Tuesday, March 18, 2025
How Local Businesses Get 150% More Clicks on Google (No Ads)

Imagine this: someone nearby searches “facials near me” or “landscapers near me.” They’re ready to book, credit card in hand.
Here’s the reality most business owners don’t realize:
- 🔍 90% of customers use Google to find local businesses.
- 📈 Nearly 70% of clicks go to the top three results.
That means if your business isn’t in those top three spots, you’re practically invisible.
The good news? There’s a proven, repeatable way to climb up the rankings. In this post, we’ll break down the six-step formula that has helped local businesses earn up to 150% more clicks in just 90 days.
Why the Top 3 is Everything
Many business owners are satisfied just being “on the first page.” But here’s the hard truth: if you’re sitting at #7 or #8, hardly anyone will ever click.
- Google shows only the top 3 map results by default.
- Users rarely expand to see more.
- Nearly 70% of all clicks go to the top three — leaving scraps for everyone else.
So if you’re not in the top 3, you’re essentially invisible to the very customers most ready to buy.
👉▶️ Prefer to watch a 1-min video instead? Click here to watch the quick breakdown.
The Six-Step Formula for Breaking Into the Top 3
Here’s the exact framework that has helped our clients dominate Google Maps and search.
1. Pick a Strategic Keyword
Don’t just optimize for your business name. Think about what customers actually type:
- “Botox near me”
- “AC installation San Diego”
- “Tattoo shop North Andover”
Choose one high-value keyword and make it the center of your efforts.
2. Post Keyword-Focused Content Every Four Days
Google loves freshness. Adding posts to your Google Business Profile every few days signals activity and relevance. Make sure your posts:
- Include your target keyword naturally
- Feature photos or offers
- Are consistent over time
3. Add Weekly Q&A Content
Did you know your Google profile has a “Questions & Answers” section? Treat it like an FAQ:
- Add common customer questions
- Write keyword-rich answers
- Update weekly
This improves both customer engagement and Google’s understanding of your services.
4. Secure Weekly Five-Star Reviews (with Keywords)
Reviews aren’t just social proof — they’re ranking signals. Aim for:
- At least one new 5-star review per week
- Ask half of your reviewers to mention your keyword (e.g., “Best med spa experience”)
This builds both credibility and keyword relevance. Our research shows that replying to reviews within 72 hours can also help with your ranking.
5. Upload a Monthly Video
Google rewards content variety, and video is a powerful way to stand out. Even a simple 60-second clip:
- Answering FAQs
- Showing behind-the-scenes
- Highlighting a customer success story
This adds depth and freshness to your profile.
6. Stay Consistent
This is where most businesses fail. A single burst of activity won’t move the needle. But consistent posting, reviews, Q&A, and video updates signal to Google that your business is trustworthy and active. That’s when rankings climb.
Proof It Works
Businesses that follow this six-step formula see:
- 📈 150% more clicks on average within 90 days
- ⭐ More reviews and higher trust
- 🚀 More visibility in the top 3 map pack
It’s not a secret hack — it’s simply what Google rewards: consistency, relevance, and authority. See our customer success stories.
Not Ready to Go All-In? Start Small
If you’re not ready to dive into the full strategy, start with baby steps:
- Use a visual audit map (like the one we provide) to see exactly where you rank in different parts of your city.
- Pick one keyword and start posting regularly about it.
- Focus first on reviews — they deliver the biggest impact fastest.
Even small, consistent actions compound over time.