Published by NewsPR Today | July 2025
Ever wonder how some local businesses always seem to be the first ones you see on Google? It’s not just luck. Google has a way of picking favourites, and they’ve recently made it clearer how you can become one of them.
Here’s the simple truth about getting noticed.
What Google Cares About Now
When someone searches for a business like yours, Google asks three questions:
- Is this business a good match? (Relevance)
- Is it close by? (Distance)
- Is it popular and trustworthy? (Prominence)
That last one—prominence—is where the game has changed. Forget all the confusing tech jargon. Google now says your reputation comes down to two simple things: links to your website from other sites, and reviews from your customers on Google.
Essentially, Google is telling us to focus on what matters most: what other people are saying about you.
Why You Should Care
When you’re at the top of Google Maps, you’re the first choice for people searching nearby. That means more calls, more visits, and more sales. For any local business, from a cosy café to a busy salon, being easily found online can be the difference between a quiet day and a full house.
Related Article: Want People to Find Your Site? It’s About Links!
Your Simple Plan to Get to the Top
Here’s how you can start climbing the ranks, one small step at a time.
1. Get People Talking About You Online (Links)
Think of a link from another website as a good word from a neighbour. When local blogs, news sites, or business directories point to your website, Google thinks, “Hey, this place must be important!”
Start by listing your business on trusted sites like Yelp, your local Chamber of Commerce, or other community directories. If you know a local blogger, ask if they’d be willing to mention you. And if you don’t have a website, don’t sweat it! A simple one-page site with your name, address, and phone number is all you need to get started.
2. Turn Happy Customers into Your Biggest Fans (Reviews) ⭐
Reviews are pure gold. They show Google (and new customers) that people love what you do. The key is to make it easy and natural to ask.
After a customer has a great experience, you could say something like:
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“So glad you loved it! If you have a second, a quick review on Google would mean the world to us.”
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“Thanks for stopping by! We’d be so grateful if you could share your experience online.”
Make sure to reply to every review, too. A simple “Thanks for the love, Priya! Come back soon!” shows you’re listening and you care. And if you get a tough review? A polite “Sorry for the trouble, Raj. We appreciate the feedback and will work on it” can turn a negative into a positive.
3. Keep Your Digital Front Door Looking Fresh
Your Google Business Profile is your online storefront. Keep it tidy! Check in every so often to make sure your hours, address, and phone number are correct. Add new photos of your products, your team, or even your happy customers. You can also post little updates, like “Big sale this weekend!” to show people you’re active and give them a reason to stop by.
You’ve Got This!
Google’s new focus is a gift to small businesses. It’s not about being a tech wizard; it’s about building a great reputation.
Start today. Ask one customer for a review. Add a new photo to your profile. These small, simple actions build trust over time and help bring more neighbours right to your door.
