Understand the three broad factors
Google describes relevance as the match to the search, distance as proximity to the searcher and prominence as how well-known the business is. Its local ranking guidance also says there is no way to request or pay for a better local ranking.
These are broad explanations, not a formula for calculating a position. A business cannot move closer to every searcher by changing wording on its website.
Why neighbours can see different results
Imagine two people searching for a bicycle repair shop, one in central George Town and one farther out. Their locations and needs may lead to different results.
The owner’s search from inside the shop is therefore one observation. It should not be treated as a complete report of visibility across the service area.
Record the query and location context when reviewing a result rather than comparing screenshots with no explanation.
Improve information you can verify
Check the business name, category, contact details, hours and actual visiting arrangements. Make the website clear about services and locations, and keep the profile consistent with current operations.
Use relevant photographs that help customers recognise the business. Respond thoughtfully to feedback and correct recurring sources of confusion.
Our Business Profile checklist gives a practical review sequence.
Avoid changes that misrepresent the business
Do not invent a location, add an unsupported service or alter the business name to make a listing look relevant to more searches. The information should match what a customer encounters.
Ask for genuine reviews without rewards or selective requests for praise. See the review request guide.
A proposal promising first place everywhere should explain how it accounts for location and changing search contexts.
Review useful customer outcomes
Look at relevant enquiries, bookings and the questions people ask, alongside available profile and website data. Record changes to hours, services and promotions that may affect the result.
If customers keep asking where to park or whether appointments are required, fix those information gaps. Better local visibility is more useful when the visit or enquiry goes smoothly.
Continue with the local SEO checklist for the whole journey.