Google Maps has offered a review filter for the last few years.  It wasn’t prominent, so you had to click on the map or go to the Maps URL on a mobile device to use the tool. Some searchers didn’t realize this filter was available. Now, users can filter Google review ratings in .5 increments at the top of each general map search. Are you still there if someone filters plastic surgeons with at least a 4.5 Google review rating?
Google reviews have always been vital. The search engine giant has 87% of the USA market share, and 90% of the world market. Thus, most searchers see information first on search results.  Because it is easier than ever to filter by review average, you need to ensure that your Google review average is 4.5 or better. Then you can be assured that you appear in filtered search results.
Using Review Filter
Let’s look at how the filter can be used in an illustration. I start my search searching for plastic surgery in Fort Myers, FL . My search results show no rating selected. Two ads appear at the top with 20 additional practices shown below. There are a variety of review ratings shown. It’s challenging to scroll through all of these and keep the ratings in mind.
This listing has the review rating filtered to at least 4.5. Notice how many of the practices were eliminated. We now see plastic surgery practices with at least a 4.5 rating. This is an easy filter, so it’s important to make sure you are there. If you are at a 4.4 rating, ask satisfied patients for Google reviews.
It is much easier to scroll through this listing, which is Google’s goal.
Google Advertisers Remain at Top When Using Review Filter
Multiple factors play a role in what position you occupy in the Google Map list. Just like in Google searches, advertisers appear at the top. Regardless of the chosen rating, the two top positions are advertisers even if they don’t meet the review filter criteria. All other listings are filtered according to the criteria.
Filter Not Shown
When there are only a few medical practices meeting your search terms, there is no review filter shown. In the result below, there is only one advertisement and four practices meeting the search criteria. Because you can see review after at a glance, there is no reason to filter the results.
Will your practice appear when the top review filter level is selected? Are you appearing in the top 20 for your key procedures? How does your Google adword campaign stack up? Your online reputation, Google Ads and SEO work hand-in-hand to optimize your online visibility. If you aren’t sure how you measure up, ask PUMC for an assessment. Call or email now.
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