If you’re running a local business, your Google My Business (GMB) ranking could be the difference between a flood of new customers or being completely ignored.

In 2025, with competition at an all-time high, businesses that rank at the top of Google Maps and local search results are winning – while those stuck on page two or three might as well not exist.

If you’re not actively working on your GMB ranking, you’re leaving money on the table. Here’s why it’s so important and how you can improve your ranking to attract more customers.

Why Your GMB Ranking is Critical for Your Business

When people search for services like “plumber near me”, “best barber in Aberdeen”, or “roofing services”, Google shows them a local map pack – the top three businesses in their area.

Here’s why ranking in that top 3 is a game-changer:

✅ 90% of people click on a business in the local map pack – If you’re not there, you’re missing out.
✅ Higher rankings = more calls, messages, and bookings – People trust Google’s top recommendations.
✅ Free traffic – Unlike paid ads, once you rank high, you get consistent leads without spending a penny.
✅ Beats traditional SEO for local searches – Many local customers skip websites and go straight to the map results.

If your business isn’t ranking in the top 3, your competitors are stealing your customers.

How to Improve Your GMB Ranking & Dominate Local Search

1. Fully Optimise Your GMB Profile

Google rewards businesses that fully complete their profile. Here’s what you need to do:

✅ Accurate Business Name & Categories – Make sure your name and categories match what customers search for.
✅ Detailed Business Description – Use relevant keywords naturally (e.g., “We provide high-quality pressure washing services in Aberdeen”).
✅ Add Services & Products – Listing your services helps Google understand what you offer.
✅ Post Regular Updates – Posting photos, offers, and updates tells Google your business is active.

2. Get More 5-Star Reviews (And Respond to Every One!)

Google prioritises businesses with good reviews, so the more authentic 5-star reviews you get, the higher you’ll rank.

🚀 How to get more reviews:

• Ask every satisfied customer to leave a review.
• Send a direct review link via text or email after service.
• Offer an incentive (if allowed in your industry) – e.g., a small discount for leaving feedback.
• Respond to every review – Positive or negative, engagement shows Google you’re active.

🔹 Pro Tip: Keywords in reviews help rankings! If a customer says, “Best window cleaning service in Aberdeen,” it helps boost your ranking for that search.

3. Build Local Citations & Consistency

Google checks if your business information (Name, Address, Phone Number – NAP) is consistent across the web.

🔹 To improve rankings:

• Make sure your NAP is identical on Google My Business, Facebook, Yelp, Bing, and directories like Yell and Trustpilot.
• Submit your business to local directories and industry-specific sites.
• Remove duplicates and incorrect listings, as inconsistencies hurt rankings.
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4. Get More Clicks & Engagement (Google Tracks This!)

Google rewards listings that get clicks, calls, and interactions.

✅ Encourage customers to visit your profile by sharing your GMB link.
✅ Post engaging updates (before & after photos, special offers, seasonal deals).
✅ Use Google Messages – Activate this feature so potential customers can message you directly.
✅ Keep your opening hours updated – Outdated info lowers trust and rankings.

5. Improve Your Website & Local SEO

Your website still plays a role in GMB rankings. To boost it:
🔹 Make sure your website is fast, mobile-friendly, and SEO-optimised.
🔹 Add local keywords like “best plumber in Aberdeen” to your content.
🔹 Include your address and phone number on every page.
🔹 Create location-based blog posts (e.g., “Top 5 Pressure Washing Companies in Aberdeen”).

Final Thoughts: Ranking on GMB = More Customers, Less Effort

If you’re not in the top 3 of Google My Business, your competitors are getting leads that could be yours. By optimising your GMB profile, getting more reviews, and improving local SEO, you can rank higher, attract more customers, and grow your business without spending more on ads.

🚀 Need Help Boosting Your GMB Rankings?

At Aberdeen Media Marketing, we specialise in getting local businesses into the top 3 of Google My Business, bringing them more leads, calls, and revenue.

💬 Book a Free 30-Minute Growth Call Today + Get a Free Business Audit to see your Results and let’s get your business ranking where it belongs – at the top!

📅 Click here to book now!