Most customers discover local businesses online before they ever step through the door, and Google plays a major role in that first impression. Whether they’re searching for a nearby coffee shop or the best boutique in town, businesses that appear at the top of Google Maps results have a clear advantage. If your business isn’t showing up where people are looking, you’re missing valuable opportunities to attract new customers.

A presence on Google Maps helps customers find you, but standing out ensures they choose you. Let’s explore the most effective strategies to improve your rankings, increase engagement, and drive more foot traffic.

Why Google Maps is Essential for Local Businesses

If your business isn’t showing up when people search for “coffee shop near me” or “best salons in [your city]”, you’re missing out on potential customers. 

Here’s why Google Maps matters:

  • Nearly half of all Google searches (46%) are for local information.

  • 76% of users who search for a nearby business visit within 24 hours.

  • Businesses with a complete Google Business Profile are 2.7x more likely to be considered reputable.

A well-optimized Google Maps listing ensures that customers find your business at the exact moment they’re looking for what you offer.

How to Optimize Your Google Business Profile

To maximize your presence on Google Maps, your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) must be complete, up-to-date, and engaging. Follow these steps:

  • Claim & Verify Your Listing – Visit Google Business Profile and claim your business. Verification ensures you control the information customers see.

  • Provide Accurate Business Information – Ensure your name, address, phone number (NAP), website, hours, and services are correct and consistent across all platforms.

  • Add High-Quality Photos & Videos – Businesses with images receive 42% more requests for directions and 35% more clicks to their website than those without.

  • Encourage & Respond to Reviews – Positive reviews boost credibility and rankings. Replying to all feedback—good or bad—demonstrates responsiveness and builds trust.

  • Use Google Posts to Share Updates – Treat your Google Business Profile like a social media page by posting promotions, news, and upcoming events.

  • Enable Messaging & Booking Features – Let customers reach you directly with Google’s chat and appointment booking options.

Expanding Beyond Google Maps with Location-Based Marketing

While Google Maps is critical, location-based marketing can further increase visibility, foot traffic, and engagement. 

Consider these additional tactics:

  • Leverage Other Map Services – Not everyone uses Google Maps. Add your business to Apple Maps, Waze, and Bing Places to reach a broader audience.

  • Get Listed in Local Directories – Sites like Yelp, TripAdvisor, and Nextdoor help potential customers find businesses in their area.

  • Run Geo-Targeted Ads – Use Google Ads, Facebook Ads, or Instagram promotions to target customers in specific locations.

  • Encourage Location Tagging – Ask customers to tag your business in Instagram stories, Facebook check-ins, and TikTok videos to increase visibility.

How Buhz is Revolutionizing Local Discovery

Google Maps helps customers find businesses, but it doesn’t always capture their personality. Buhz, a meaningful ad placement mapping app, takes discovery to the next level.

Instead of relying on static images and text, Buhz allows businesses to:

  • Showcase their brand through engaging, short-form video content.

  • Interact with customers in real-time by posting updates, promotions, and behind-the-scenes clips.

  • Stand out from competitors by offering a dynamic, visual way for people to discover local businesses.

For businesses looking to increase visibility and customer engagement, combining Google Maps optimization with Buhz’s video mapping technology offers an innovative solution.

Getting Found is Only the Beginning

Online discovery isn’t just about being listed—it’s about standing out. A well-optimized Google Business Profile puts you on the map, but pairing it with location-based marketing and engaging video content ensures customers don’t just find you—they choose you.

The digital landscape is competitive, but businesses that take control of their online presence can turn searches into visits, visits into customers, and customers into loyal advocates.


After many years in construction and interior design in Colorado, Rebecca switched careers, joining a family business and entering marketing in South Carolina. That career change inspired the idea of Buhz, which Rebecca and her team have been working to get going ever since. With an appreciation of small businesses and what they mean to their community, Rebecca has been a champion for their success and hopes that Buhz can be a part of them being able to tell their story.  When she is not working on Buhz and marketing, Rebecca enjoys quiet time outdoors, where she feels most at home.