Citations: should I list my business?

A Citation refers to the digital reference that differentiates your business from the rest of the pack. It’s part of search engine indexing and traditionally includes what is referred to as the NAP (name, address, and phone number). 

For example, when someone searches your company name on Google, the essential info shows up, and they can take the next step in the sales funnel. So, it’s critical that you only list accurate information to avoid frustrating your prospects.  

Google My Business is an important online business directory that every business should be listed on. Other online web directories you can utilise include:

● Yahoo
● Foursquare
● Yelp
● Bing
● Facebook
● Yellow Pages
● Better Business Bureau
● Nextdoor

It would also help your business if you could work with your local paper and feature article an about your business. Apart from bolstering your reputation among your customers, Google will also reward your efforts by ranking you higher in the search results for your industry keywords. 

Does Listing Your Digital Address Help With SEO?
Online web directories can help with search engine rankings, but it’s important that this action is undertaken with other digital marketing strategies. Providing potential customers with relevant data is essential if you are to gain their trust and take the next step in clicking on your website. Even Google’s John Mueller stated that a business listing wouldn’t do anything unless other SEO best practices were adopted.

So, don’t list your business with the anticipation that it will propel you to the top of the rankings. Instead, consider it a way to establish credibility and trust for B2B and B2C transactions.

With that said, a business with more citations generally fares better than a brand with little to show during a search. In addition, having online mentions from several web directories will help establish your credibility and earn you further brownie points by gaining people’s trust. 

How to List Your Business
You can start your journey by creating a Google Business Profile account. Simply fill out the form and personalise your profile by supplying relevant information and images. This web directory is free, so businesses on a tight budget have nothing to worry about.

Besides the NAP, your business listing* must also include the following:

● Business Hours
● The link to your website
● Your social media pages
● A short description of your business, including your services

*Please note that this list is not exhaustive

Really think through the services you offer that should be listed on your profile. For instance, if you are a restaurant, it would improve your customers experience if you added your menu to your business listing.  

One of the essential elements of your business listing is Google Maps, especially if you have a physical store or office. 

According to Google, nearly 9 in 10 people searching for a local store using their smartphone visited the location within a week. So, for instance, pinning your site on Google Maps will direct customers to your store quickly and efficiently. 

Ultimately, it’s a question of who to trust. If the search results turn up empty, apart from your company name, it will send alarm bells to your customers. This will lessen the chances of them doing business with you and is why the NAP, online mentions, and relevant images will boost your visibility, enhance your credibility, and encourage people to initiate contact. 

If you would like help with your setting up your Google Business Profile or adding your business to relevant online directories - we can help! Call 01708 578 015 today.