Google is always changing, and AI is playing a bigger role in search results. Google’s new AI-generated summaries are beginning to change how people find information, sometimes answering questions directly instead of sending users to websites. But for now, local search is still crucial. When people search for businesses near them, they often visit a website, call a business, or check reviews before making a decision. That’s why understanding the elements of Google’s first page is so important.
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll typically see on Google’s first page when you search for a local business or service.
1. Google Ads (Paid Listings)
At the top of most searches, you’ll see Google Ads. These are paid placements—businesses bid to appear here. They look similar to organic results but have a small ‘Ad’ label.
✅ Why it matters: Ads can be a fast way to get visibility, but they require a budget. If you don’t use Google Ads, your goal is to appear in the sections below.
2. Google Maps / Local 3-Pack
This is one of the most important sections for local businesses. It’s a box that shows three businesses along with a small map. It includes details like business name, star rating, address, hours, and a link to call or visit the website.
✅ Why it matters: If your business appears here, you’ll get a lot of traffic. To show up, you need a well-optimised Google Business Profile (GBP). Having good reviews and accurate information helps you rank higher.
3. Organic Search Results (Regular Listings)
Below the maps, you’ll see the organic search results. These are unpaid listings that Google ranks based on relevance and quality.
✅ Why it matters: The top results get the most clicks. Ranking here depends on good SEO—meaning a well-built website, local keywords, and strong backlinks.
4. People Also Ask (Common Questions)
This section shows a list of related questions people commonly search for, such as:
- How much does landscape design cost in Brisbane?
- What is the best time of year to do landscaping?
Clicking on a question expands it with a short answer and a link to the source.
✅ Why it matters: If your website answers common questions clearly, Google may feature your content in this section, giving you extra visibility.
5. Video Results
Sometimes Google includes a carousel of videos, often from YouTube. These are usually tutorials, reviews, or demonstrations related to the search topic.
✅ Why it matters: If video makes sense for your business, posting helpful content on YouTube can be another way to get found.
6. More Organic Results
After the “People Also Ask” and videos, you may see a few more traditional search results. These work the same way as the earlier organic listings.
✅ Why it matters: Even if you don’t make the top 3, ranking on the first page still brings traffic to your business.
7. People Also Searched For (Related Searches)
Near the bottom, Google often suggests related searches. These are alternative phrases or similar searches based on what users commonly look for.
✅ Why it matters: This gives insights into what your potential customers are searching for. You might find new keywords to target in your website content.
8. Pagination (Next Pages of Google)
At the bottom, you’ll see “Page 1, 2, 3…” allowing users to click to the next set of results.
✅ Why it matters: Most users don’t go past page one, so appearing in the top results is key.
So, What Should Business Owners Do?
Now that you understand how Google’s first page works, here are some simple ways to improve your visibility:
✔ Set up and optimise your Google Business Profile – Make sure your information is complete and accurate. Post updates, add photos, and respond to reviews.
✔ Encourage more customer reviews – Businesses with good ratings often rank higher.
✔ Make sure your website is optimised – Use local keywords and ensure your site loads quickly.
✔ Answer common customer questions – This can help you appear in the “People Also Ask” section.
✔ Consider Google Ads if budget allows – It can help if you need quick visibility.
✔ Be present in directories like Yelp, TripAdvisor, and industry-specific sites – Google often pulls results from these places.
Final Thoughts
Google is changing fast, and AI is starting to reshape search. But for now, local search is still one of the most powerful ways for small businesses to get found. Understanding how the first page of Google works can help you make small changes that lead to big improvements in visibility.
If you’re unsure where to start, a local marketing expert can help. Getting found online doesn’t have to be complicated—but having the right strategy makes all the difference.