10 Ways to Rank in Richmonds Map Pack Using Local SEO ftimg
July 14, 2025
By Claire Evan

10 Ways to Rank in Richmond’s Map Pack Using Local SEO

To appear in Richmond’s Google Map Pack (the top 3 local business results shown with a map), you need a focused local SEO strategy. Here’s how you can earn that spot:

1. Claim and Optimize Your Google Business Profile

Your Google Business Profile (GBP) is the core of Map Pack visibility.

  • Use your exact business name (no keywords unless it’s legal).
  • List your correct address, local phone number, and business hours.
  • Choose the most relevant primary and secondary categories (e.g., Personal Injury Attorney, HVAC Contractor).
  • Add a detailed business description with local keywords like “Richmond VA.”
  • Upload high-quality photos regularly.

2. Get More Local Reviews (and Respond to Them)

Reviews heavily influence local rankings and click-throughs.

  • Ask every satisfied customer to leave a Google review.
  • Use automated follow-ups or SMS after service to request reviews.
  • Always respond, thank people, and address concerns.

Example:
 “Thanks, Sarah! We’re glad we could help with your HVAC system in The Fan District!”

3. Build Local Citations

Citations are listings of your NAP (Name, Address, Phone number) on directories.

  • Ensure consistency across all platforms: Yelp, BBB, YellowPages, Apple Maps, Bing Places, etc.
  • Use local chambers, newspapers, and industry directories.
  • Submit your site to Virginia and Richmond-specific business directories.

4. Use Localized Website Content

Optimize your site for Richmond-specific searches.

  • Create landing pages for neighborhoods (Scott’s Addition, Church Hill, Short Pump).
  • Use keywords like “Richmond personal injury lawyer” or “plumber near Carytown.”
  • Embed a Google Map of your location on your contact page.
  • Add local schema markup (especially LocalBusiness schema).

5. Earn Backlinks From Local Sites

Google trusts businesses supported by other local sites.

  • Partner with Richmond nonprofits or sponsor local events.
  • Pitch local bloggers or publications for features.
  • Write guest posts for community websites or business associations.

6. Post Regularly on Your Google Business Profile

Most businesses don’t take advantage of this opportunity.

  • Share updates, events, blog links, and offers using the “Posts” feature.
  • Include CTAs like “Call Now,” “Book Online,” or “Learn More.”

7. Target Service Areas Strategically

If you serve beyond your physical location:

  • Add Service Area settings in GBP (e.g., Henrico, Chesterfield, Midlothian).
  • Mention surrounding neighborhoods and suburbs naturally in your content.

8. Optimize for Mobile and Speed

Over 60% of local searches happen on mobile. If your site loads slowly or looks bad on phones, you’re hurting your chances.

  • Use compressed images, fast hosting, and mobile-friendly design.
  • Test your site speed with PageSpeed Insights.

9. Use Local Keywords in Anchor Text and Headers

Help Google associate your business with Richmond.

  • Example H1: “Trusted HVAC Services in Richmond, VA”
  • Example anchor text: “See why our Church Hill clients trust us.”

10. Track and Adjust With Data

Use:

Want to see your business in Richmond’s Map Pack?

Let FreshMove Media help you get there. Contact us today to start growing your local visibility and driving more customers your way.

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