Google Maps is an essential tool for travellers searching for accommodation, and ranking higher can significantly improve your hotel’s visibility. Whether guests are searching for hotels near their location or planning a future trip, you want your hotel to be the top choice. In this guide, we will walk you through actionable steps you can take to ensure your hotel ranks higher on Google Maps so it can be easily found by potential guests at the right time. Check this out.
The foundation of ranking well on Google Maps begins with Google Business Profile. If you have not claimed your listing yet, you are missing out on one of the most powerful free tools for improving your hotel’s visibility.
If you manage a hotel named “Kuromie Resort” in Pulau Pangkor, search for it on Google Maps. If a listing appears but isn’t managed by you, claim it to start optimizing. If no listing exists, create a new one via the Google My Business website. There is a step-by-step guide here on how to create a new business listing and claim it on Google.
Having a verified listing is only the first step. The next step is to fully complete your business profile to ensure it stands out to both Google and potential guests.
Photos play a huge role in attracting potential guests and improving your ranking. Listings with quality visuals perform better because they help users visualize their experience, increasing the chances of engagement and booking.
Google considers reviews a key ranking factor on Google Maps. Encourage satisfied guests to leave positive reviews and make it a habit to respond to each review. This not only helps with ranking but also builds trust with potential customers.
To make collecting feedback more efficient, many hotels use automated systems that send surveys to guests at key moments during their stay. For example, Softinn’s Smart Review System helps hoteliers gather actionable feedback in two stages:
Read also: Hoteliers Guide to Collect Feedback from Guests
Including local keywords in your business description and updates is essential for ranking higher in local searches. Travellers often search for hotels near popular landmarks or attractions, so optimize your listing to appear in these searches.
Keeping your Google Business listing active with regular updates is essential for maintaining visibility and engagement. Google’s post feature allows you to share timely information, promotions, and announcements, which not only makes your listing more appealing but also signals to Google that your business is active and relevant.
Ideas for Engaging Posts:
One effective way to increase direct bookings and enhance your hotel’s visibility is by utilizing the Google Free Booking Link feature. This tool allows potential guests to book directly through your Google Business listing, making it easier for them to secure a reservation while providing you with greater control over your bookings.
When potential guests search on Google Maps, the Free Booking Link displays your rates alongside those from OTAs, often placing your direct booking engine at the top of search results. It also includes an official website tag, instilling trust and confidence in bookings. This increased engagement signals to Google that your listing is relevant, helping improve your rankings on Google Maps while driving more direct bookings.
Click to get Softinn Booking Engine with Google Free Booking Link services.
After optimizing your listing, use Google My Business Insights to track performance. These insights show how many users viewed your listing, where they’re coming from, and how they’re engaging with your business.
Ranking higher on Google Maps is about more than just creating a listing—it is about actively managing and optimizing your hotel’s presence. From completing your profile to engaging with reviews, each step plays a critical role in improving your ranking. By following these steps, your hotel can stand out to potential guests and attract more direct bookings.