As of 2025, Google Business Profile prominence in local results ranking has replaced organic web search as the primary driver for attracting new customers. In fact, any business-related Google search will now display local results ranking in a “3-Pack” above all of the relevant websites. The Google Local Pack (also known as the Local 3-Pack, Google Map Pack, and Google Snack Pack) is the block of three local business listings that appear at the top of Google search results for location-based searches. These listings are shown above the organic search results and immediately below the map, making them the most prominent local search real estate on the page.
One of the most impactful strategies for attracting nearby customers is Local SEO, a digital marketing approach that helps businesses rank prominently on Google’s local search results, particularly in the coveted Google 3-Pack. Olin Coles is a Reno-based website designer and SEO consultant who specializes in helping businesses optimize their online presence. Through a combination of search-optimized website design, Google Business Profile optimization, and secure web hosting, Local SEO Website Design can elevate your visibility and drive more qualified leads straight to your door.
A Google Business Profile is not optional – it’s a fundamental part of local SEO and digital visibility. For local businesses in Reno and beyond, being properly listed on Google with an optimized profile can mean the difference between thriving or being overlooked. If you haven’t claimed or optimized your Google Business Profile, now is the time. Olin Coles at Local SEO Website Design helps local businesses manage and enhance their presence on Google, ensuring that your profile works as a powerful lead-generation tool. From setup and verification to keyword optimization and photo curation, Olin ensures your profile is aligned with your growth goals and perfectly positioned to earn a top spot in local search results.
Google Local SEO Explained
Local SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is the process of optimizing a business’s online presence to attract more traffic from relevant local searches. These searches, now typically done from a mobile device, usually contain location-specific terms or phrases like:
When a potential customer performs one of these searches, Google displays a Local Map Pack (or 3-Pack), which is a prominent listing of the top three businesses that match the user’s intent and location. Appearing in this short list can mean the difference between getting noticed by new customers or being invisible to the consumer world.
Local SEO Focuses On:
- Google Business Profile (GBP) optimization
- Local citations and directory listings
- Customer reviews and reputation management
- On-page SEO with geographic targeting
- Mobile-friendly and fast-loading websites
Why Does Local SEO Matter?
A strong local SEO strategy not only increases your online visibility but also builds trust and credibility within your community. Local SEO is essential for service-based businesses, brick-and-mortar retailers, professionals, and contractors who depend on customers from a specific geographic area. According to 2025 Google Analytics data:
- 46% of all searches have local intent.
- 88% of people who conduct a local search visit or call a business within 24 hours.
- 78% of mobile local searches result in an offline purchase.
The Power of the Google 3-Pack
The Google 3-Pack is the trio of business listings that appear on the map section of local results ranking. These are prime real estate on the search engine results page (SERP), and being featured here drastically increases your chances of getting a click, call, or visit. To appear in the 3-Pack, your business must meet several criteria, including:
- Proximity to the searcher
- Relevance to the search query
- Prominence and trust signals (like reviews and citations)
Local results ranking is based on relevance, distance, and prominence
Local results ranking are based primarily on relevance, distance, and prominence. A combination of these factors helps Google find the best match for each search. For example, Google algorithms might decide that a business that’s farther away from your location is more likely to have what you’re looking for than a business that’s closer, and therefore rank it higher in local results. Google offers these tips to improve your local ranking.
Relevance refers to how well a local Google Business Profile matches what someone is searching for. Add complete and detailed business information into your GBP to help Google better understand your business and match your profile to relevant searches. Distance considers how far each potential search result is from the location term used in a search. If a user doesn’t specify a location in their search, Google will calculate distance based on what they know about the user’s location. Prominence refers to how well known a business is. Some places are more prominent in the offline world, and Google search results try to reflect this in local ranking. For example, famous museums, landmark hotels, or well-known store brands are also likely to be prominent in local search results.
Prominence is also based on information that Google has about a business, from across the web, like links, articles, and directories. Google review count and review score factor into local search ranking. More reviews and positive ratings can improve your business’ local ranking. Your position in web results is also a factor, so search engine optimization (SEO) best practices still apply.
How To Improve Google Business Local Results Ranking
Below are the most effective strategies that Olin Coles uses to help businesses rise to the top of Google Business local results ranking:
#1: Google Business Profile Optimization
Your Google Business Profile is your digital storefront. Olin ensures your profile is fully optimized with:
- Accurate NAP (Name, Address, Phone Number)
- Business hours and service areas
- High-quality photos and logo
- Keyword-rich business descriptions
- Regular updates and posts
- Product and service listings
#2: Search-Optimized WordPress Website Design
A fast, mobile-friendly (responsive), and search-optimized website is the foundation of local SEO success. Olin builds WordPress websites that:
- Load quickly on all devices
- Are secured with HTTPS
- Include schema markup for local business
- Use geographic keywords in page titles, meta descriptions, and content
- Feature internal links and localized landing pages
On-Site Local SEO Enhancements
Google has mentioned that website SEO improves local results ranking. Understanding how critically relevant this is for your website, Olin:
- Creates city or neighborhood-specific service pages
- Uses local schema to help search engines understand your content
- Adds maps, testimonials, and calls-to-action targeting your service area
#3: Citation and Directory Listings
Olin submits your business information to reputable directories and local aggregators to establish NAP consistency across the web. This helps Google validate your business’s legitimacy and boosts trust. Common directories include:
- Bing Places
- Apple Maps
- Yelp
- Yellow Pages
- Better Business Bureau
- Local Chamber of Commerce
#4: Customer Review Strategy
Positive Google reviews are a leading local results ranking factor, and essential for reaching top position. Olin develops and provides a tailored review generation strategy that encourages satisfied customers to leave high-quality, keyword-rich feedback. Reviews that answer who, what, and where will always help boost a businesses Google Business Profile into higher local results ranking.
#5: Fast, Secure, and Reliable Web Hosting
Page loading speed is a ranking factor worth considering. Additionally, website uptime and security are also ranking factors. Olin’s secure hosting solutions include:
- Fast page load speeds
- SSL encryption
- Daily backups
- 99.99% uptime reliability
The All-Powerful Google Business Profile
A Google Business Profile (formerly known as Google My Business) is a free tool offered by Google that allows businesses to manage how their company appears in local results ranking and on Google Maps. It acts as a digital storefront, giving potential customers instant access to key business information when they search for services or products in their area. A Google Business Profile is a listing that appears when someone searches for a business or a related keyword on Google Search or Google Maps. Having a Google Business Profile is absolutely essential for businesses that serve customers at a physical location or within a local service area. Here’s why:
Visibility in Local Search Results
Google uses the information from your profile to determine whether your business is relevant to a user’s search. If your profile is optimized and accurate, you’re more likely to show up in:
- The Local 3-Pack (top three local results ranking shown in search)
- The Local Finder (the extended list after clicking “More places”)
- Google Maps search results
- Voice search responses on Google Assistant-enabled devices
Appear on Google Maps
When customers search for directions or nearby services on Google Maps, your business must have an active profile to be listed. Without a Google Business Profile, your company will not appear on Maps, even if your website is highly ranked. Google Maps visibility is especially important for businesses with physical locations, such as restaurants, clinics, auto shops, or retail stores. Google Maps helps users:
- Navigate to your location
- See your hours of operation
- Call or message you directly
- Read reviews and view photos
- Determine how close you are to them
Builds Trust and Authority
A well-maintained Google Business Profile establishes credibility. Google reviews, photos, and accurate information tell potential customers that your business is legitimate, responsive, and active. Verified profiles with regular updates and positive reviews are more likely to rank higher in local results and gain customer trust faster than those with little or no online presence.
Direct Engagement With Customers
The easier it is for customers to interact with your business, the more likely they are to convert into paying clients. Your Google Business Profile enables customers to take action right from search results:
- Call your business with one tap
- Visit your website
- Ask questions
- Book appointments
- View special offers or events
- Leave or read reviews
Provides Insights and Analytics
Google Business Profile includes built-in performance insights that help business owners understand how customers find and interact with their listing. These insights are crucial for refining your local marketing strategies. You can see:
- How many people found you via search or maps
- The keywords they used
- How many called or visited your site
- How many requested directions
Supports Local SEO Strategy
Optimizing your profile with accurate categories, keywords, photos, and posts significantly improves your ranking potential. Google uses your profile content, combined with your website and other citations, to determine local results ranking factors such as:
- Relevance: How closely your profile matches a search query
- Distance: How close your business is to the searcher’s location
- Prominence: How well-known your business is online (reviews, links, mentions)
Work With A Local SEO Expert in Reno
If you’re a local business in Reno, Sparks, Carson City, or the surrounding Northern Nevada area, working with a nearby expert gives you the advantage of regional knowledge. Olin Coles understands the local market and builds customized SEO solutions that meet your specific needs. Unlike big-box agencies that push clients into monthly contracts before they’re forgotten, Olin offers focused long-term strategies and only charges for billable work completed. Your business gets the attention it deserves to succeed in local search, and at a fair price.
Ready to improve your local results ranking and drive more leads? Contact Olin for a free consultation and take the first step toward dominating local search. Local SEO Website Design is more than just websites—it’s about bringing customers to your business through smart, strategic search optimization. Whether you’re a contractor, consultant, medical provider, or retail shop, Olin Coles can help you claim your spot in the Google 3-Pack. Contact Olin with your project today: Call 775-544-6563 or Secure Email.