Increase Google Map Rankings with an Easy Direction Link

Imagine this: a customer searches for your business, taps your directions link, and walks through your door within minutes.

Meanwhile, Google’s algorithms notice the surge in direction requests, boosting your ranking in local searches.

More visibility, more customers, more sales, all from one simple link.

Our free Google Maps Directions Generator can help make this happen.

Why Local SEO Matters More Than Ever

Google’s algorithms are designed to prioritise businesses that demonstrate relevance, proximity, and prominence in local searches.

When a customer clicks a Google Maps directions link to your business, whether from your website, social media, or Google Business Profile (GBP), it sends a clear signal to Google: this business is in demand.

Studies suggest that 76% of mobile users searching for local businesses visit a store within 24 hours, and directions requests are a direct indicator of user intent to engage with your business physically.

This interaction tells Google three critical things:

Relevance: Your business matches what users are searching for (e.g., “best café near me”).
Engagement: Customers are actively seeking to visit your location, proving your business’s value.
Trustworthiness: Consistent Name, Address, and Phone Number (NAP) details tied to the directions link reinforce your business’s legitimacy.

These signals collectively boost your ranking in Google’s Local 3-Pack, the coveted top three results shown in local searches, and improve your visibility on Google Maps.

How Directions Links Drive Rankings

Embedding a custom Google Maps directions link across your digital platforms (website, X, Instagram, email signatures, or directories like TrueLocal) amplifies these ranking signals. Here’s why:

Increased User Engagement: Each click on a directions link is a micro-interaction that Google tracks via your GBP. More clicks signal higher demand, pushing your business higher in local search results. For example, businesses with frequent direction requests often see improved rankings within weeks.
Improved Click-Through Rates: A clear “Get Directions” button on your website or social profiles reduces friction for users, encouraging more clicks. This can lower bounce rates, a key SEO factor, and tells Google your business provides a seamless user experience.
Mobile Optimisation: With over 60% of searches happening on mobile, directions links cater to on-the-go users who want instant navigation. Google prioritises mobile-friendly businesses, and a directions link makes your business accessible with one tap.
Stronger Local Citations: Sharing your directions link on local directories (e.g., Yelp, TrueLocal) with consistent NAP details reinforces your business’s authority. Google trusts businesses with consistent citations, boosting your local SEO.
Behavioural Signals: Directions requests indicate real-world intent, which Google weighs heavily. Unlike generic website visits, a directions click shows a user is likely to visit your store, making it a stronger ranking signal.

Note: This will only work for physical location businesses on Google Maps.

How to Maximise Directions as a Ranking Signal

To harness the power of directions requests, use our Google Maps Directions Link Generator to create a custom link and strategically deploy it:

Embed on Your Website: Add a “Get Directions” button to your homepage or “Contact Us” page. For example, a local florist could place a prominent button on their site, encouraging clicks that signal relevance to Google and guide customers to their shop.
Share on Social Media: Pin your directions link to your X, Instagram, or Facebook posts with a call-to-action like “Pop in Today!” A food truck could post their link on X with their daily location, driving both clicks and foot traffic.
Include in Email Signatures: Add your link to every email, turning routine correspondence into a traffic-driving tool. A small gym could include “Get Directions to Your Next Workout” in their trainer’s email signatures.
Create QR Codes for Offline Marketing: Generate a QR code linked to your directions using an online tool (e.g., LinkTrak.Me). Print it on business cards, flyers, or shop signage. A café could display a QR code on their counter, inviting customers to “Scan for Directions” and boosting Google signals with every scan.
Partner with Local Businesses: Collaborate with nearby businesses to cross-promote directions links. For instance, a bookstore could share their link with a local coffee shop, encouraging mutual referrals via in-store flyers or social posts, amplifying clicks and local relevance.
Add to Print Advertising: Include your directions link or QR code in local newspaper ads, community boards, or event posters. A hair salon sponsoring a local festival could print their QR code on event flyers, driving directions requests and SEO signals.
Use in Loyalty Programs: Encourage repeat customers to use your directions link by including it in loyalty program emails or SMS campaigns. A bakery could send a “Visit Us for Your Free Coffee” message with the link, driving clicks and store visits.
Promote at Local Events: Share your link or QR code at markets, fairs, or community events. A craft stall could hand out postcards with their directions link, making it easy for event-goers to visit their shop later.
Optimise Your Google Business Profile: Ensure your GBP has accurate NAP details and promote your directions link in posts or updates. A tradie could add a “Book Now, Get Directions” link to their GBP, encouraging clicks that boost rankings.
Self Use: Use the directions to your business everytime to drive to your business – every direction request adds up. Ensure your employees do that as well.

A Note of Caution

While directions links are powerful, authenticity is critical.

Avoid artificial tactics like generating fake direction requests or using incorrect NAP details, Google’s algorithms are sharp and penalise manipulative practices.

Focus on genuine customer engagement, keep your GBP updated, and ensure NAP consistency across all platforms.