What is the 7-pack and how can I get into it?

No, it’s not a new term for flat and fabulous abs! Google’s 7-pack is basically the search results that highlight the business name, address, phone number (NAP) and local area map in a prominent block that is set-apart and distinct from other listings on page one of Google. The listings in this block are referred to by the best search marketing agencies as the 7-pack because there are generally seven results in this block, but this is not always the case. Sometimes the 7-pack may be smaller simply because the narrower your search or more focused, the less results and smaller the pack.

The ultimate goal of Google’s 7, 3 or however many pack is to deliver the best search experience for users. So what does this mean for you? Simply put, if you aren’t part of the 7-pack, you aren’t being found by potential customers. Take for example a search for keywords “top interactive marketing agency in scottsdale”, which brings up just seven results in the 7-pack. Yet, there are over 50 digital ad agencies in Scottsdale. So the big question business owners are faced with is how to get included in this rather illusive block of listings? Well for starters, it’s not easy, but here are a few tips to do so!

Focus on Local SEO

Pay close attention to local search directories such as Manta, Yelp, Superpages and Yellowpages, because it’s proven that a stable name, address and phone number will help the search giant learn more about your business, and hence rank them better.

Optimize your Google+ Page

There are typically two parts to the Google+ platform – Google Map listings and Google+ listings, which are visible to everyone. New pages will be linked automatically when setup through the Google My Business Platform, whereas the older G+ Local Profiles or G+ pages may not be. To check if you’re indeed in the spotlight, simply log into your Google My Business Dashboard, click on the page you’d like to manage and then on settings. If you’re not linked to Google Maps, simply check the box to link it.
The next step is to optimize the two listings and Google makes this easier than ever! Map Maker allows you to edit your NAP (name, address, phone number) data as well as map categories and the ability to edit or remove any inaccurate information. Once you’ve got this out of the way, you will need to post content just as you would do with any other social networking site because at its heart Google+ is just that – social networking platform. Expert digital marketers claim that the quality of your Google+ posts and their frequency is a key ranking factor for the 7-pack.

Other Things to Consider

Make sure you participate in social media along with Google+, have a business website and ensure that your location is included in your site’s meta descriptions.

If you need help, our digital strategist is on hand to help you create a digital advertising campaign or effective marketing strategies for your business.