If you run a local business, you already know how important it is to show up on Google — especially on Google Maps. When someone searches “salon near me” or “best bakery in Hyderabad,” businesses that appear in the Google Map Pack (the top 3 results) get the most calls, clicks, and visits.

The good news? You don’t need to be a digital marketing expert to improve your Google My Business (GMB) ranking. You can boost your visibility and attract more local customers with a few smart changes and consistency.

Here are 7 simple and proven tips to help improve your GMB ranking:

1. Claim and Verify Your GMB Listing

First, if you haven’t already claimed your business on Google, do it now. Visit https://www.google.com/business and search for your business. If it shows up, claim it. If it doesn’t, create a new listing.

Then, verify your business by receiving a postcard or phone call from Google. Verified businesses always perform better in rankings.

2. Optimize Your Business Information

Make sure your listing has complete, accurate, and up-to-date details. Google prefers listings that help users quickly find what they need.

Here’s what to check:

• Correct business name

• An accurate address and pin location on the map

• Active phone number

• Proper business categories (e.g., “Digital Marketing Institute” instead of just “Education”)

• Working hours (add holiday hours too)

Bonus Tip: Add keywords naturally in your business description to help Google understand your services better.

3. Collect and Respond to Google Reviews

One of the most significant ranking factors for GMB is customer reviews. Businesses with more positive reviews often rank higher.

• Ask happy customers to leave a review (share a direct link with them)

• Respond to every review, both good and bad

• Use keywords in your replies when it makes sense

Example reply: “Thanks for choosing our digital marketing course in Hyderabad. We’re glad you found the training helpful!”

4. Add High-Quality Photos Regularly

Photos help your listing stand out — and Google loves fresh content.

Upload:

• Your logo and cover photo

• Inside and outside shots of your business

• Team or staff pictures

• Product or service photos

• Customer interaction or event photos

Tip: Add at least one new photo every week to keep your profile active.

5. Post Regular Updates on GMB

Most people don’t know you can post updates on your GMB profile, just like a social media post.

Use this to:

• Promote offers or discounts

• Announce events or product launches

• Share blog links or updates

• Add CTAs like “Call Now” or “Learn More”

Posting weekly helps Google see your business as active, which can improve rankings.

6. Use Local Keywords and Services

In your business description, services section, and GMB posts, include local keywords like:

• “Best digital marketing course in Hyderabad”

• “Affordable dentist near Jubilee Hills”

• “Catering service in Banjara Hills”

Be natural, don’t stuff keywords — just ensure Google knows what you offer and where.

7. Get Listed on Local Directories

Google checks other websites to confirm your business info. So make sure you’re listed (with the same name, address, and phone) on:

• Justdial

• Sulekha

• IndiaMART

• Facebook Business

• Local chamber of commerce directories

This consistency builds trust and boosts your local authority.

Final Thoughts

Ranking higher on Google My Business isn’t about tricks but being helpful, active, and consistent. By keeping your listing complete, engaging with customers, and posting regular updates, you can improve your GMB ranking and attract more people to your business.

Start with one step today: upload a photo, write a new post, or reply to a review. Over time, your listing will grow stronger, and your local visibility will follow.