Why Google Reviews Matter Even More for Local Small Business

Here’s some important information you need to know about the traffic that comes into your store. An important source of traffic for your local business is Google Maps. Google Maps is no longer just about distance and directions. Many consumers now go straight to Google Maps to search for local products or services.

Did you know that the Google Maps algorithm can return higher-rated businesses over nearby businesses when customers search with local intent? Your business could be further away from a customer but higher up in the search results in Google Maps if you have plenty of highly rated reviews.

Google also recently updated its map search layout to show ratings and reviews much more prominently. Your average rating is the first fact about your business that’s displayed to potential customers, before any other information.

The more positive ratings you can capture, the better chance you have of getting a customer’s attention and drawing them into your store from Google Maps. Google’s search algorithms are complex, but it’s clear that your Google Reviews have a huge impact on your standing with Google Maps local search results.