Let’s face it — if your business isn’t showing up on Google Maps or Apple Maps, you might as well be invisible. These days, your next customer could literally be right around the corner searching for your services. But if you’re not there on the map, guess what? They’ll find your competitor.
So, how do you make sure your business pops up like a bright pin on the map whenever someone searches nearby? Today, I’m breaking it down for you — step-by-step, no fluff, all action. Buckle up!
Why Google Maps and Apple Maps Matter So Much
Before we get into the “how,” let’s talk about the “why.”
- Mobile Searches Dominate: Over 80% of local searches happen on mobile. Most of these are happening directly on mapping apps.
- Voice Search is Booming: “Hey Siri, find a coffee shop near me” or “Hey Google, closest plumber.” If you’re not listed, voice assistants won’t even know you exist.
- Zero-click Searches: People often don’t even visit websites anymore. They see your business name, reviews, and contact info directly on Maps.
Bottom line: Being listed means more visibility, more calls, more walk-ins, and more leads.
Step 1: Get on Google My Business (aka Google Business Profile)
First up — Google Maps. And for that, you absolutely need a Google Business Profile (formerly known as Google My Business).
How to Set It Up:
- Go to Google Business Profile.
- Sign in with your Google account.
- Enter your business name. If it doesn’t exist, you’ll be prompted to create a new listing.
- Add your physical address. (Don’t worry if you work from home — you can select “Hide my address” and still serve a service area.)
- Select your business category carefully — this helps Google know which searches you should appear in.
- Enter your phone number, website, hours of operation, and a business description.
- Upload quality photos (outside, inside, products, staff, etc.)
- Verify your listing via postcard, phone, or email.
Pro Tip: Your business description is SEO gold. Use keywords naturally, like “best Italian restaurant in Brooklyn” or “affordable dog grooming in Austin.”
Step 2: Get Listed on Apple Maps
Apple Maps is the default map app for all iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks — that’s a HUGE audience you don’t want to miss.
How to Set It Up:
- Go to Apple Business Connect.
- Sign in with your Apple ID.
- Add your business information — be thorough.
- Verify your business using a phone call or official business documents.
- Upload photos, logos, and promotional messages.
Pro Tip: Apple Business Connect allows you to add “Showcases” — these are promos that appear directly on your Apple Maps listing. Use them creatively!
Step 3: Optimize Your Listings Like a Pro
Simply being listed isn’t enough — you’ve got to optimize.
Use Consistent NAP
NAP = Name, Address, Phone Number.
- Make sure these are identical everywhere — website, social media, directories, business cards.
- Even small differences (like “St.” vs. “Street”) can confuse algorithms.
Add High-Quality Photos
- Businesses with photos get 42% more requests for directions and 35% more clicks to websites.
- Include exterior shots, interior shots, products, services, staff, and happy customers.
Choose the Right Business Categories
- Be specific.
- Google allows primary and secondary categories. For example:
Primary: Coffee Shop
Secondary: Bakery, Dessert Shop, Breakfast Restaurant.
Use Keywords Wisely
- Don’t stuff keywords.
- Naturally include phrases your customers search for in your business description, FAQs, and posts.
Step 4: Collect Reviews Like a Rockstar
Reviews are local SEO rocket fuel.
- Politely ask happy customers to leave reviews.
- Make it super easy: Send them a direct link.
- Always respond to reviews — both good and bad.
- Thank your customers, address concerns, and show you care.
Pro Tip: Recent, frequent, and high-quality reviews help boost your rankings.
Step 5: Build Citations and Local Listings
A citation is any mention of your business online. The more consistent and widespread your citations, the more Google and Apple trust your business.
Places to List:
- Yelp
- Bing Places
- Yellow Pages
- TripAdvisor
- Foursquare
- Chamber of Commerce
- Local industry directories
Pro Tip: Use a tool like Moz Local or BrightLocal to manage your citations easily.
Step 6: Use Schema Markup on Your Website
Okay, this one’s a bit geeky but powerful.
- Add Local Business Schema to your website’s code.
- This helps search engines understand your business info better.
- Tools like Google’s Structured Data Markup Helper make it super easy.
Step 7: Post Regular Updates
Google loves fresh content.
- Use Google Business Profile posts to share offers, updates, events, or blog links.
- Apple Maps also lets you showcase promos.
- The more active you are, the more relevant your listing becomes.
Step 8: Monitor and Improve
- Use Google Insights and Apple Business Connect analytics to see how people find and interact with your listing.
- Test different photos, promos, and keywords.
- Stay updated with new features these platforms offer.
Step 9: Mobile-Friendly Website
While most of the traffic may stay on the map listing, many people will click through to your website.
- Make sure your site is mobile-optimized.
- Load fast.
- Have clear contact info.
- Include a clickable phone number and directions.
Step 10: Don’t Forget Voice Search
Voice search is huge for maps.
- Use natural language on your site and listings.
- Include phrases people actually speak, like:
- “Best pizza near me”
- “Open 24 hours”
- “Emergency plumber in Denver”
The Magic Formula
Here’s your quick cheat sheet:
✅ Create profiles on Google & Apple
✅ Use consistent NAP everywhere
✅ Add awesome photos
✅ Collect & respond to reviews
✅ Build citations
✅ Use schema markup
✅ Post updates regularly
✅ Optimize for mobile & voice search
Final Thoughts
In today’s world, local visibility = local credibility.
By following these steps, you’re not just adding your business to a map — you’re planting your flag in the digital world, telling local customers:
“Hey, I’m right here. Come check me out.”
Now go claim your spot, start showing up on Google Maps & Apple Maps, and watch those local leads start rolling in!