Guide · updated on 6 October 2026
Choose useful keywords for your Google Maps rank scans
A useful keyword describes what a new customer wants, rather than just your business name.
Start with the service customers seek
For example: bakery, barber, emergency plumber or Italian restaurant. Choose the words customers use for your specific offer.
Keep the location test separate
The grid already represents separate search locations. Avoid mixing a business-name search with a broad discovery query when comparing performance.
Compare related searches
The full report compares up to three keywords side by side; monitoring supports five. Similar terms can produce different neighbourhood maps.
Use a consistent baseline
Retain the same keyword and radius for follow-up scans. Category and relevance guidance comes from Google’s local ranking guidance.
More guides
- Geo-grid scans: see your Google Maps rank, street by street
- The Google local pack: why the first three listings matter
- Improve your Google Maps listing with a measurable action plan
- Why your business is missing from Google Maps results
By industry: restaurants, bakeries, hair salons, bars, plumbers, car repair shops, beauty salons, estate agencies.