Backlinks to GBP page (not landing page) as a ranking factor?

[CaribouFondue]

It seems logical to me that having links to the GBP page would be a ranking single to google as it means more people are sharing your listing around the web. Yet I do not see this as even a voted factor in the latest 2023 ranking factors. 2023 Local Search Ranking Factors Report from Whitespark – Increase local SEO rankings

Also what about social signals? Eg Non followed links from social networking sites.

@whitespark ?

 

[whitespark]

Linking to the GBP has always been considered a useless tactic. There has been no evidence presented (that I have seen) that linking to the profile provides any ranking benefit.

@JoyHawkins has tested it, and I guess she saw a temporary bump, but I think that bump could have been from other signals.

I'm always interested in more tests and case studies, though.

Links from social sites are also questionable. Since they're nofollowed, and since they're so easy to get, it's unlikely they pass much value. Again, I'd love to see a test, though.

My take on these activities is that they're not worth your time. Spend that time on other things that we know have an impact.

 

[CaribouFondue]

Thanks Darren, really appreciate the response.