Why Your Google Business Profile Isn’t Ranking (And How to Fix It in 2025)

Introduction

You’ve claimed your Google Business Profile (GBP, formerly GMB). You’ve added your business name, address, phone number, and a few photos.

But when you search “plumber near me” or “roofer Dallas” — your business doesn’t appear in the Map Pack.

This is one of the most common frustrations SMB owners face in 2025. The good news? There are specific, fixable reasons why your profile isn’t ranking. Let’s break them down — and show you how to get back on the map.

Reason 1: Your Categories Are Wrong (or Missing)

Google uses categories to match searches with businesses.

• If you’re a roofer but only listed as “Contractor,” you’ll miss storm-related searches.

• If you’re a dental clinic but didn’t add “Cosmetic Dentist,” you’ll miss high-value queries.

Fix:

• Log into GBP → add primary category (exact service) + 2–3 secondary categories.

• Example: Roofer (primary) → General Contractor + Gutter Services (secondary).

Reason 2: Inconsistent NAP (Name, Address, Phone)

If your business info doesn’t match across your website, directories, and GMB, Google won’t trust your listing.

• “ABC Plumbing LLC” on GMB vs. “ABC Plumbing” on Yelp.

• Old phone number or multiple addresses listed.

Fix:

• Audit NAP across your website, GMB, Yelp, Facebook, Angi, Houzz, etc.

• Ensure exact match in formatting. (e.g., St. vs Street).

Reason 3: Weak or No Reviews

Reviews aren’t just social proof — they’re a ranking factor.

• Businesses in the top 3 Map Pack have average 4.4 stars and 47+ reviews (BrightLocal, 2024).

Fix:

• Ask every satisfied client for a Google review.

• Automate review requests via email or SMS after service.

• Respond to every review (good or bad).

Reason 4: Missing Photos and Updates

Profiles with photos get 42% more requests for directions and 35% more website clicks (Google).

Fix:

• Upload 10+ high-quality, geo-tagged photos.

• Post weekly updates (offers, events, blog links).

• Keep your profile active → Google rewards engagement.

Reason 5: Technical SEO Issues on Your Website

Your GBP and your website are connected. If your site has:

• Slow load speed

• Missing schema (LocalBusiness, Service, Review)

• No internal links to your service areas

…Google may push you down in Maps.

Fix:

• Run a technical SEO audit (speed, schema, indexing).

• Add local service pages (e.g., Dallas Roofing SEO).

• Link GMB → website and website → GMB consistently.

Reason 6: No Local Keywords in Profile & Content

If your GMB description only says “We provide quality plumbing services,” you’ll miss “near me” searches.

Fix:

• Add geo-modifiers: “Plumbing services in Dallas, TX.”

• Sprinkle local keywords into your services, descriptions, and posts.

• Use the same language on your website.

World-Class Examples → Local SMB Impact

• Starbucks updates every local store profile with photos and seasonal offers. → Contractors can do the same with storm prep updates.

• Domino’s Pizza uses geo-tagged images of every branch. → A plumber in Austin can upload before/after job photos.

• Tesla syncs website + local stores. → A law firm can link GBP to optimized intake pages for faster client conversion.

Scenarios We See Daily

• A roofer in Phoenix isn’t ranking after hailstorms → missing “Roofing Contractor” as category.

• A dentist in Miami loses visibility → inconsistent NAP across directories.

• A law firm in Houston doesn’t show in Maps → website lacks LocalBusiness schema.

All fixed with a Technical SEO + GMB Optimization audit.

ProspireWeb’s Fix Process

At ProspireWeb, we specialize in getting SMBs back on the map:

1. Audit – Categories, NAP, reviews, schema, speed.

2. Fix – Correct categories, NAP cleanup, review workflow.

3. Optimize – Add schema, geo-tagged content, local keywords.

4. Monitor – Track calls, clicks, and rankings.