More so than ever before. Google search has become incredibly local in nature for many searches.

While you don't have to use the post functions, there's some evidence that those that do so see a little lift. It's also a good way to stand out. You take up more real estate in the search results when your post shows up along with your business listing.

Reviews are also very important these days. Put plenty of effort into getting reviews on both Google and Facebook (Google also factors Facebook reviews into rankings) and Yelp to a lesser degree. Make sure to respond to all reviews too. A simple thanks to the person can help build that relationship and make them more likely to recommend you. If it's a negative review, address it. People like to see that a business is willing to try to fix things when they're not right or at least address it in some way.

I'd recommend going through each section in GMB (each of the tabs on the left) and making sure everything is filled out as completely as possible. The more you can give Google about your business, the better. Then ever month or so I'd go back in and make sure your info like address and other contact stuff is right as people often submit corrections that are wrong.

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Update for 2024: This is a general list that pertains to all businesses: Fill out all the fields. The more information you provide to Google the more it will trust your listing. Create engagement points on the listing by uploading images/videos and creating Posts. Encourage your customers to upload images as well. Get reviews. Get reviews. Get reviews. Reply to reviews. Be professional when replying, especially to negative reviews. Check the listing for changes at least once a month. Google sometimes automatically adds, changes, or removes information. Doing all these things does not mean you will rank well. There are many other factors involved in improving the visibility of a listing. If you would like a professional review of your listing or website, feel free to reach out for a near me optimization strategy. More on reddit.com

I agree, I noticed also, if I use the site on my pc, I could EDIT the photo in an update post, I sometimes need to crop bottom on my pics.

but no option to edit photo in search/maps when creating a post there. you upload the image to the post and that's it not cropping tool, I mentioned this to google when they asked how I like the new way to post.

I wish they wouldn't do this.

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