How does Google prioritize local businesses in search results?

Short Answer: Google prioritizes local businesses in search results by displaying them prominently within local search features. Specifically, Google highlights the Google Business Profile through the map result and the three pack. These local elements are ranked ahead of traditional websites, with Google Guarantee and Google Ads often shown even before local business listings.

Full Explanation

When Google presents search results for local businesses, its focus is on providing users with the most relevant and geographically close options. Instead of primarily showing website links, Google elevates local business listings, especially those with a Google Business Profile. This means that local businesses appear directly on the map alongside the so-called “three pack,” which is a curated selection of three top local businesses related to the search. This approach helps users quickly find nearby services or stores without needing to sift through numerous website pages.

Google also places a priority order within these local and paid results. For services that are eligible, a Google Guarantee—an additional trust signal—appears at the very top. Following that, Google Ads occupy a high position, providing businesses that pay for ads with visibility. Only after these premium placements does the three pack of Google Business Profile listings show up, and after them, the traditional website results.

Step-by-Step Breakdown

1. Google Guarantee listings show up first for services that qualify.
2. Next, Google Ads are displayed, which are paid placements.
3. Then, Google shows the three pack, which is a set of three Google Business Profiles featured on the map.
4. Finally, website links appear, often below all of these local and paid results.

Real Examples

For example, if someone searches for a local plumbing service, the very first results they see might be businesses backed by Google’s Guarantee program. Below those, paid ads for plumbing businesses will appear. Then users will see the map featuring the three pack of top-rated local plumbers. Lastly, traditional website listings for plumbers in the area are shown.

Common Mistakes

• Ignoring the importance of setting up and optimizing a Google Business Profile, which is critical to appearing in the three pack.
• Overlooking the ranking order of the features, expecting websites to appear before local listings or ads.
• Not recognizing that Google Guarantee is prioritized above all for eligible services, which impacts visibility.

FAQs

What is the Google Business Profile?

It is a free listing that represents your business on Google Search and Maps, essential for local SEO.

What is the three pack?

The three pack is a group of three local business listings shown prominently in Google’s local search results.

Does Google always show Google Ads above local listings?

Generally, Google Ads appear above the three pack unless Google Guarantee is applicable and shown first.

Key Takeaways

• Google prioritizes local businesses through Google Business Profiles on maps and the three pack.
• The ranking order generally starts with Google Guarantee, followed by Google Ads, then the three pack, and finally websites.
• Understanding this prioritization can help businesses focus on the right local SEO strategies.