Google Local - How does it work?

[cristinabarkerjones]

Sometimes I see only one local result for certain keywords. Sometimes I see up to seven results for another query. Another time I don't see any results...

How does Google determine which queries deserve 0,1,2,3 or 7 local results on the map?
How can I improve the local results for my website?
How do I check the current local ranking of my website, if it doesn't appear among the top results shown for the query?

Thank you in advance!

 

[Alby10]

There are various factors which contribute to the position with Google local results, but usually the following ones seem to be the most relevant:

1) Geographical position of the business in relation to the area searched
2) Number and quality of citations (NAP - Name, Address & Phone) listed - These can be directories, blogs, ads etc
3) Reviews - Google and others

This is assuming that you have a verified G+ listing as well and your website lists the NAP info.

 

[JonnyMP]

In addition to what was already suggested, you should also establish your business locally on other review websites. Get reviews from your customers and always include local citation information including full address of business, phone number, site url and site email so that your local customers will know how to contact you. This will go a long way toward establishing your credibility with Google as the local expert for that niche (keyword).

 

[StevePoster]

You need to optimize the site page according to the targeted location like the specific area. Citations and listings as well as establishing your site reputation by building relationship with the targeted audience.

 

[FreeRangeWeb]

Here are the most important factors:
1) A properly optimised website; with your keywords embedded in the content.
2) Quality backlinks pointing to your website.
3) A verified Google+ Business Listing
4) Google reviews (but also try and get reviews on other quality sites too).

 

[zigojacko]

What has failed to be mentioned in the above replies is that a local pack of results being triggered by keyword terms in organic search is determined by the search volume of those terms.

 

[OldWelshGuy]

And everyone else ignored the question

As Zigo says above, the number of local results shown (if any) is done algorithmically, and is based on Search volume and available local businesses.

 

[UKSBD]

It's also based on where the searcher is.
Some people may see local listings that others don't.

 

[OldWelshGuy]

Yep, which infuriates me as Google is convinced I am anywhere from Bristol to Worcester.

 

[Tin]

I'm often in London, York, Birmingham and North Wales according to Google - when I live in Devon. Annoying to say the least!

 

[OldWelshGuy]

The question people should be asking themselves of course is , " if Google doesn't really know where I am, then how can it properly serve up adverts to people within x miles of the town I specify " the answer of course is it can't really.

 

[UKSBD]

I tend to reset my location depending on what I am looking for.

i.e.

If I was looking for a carpenter in Warwick, I would 1st set my location to Warwick before searching.

By default I set it to UK https://plus.google.com/local/s/I

 

[cristinabarkerjones]

I tend to reset my location depending on what I am looking for.

i.e.

If I was looking for a carpenter in Warwick, I would 1st set my location to Warwick before searching.

By default I set it to UK https://plus.google.com/local/s/I

Great idea, but do you really believe Google doesn't know where you are?

 

[OldWelshGuy]

Google don't have a clue where you are. as I said previously.

 

[mediaguy35]

Local advertising is too small a net to cast.

I suspect Google local works on the same lines, its an online publishing site, without the content. Eg: adspace might be free, but useless is uselsss - even if it was paid, I can think of better ways to spend the cash, as branded, big names don't always deliver.....