If you run a local small business, and you’re wondering whether Google Maps is still relevant in 2025 — let me clear it up right now:
Yes. It’s absolutely essential.
While Google is busy rolling out AI Overviews, Search Generative Experiences, and all kinds of new features, Google Maps continues to be one of the most powerful ways to increase your visibility and get local traffic that converts.
And yet… I still see so many small business owners either neglecting their Google Business Profile or failing to optimise it properly. That’s leaving money on the table.
So let’s talk about why Google Maps still matters — and what you can do to make sure you show up where your customers are searching.
Why Google Maps Still Matters in 2025
When someone searches “best electrician near me”, “SEO consultant Sunshine Coast”, or “hairdresser open now”, what do they see?
That big map with three listings at the top — also called the Local Pack.
Those top 3 spots get the bulk of the clicks — and they don’t just attract traffic. They attract people who are ready to buy, book, or call.
That’s why Google Maps traffic converts. These users are:
✅ Local
✅ Already looking for a solution
✅ Often comparing reviews and photos before making a decision
Even as Google’s search features evolve, Maps remains the default discovery tool for local services, restaurants, tradies, and retail shops.
If you’re not visible there, you’re invisible to a huge portion of your potential customers.
What You Need to Show Up in Google Maps
Getting listed in Google Maps isn’t hard. But getting into the top 3 spots (Map Pack) takes a bit more strategy.
Here’s what matters most:
1. Claim and Optimise Your Google Business Profile
This is non-negotiable. If you haven’t claimed your business yet, do it at google.com/business. Then:
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Fill out every section
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Add high-quality, recent photos
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List all your services (and keep them updated)
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Add your business hours — including special hours
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Include a strong, keyword-rich business description
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Use consistent name, address, and phone number (NAP) across all platforms
2. Get Real Local Reviews — Regularly
Google loves to recommend businesses that people trust. That’s why reviews carry so much weight in map rankings.
Encourage happy customers to leave reviews.
Respond to every review — good or bad.
Use keywords naturally in your replies when possible.
3. Post Updates and Offers
Just like a social media feed, your Google Business Profile has a “Posts” feature.
Use it to:
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Share events or promotions
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Announce new services
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Highlight seasonal tips
These updates signal to Google (and your customers) that your business is active and relevant.
4. Use Location-Based Keywords
Throughout your listing — in the description, services, and posts — include relevant keywords tied to your location.
Examples:
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“Electrician in Caloundra”
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“Custom cakes Sunshine Coast”
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“SEO consulting for Brisbane small businesses”
What Happens If You Don’t Optimise for Maps?
If your competitors have optimised profiles and you don’t, you’re already at a disadvantage.
Google won’t guess. If your information is outdated, incomplete, or inconsistent — it will simply show someone else.
You’ll miss out on:
❌ Local visibility
❌ Call and direction requests
❌ Website traffic from high-intent users
❌ Walk-ins or bookings
And in a local market, those missed opportunities stack up quickly.
Bonus: Showing Up in AI Overviews and Google Maps
Here’s where things get exciting…
We know Google is moving toward AI-generated answers and overviews. But many of those overviews pull information from your Google Business Profile — especially for local queries.
That means:
✔️ Optimising your GBP doesn’t just help with Maps
✔️ It also makes you more visible in AI-powered search results
Double the visibility. Zero extra cost.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a local small business owner, your Google Maps presence is just as important now as it’s ever been — maybe even more.
It’s the first place people look. It’s where they compare. And it’s often where they make a decision.
✅ Optimise your Google Business Profile
✅ Keep it up to date
✅ Treat it like your storefront online
Because in 2025, ranking higher on Google and increasing visibility isn’t just about your website — it’s about being found wherever your customers are searching.
Need help auditing your listing or working your way into the map pack? Just reach out — I’m here to help.
Cheers,
Ashley
