Google Snack Pack is game changer for small to mid-size businesses that are trying to get on the map. Even though price and quality have a huge influence on consumer action, there is something else they find equally important: convenience. It is no surprise, then, that major search engines like Google are tailoring the user experience by providing location-based search results.
If you can land a spot in Google Snack Pack (the map listings that show up), you are almost guaranteed to see an increase in website traffic and visitor activity. But before we get in to how you can achieve this, let’s cover the basics.
What is a SERP in the SEO World?
SERP is an acronym for Search Engine Results Page – the output given by Google (or another search engine) when you enter in a search query. You will notice that SERPs are a mixture of paid and organic searches, with sponsored ads being anchored at both the top and bottom of the page.
Search engines mine through an incredible amount of data to provide users with the best possible match for their query, and only a few websites or companies will be given prime real estate on the first page. Let’s be honest – most of us don’t scroll through pages of search results when we are looking for something. We put our trust in a search engine, like Google, to narrow down the options and offer us a valuable solution.
How Does Google Snack Pack Fit in?
Google Snack Pack is just one part of a SERP, but it is a BIG part. As previously mentioned, Google will only generate a SERP that includes relative and helpful information. The Snack Pack is a group of three local listings that are considered to be the most valuable to someone from Google’s perspective. That being said, the Snack Pack will be unique for every search that is made based on the keyword(s) and the location of the user.
So, if you search for “Dentist Woodstock” in the Woodstock, GA area, the resulting Google Snack Pack will look something like this:
It’s not hard to see what a listing like that could do for your business, especially if you are still in the growing stages. Potential leads are given instant access to things like:
- Company name and description
- Phone number and hours
- Address and directions
- Customer ratings
- Website
How to Rank in Google Snack Pack
Now that you understand powerful Google Snack Pack is, let’s look at how you can increase your chances of being included. Google uses a number of factors to determine what companies will appear, and it can be challenging to stand out amongst competition. But following these best practices will help you sync with Google’s algorithms and put a spotlight on your local business.
Protect and Grow Your Ratings
Your company rating is a huge factor in determining whether or not Google will recommend your business to someone in the area. As you can see from the image above, all three companies in the snack pack had at least one 5-star rating. Ask former customers or clients to go online and rank your business on Google Maps to strengthen your online reputation. And don’t just stop after you have a few solid reviews – you will want a continuous flow to see real results.
Manage Your Company Profiles Closely
Make sure your profile on Google My Business has up-to-date information, including your location, hours, and products or services offered. You should also ensure it is consistent with other online platforms. If Google is getting mixed messages about your company, it will hurt your chances of getting listed on a SERP and within the Google Snack Pack. In this case, more is better – always provide as much information as you can about your business to show it is reputable.
Use Links to Your Advantage
You should always link to online channels, like your website and social media, to build your authority. The amount of traffic and engagement these channels get will play a big role in how Google ranks you in the end. Not to mention, the more traffic you can drive to your website through a search engine, the better. On the other hand, the presence of any bad links will hurt your rating on Google. You should always make sure that you find and replace any broken links so you don’t miss out on marketing opportunities.
Now that you understand a little more about SEO, what SERPs are, and how Google Snack Pack works, think about what it all means for your business plan. Consider how investing in a professional marketing company can get you on the radar and amplify your digital footprint.
