The Google 3-Pack is a way Google displays search results when users make queries with local intent. Within the Pack are three businesses, a map of where they’re located, and basic information about the businesses. The Pack sits underneath the paid ads, but above the organic search results. It’s intended to make it easier for users to find the business they’re looking for quickly, and it has.
Now, instead of scrolling through even one page of results, a user simply has to look at the top three spots. Once they find a business they think can help, they’ll click on the link. It’s then that they are taken to a listing of 20 businesses, with the business they chose sitting in the top spot. From there the user can visit the website, call the business, or get directions.
Google’s 3-Pack is a very coveted spot to be in for businesses. When Google has gone to the trouble of sectioning off what it considers to be the best businesses, why would a user continue looking any further? However, not just any business can make it into the 3-Pack.
First, the business must have a Google My Business (GMB) listing. This is where Google mainly pulls its information from for the business. Then, the listing must be optimized to get the attention of Google. The search engine only wants to return relevant results and if they don’t think a business will be helpful, they’ll find another that is.
So, how do you get your business categorized as relevant by Google? You have to optimize both your GMB listing and your website. This is done by employing a number of SEO tactics and incorporating as much as you can into your listing, including photos and reviews.
Getting your business into the 3-Pack is a great feeling. To continue that feeling, your GMB listing and website must be regularly monitored to ensure you don’t drop out of the 3-Pack.
If you would like a step-by step instruction on how to claim/update your Google My Business listing, click here to download a step-by-step PDF guide.
Of course, if you would like us to do claim your listing on your behalf, please contact us via our contact page.
Regards,
Andrew Parsons
andrew@digitalmediapal.com