranking Factors survey, which should help give you the most comprehensive possible picture of the factors that are believed to most influence both local and local/organic rankings:

https://moz.com/local-search-ranking-factors

These factors are also applicable to Maps, so a thorough study of the survey should be helpful.

[aarongray]

Hey David,

A few things here, if I recall the ones that are showing up highlighted are sometimes ones you have seen or done a search for.

As for your map listing there is lots you can do. The most important things to do is the following:

Do local listings on yelp and other sites.

Insure you have the same address and business name on everything including your website. Little things like Street and St can be seen as different.

Put a google map on your website with the same address.

Ask your customers to do reviews. Be careful don't to do them yourself as Google does check lots of reviews from the same IP address.

These things can help get your map moving up.

[DmitriiK]

Hi.

Make sure your Business G+ is optimized, all info is consistent through different local listings and the website. Also, it won't hurt to link G+ and website contact page. Do use structured data to help Google understand who and what you are.

I do believe that organic search rankings have a positive effect too. If you're ranking in first three spots and you have G+ optimized, you'll most definitely be in local results as well.

Cheers.