Have you ever googled your business name?
If so, what comes up?
Apart from your website, your business directory will show up in a number of listings in online directories. These usually carry either correct information about your business or incorrect information about your business.
I had a call from a prospective client recently to discuss redeveloping their website. In the process of investigating their internet presence, I found at least 10 different references to their business address and phone number. On discussion with the client I found that some of this business directory had been obsolete for at least 5 years. He wasn't even aware of his business being listed on these free local business directories.
So, how does your business directories get listed on these free local business directories?
The most common way is through online scrapping tools. A scraping tool allows for data to be extracted from a website and imported into a spreadsheet for manipulation for various uses. These could be for the creation of business listing, the development of price comparison apps and websites or these online directories in which our business directory get listed on without our knowledge.
So the process is, we setup a business directories account with our local business Telco, and of course we want our phone number and address on the free business directories, but once this business directory is published on the Internet, we are open for this information to be shared, or taken, to be published on other online directories.
If you decide to list your business directories to be shared on business listings, make sure to read the terms and conditions carefully. Some directories may allow other local business to use your information without your consent. Others may require you to opt-in to having your local business information shared. Be sure you understand how your information will be used before you list your business.
This is a good thing. It is free promotion of your business and allows your business directories available to be found from various sources on the internet. I strongly believe that the more ways people can find you on the internet and on business directory, the better. Whether it be through your website being found on a Google search or being found on online directories.
But there are a few things that you need to do to make these business listings work for you.
- Register with or claim any online business directories you find that your business is listed.
- Keep a spreadsheet register of any online directories you find that has your NAP citation (Name, Address and Phone Number), along with your registered log-in details.
- Have a consistent NAP citation across all these online directories.
There are a number of online business directories that can be beneficial for businesses. By claiming or registering for this business listing, you can help improve your online visibility and reach potential customers. making sure your business directories are consistent across all business listings can help you to keep track of your listings and ensure that they're up-to-date. Overall, free business listing can be a great way to improve your online presence. Just be sure to claim your business listing and keep your NAP consistent for the best results.
Online directories can be a great way of promoting your business online linking to your website. But be sure they work for you and not against you. Take ownership of your website and internet presence. Regularly search your business name and see what comes up. If there are any negative listings, take steps to address them.
Be sure to claim your business listing on any local business directories that are relevant to your business. This way, you can control the information that is displayed about your business. Include key information such as your business name, address, and phone number. You can also include a link to your website and social media profiles on your business listing together as a local business.
Make sure the information on your website is accurate and up-to-date. Include your business hours, address, and contact information. If you have any special promotions or discounts, be sure to mention them on your website as well.
By taking these steps, you can ensure that free directories are working for you. Promoting your business directory as a local business and helping you to attract new customers.
