The 7-step process to getting your business into the local 3-pack and dominating search results in your town.
A shopper in Aylesbury needs a plumber. A business owner in Milton Keynes needs an accountant. They all do the same thing: they pick up their phone and type what they need into Google.
The first thing they see is the Google Map Pack. These three businesses get the lion's share of enquiries. If you aren't there, you're invisible to high-intent local buyers.
Go to business.google.com. Claim your listing and complete verification (postcard/phone). This is the foundation.
| ✅ Do | ❌ Don't |
|---|---|
| Use your legal business name exactly | Add keywords to your name (e.g. "Smith SEO") |
| List every specific service you offer | Use broad categories like "Business Service" |
Businesses with photos get 42% more direction requests. But they must be real, not stock images.
Google considers Quantity, Recency, and Response Speed. A steady flow of 4.8+ reviews is your strongest trust signal.
| ✅ Do | ❌ Don't |
|---|---|
| Request reviews immediately after a job | Send generic requests weeks later |
| Respond to 100% of reviews (Good & Bad) | Ignore reviews or argue with critics |
Post once a week. Project updates, tips, or seasonal offers. It signals to Google that you are active and relevant.
NAP = Name, Address, Phone. This info must be Identical across your Website, Google Profile, Facebook, and local directories (Yell, Thomson, etc).
I'll audit your local visibility and show you exactly what's blocking you from the top 3 spots — no jargon, just a road-map.
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