How to Win Big on Google Maps in 2026

If you want people to find your business today, you have to show up on Google Maps. You know those top three businesses that pop up when you search for "pizza near me" or "plumber in Chicago"? That’s called the "Local 3-Pack." Getting your business there is like winning the lottery, but it isn’t about luck. It’s about a few smart moves.

Here is exactly how to set up your page and beat the competition this year.

Getting Your Profile Started (The Right Way)

First, go to your Google profile, or Gmail to login, and then go here, even if you don't have a Google account.

Hit the button saying "Start Now".

The Name Game: Use your real business name. Don't try to be sneaky by adding words like "Best" or "Cheap" to the title. Google’s system is much smarter now and will actually suspend your account if your name on Google doesn't match the name on your tax forms or your building sign.

For Service Businesses: If you go to your customers (like a photographer or a house painter) instead of them coming to you, tell Google you are a "Service-Area Business." You’ll give them your home address so they know you're real, but you can hide it from the public. Then, pick the specific towns you actually work in.

The Secret Power of the Weekly Post

Most people set up their page and then never look at it again. That is a huge mistake. Think of your Google page like a social media feed. If you post once a week, you are telling Google, "Hey, I’m still here, I’m active, and I’m taking care of customers."

What should you post? Keep it simple. Take a photo of a project you just finished. Write two sentences about what you did and where you were. This helps with GEO (Geographic Optimization). When you mention a specific neighborhood, Google connects your business to that exact spot on the map.

Talking to the Robots (AEO Tactics)

In 2026, people don't just type into Google; they talk to it. They ask their phones, "Who is the best video producer in town?" This is called AEO (Answer Engine Optimization).

To win at this, you need to provide clear answers.

• The Q&A Section: You can actually post your own questions and answer them! Ask things like, "How much does a basic photo shoot cost?" and then give a helpful answer.

• The "Natural" Review: When you get a review, reply to it. Use the customer’s name and mention what you did. Instead of just saying "Thanks!", say "Thanks, Mike! It was a blast filming that wedding in downtown Miami." This helps the search robots understand exactly what you do and where you do it.

Keep Your Photos Fresh

Google’s AI can now "read" your pictures. If you’re a baker and you upload a photo of a sourdough loaf, Google knows it’s bread without you even typing a label. Upload 3 to 5 new photos every week. It proves you are a real person doing real work.

The Ultimate "Beat the Competition" Checklist

Use this checklist every week to make sure you stay at the top of the list.

Phase 1: The Setup (Do this once)

• [ ] Check your name: It must match your legal business name exactly.

• [ ] Pick your "Primary Category": Choose the one that describes 80% of your work.

• [ ] Set your hours: Make sure they are 100% accurate.

• [ ] Add your services: List every single thing you offer, one by one.

• [ ] The "About" section: Write this like you're talking to a friend. No "corporate speak."

Phase 2: The Weekly Routine (The "Growth" Phase)

• [ ] Post 1 Photo: A "behind the scenes" shot or a finished product.

• [ ] Post 1 Update: Mention a specific neighborhood or town you worked in this week (GEO tactic).

• [ ] Answer 1 Question: Add a new question to your Q&A section that people usually ask you over the phone (AEO tactic).

• [ ] Reply to Reviews: Respond to every single person who left a comment, even if they didn't leave a note.

Phase 3: The Monthly Maintenance

• [ ] Check your info: Ensure your phone number and website link still work perfectly.

• [ ] Look at your "Insights": See how many people called you from the map.

• [ ] Update your photos: Delete any old, blurry, or out-of-date pictures.

If you need help in getting your business listed on your Google Business Profile, please don't hesitate to reach out. If you're not tech savvy, let us at Bodhi Digital Marketing lend a hand and optimize it monthly on autopilot for you.