For searches like “salon near me”, Google shows a map with three businesses. Those three get most of the calls and visits. Getting into that group is one of the best things a local business can do.
How Google decides the top three
- Relevance: how well your profile matches the search.
- Distance: how close you are to the searcher or the area they named.
- Prominence: how well known and trusted you are, from reviews, links and activity.
You cannot move your shop, but you can improve relevance and prominence.
Steps that improve relevance
- Choose the most specific primary category.
- Add relevant secondary categories.
- List every service and product with descriptions.
- Write a description that mentions what you do and where.
- Make sure your website has a page for each main service, linked from your profile.
Steps that build prominence
- Earn a steady flow of genuine reviews, not bursts.
- Reply to every review.
- Add new photos and posts weekly.
- Get listed on trusted local directories with identical details.
- Earn local links and mentions.
Check where you stand
Use our Google Business Profile score checker to find gaps. Then search your main keywords from different parts of your city, or ask staff who live in other areas. You will see how your position changes by location.
How long does it take?
Many businesses see movement within four to eight weeks of fixing their profile and starting a review system. Busier markets take longer.
Read our 12 profile fixes for detailed steps.
Want the full picture? This article is part of Google Business Profile: the complete guide, our in-depth guide with everything in one place.
