What’s the Fastest Way to Rank Higher on Google Maps?
Reading Time: 2 minutes TL;DR Summary: Adding keyword-rich descriptions to the services listed in your Google Business Profile can significantly improve your visibility on Google Maps. By including targeted keywords, location information, and benefit statements in these descriptions, you provide Google with more relevant data to match search intent, potentially ranking your business higher. Regularly updating and expanding these descriptions can further enhance your local SEO efforts. This quick and simple tactic can have a significant impact, especially for businesses in competitive local niches.
How Do I Get on Top of Google Maps?
If you’re trying to show up better on Google Maps, this one quick fix can actually move the needle—fast. The best part? Most local businesses have no idea it exists.
It all comes down to something buried inside your Google Business Profile (GBP): Service Descriptions.
The Step Most Businesses Skip
When you add services to your Google Business Profile—like “Tree Removal,” “Teeth Whitening,” or “Lawn Aeration”—Google lets you add a description for each one. But by default, these fields are blank.
And if you leave them blank, you’re missing out on one of the quickest wins in local SEO.
Here’s What to Do
- Log into your Google Business Profile at business.google.com.
- Navigate to the Services section.
- Click on each service you’ve listed—then add a short, keyword-rich description.
Keep each one natural, useful, and local-focused.
What to Include in the Descriptions
This is where it gets powerful. Your descriptions should include:
- The keyword you want to rank for
- The city or area you’re targeting
- A short benefit statement (why someone would want that service)
Example:
Instead of just saying “We offer pressure washing,” try:
“Affordable pressure washing in Springfield, MO to help homeowners keep their siding and driveways clean year-round.”
Why It Works
Google is trying to match search intent with real, useful data. When you clearly state what you do and where you do it, you give Google more reasons to put you in front of the right people.
That tiny block of text? It gives Google more local signals—and more confidence to rank you higher.
Pro Tip: Update and Expand Regularly
If you add a new service, add a description right away. If you expand into a new city or neighborhood, update the relevant service descriptions to reflect that.
This isn’t a “set it and forget it” tactic. It’s a mini content opportunity most businesses miss.
Final Thoughts
This takes maybe 15–20 minutes to do, but it’s one of the fastest, easiest ways to improve your visibility on Google Maps. Especially in competitive local niches.
So don’t just list your services—describe them. Google wants that info, and your future customers are already searching for it.
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