Any digital marketing expert would tell you that optimizing your site for local search is one of the first most effective steps you can take in your Search Engine Optimization campaign. And online directories, otherwise known as “citation sites” are the most crucial places to target for local search. However, it’s not just merely inputting your company’s NAP (Name, Address, and Phone Number/s) and description, business categories, etc. It’s about accurately, and painstakingly making sure all the details you put are consistent throughout all your business listings. Otherwise, you can do your site more harm than good. In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about biz directories listing for SEO.
What is a business directory or citations list?
According to digital marketing authority blog, Moz, a business directory is
“an online list of businesses within a particular niche, location, or category. One way local businesses can get found by online searchers is through inclusion in business directories.”
The truth is that, yes, many of your potential customers will search Google for information on local businesses. However, inevitably, the majority of that traffic will find themselves in local business directories. Just like yellow pages back when there was only the telephone, online business directories can also bring you, customers. And not just any type of customers. Since these users are using Google to find specific businesses in their area, it means that these are ready-to-buy customers. This is the reason why Local Search Optimization brings in better conversion rates and lead times.
Additionally, these business listings do exceptionally well in search rankings for relevant keywords or search terms. So even if you are having a hard time competing for high-volume keywords, at least your business’ NAP can appear on local directories that rank for them. Furthermore, Local Citations can help your site rank well in Google Places and in the “national” organic search.
Things To Include In Your Listings
The benefits of developing your business directories listing are great, but your company can only enjoy these benefits if you do it right. To maximize your listings or citations best, you need to make sure that all of your business listings include:
Consistent and Accurate NAP - One thing you absolutely must remember is to ensure your listings provide the same information throughout all of your listings. Discrepancies and inaccuracies may lead Google and its users to think your business is unreliable.
Company Description - Include a detailed description of your business, as well as a short write-up of your company’s mission, culture, and values.
Link - Citations are an excellent way to gain high-quality backlinks from authoritative websites. In SEO, backlinks are essential in improving a site’s domain authority, which is why you should always include a backlink to your website in every listing. Ensure that you attach a tracking link at the end of every URL in your business citations, so you can track how much traffic you are getting from them.
List Of Business Directories Listing For SEO
Now that you know how valuable and important it is to curate and develop your business’ online citations, we’re providing you with the ultimate list of business directories for your local search optimization.
Google My Business
Google Places/Google+ Local
Facebook
LinkedIn
Yellow Pages
Yelp
Local.com
White Pages
Manta
Super Pages
City Search
City-Data
Merchant Circle
Yellow Book
Patch
Map Quest
Yahoo! Local
Dex Knows
Topix
Yellow.com
Better Business Bureau
Angie's List
Service Magic
Area Connect
Foursquare
American Towns
Local Guides
411.com
Biz Journals
YellowPages.AOL
Magic Yellow
Insider Pages
Mojo Pages
Hot Frog
Switch Board
Demand Force
Yellow Bot
Metro Mix
Kudzu
Show Me Local
Chamber Of Commerce
Local Pages
Hop Stop
Yellow Moxie
Best Of The Web Local
Phone Number
Yellowise
Get Fave
Tupalo
Zip Local
EZ Local
US City
Local Database
City Squares
Super Pages
Youtube
There are lots more! you may download 350 + business site directories list here ------> " DOWNLOAD 350 List"
We are still scraping more site list, just stay tuned guys! We will be sending more newsletter about guest post outreach leads, citations, photo geotag, videos, and some more SEO strategy. Just don't forget to subscribed :)