Before we make a single change to a client’s Google Business Profile, we run it through the same 10-point checklist. Most ranking problems trace back to one of these:
- Primary category matches the single most important thing you do.
- Secondary categories are filled out and relevant.
- Business name matches your storefront exactly — no keyword stuffing.
- Service areas are set correctly for service-area businesses.
- Hours are accurate, including holiday hours.
- Photos are recent, varied, and geotagged where possible.
- Products/services are listed with descriptions.
- Google Posts are published at least weekly.
- Reviews are being requested and responded to.
- NAP consistency (name, address, phone) matches across the web.
If you’re missing more than two or three of these, that’s usually enough to explain a weak map pack position.