When it comes to online business, it is important that you reach as many customers and prospects as possible. However, in today’s day and age, it is critical that you take the proper measures to improve your visibility so that you are targeting your local customers – yes, those sales that are close to home. In order to do this, you need to focus on online business listings.
These customers are constantly on their smartphones, tablets and laptops looking for nearby businesses, just like yours, and those devices are pointing them to online websites like Google Places, Bing, Yelp, etc. If you aren’t listed in these directories, then you’re not going to get their business.
So, aside from making sure you are getting sales from local customers, here are a few reasons you need to make sure you are listed on top-ranked directories and to verify your business information.
#1: To Improve Your Overall Search Engine Rankings.
When it comes to the highest search results that are not paid for and that are broad in relation to search terms (in other words a type of business and a city name only), they tend to come up with online directories like Google+, YellowPages, Angie’s List, MapQuest and Manta.
#2: Mobile Ranking.
As a general rule, a customer is going to search for a business that they are interested in or in need of while on-the-go. In other words, they’re going to use their mobile phone. By verifying your business information on Yelp, MapQuest, Here, etc., it will ensure you are visible on smartphone apps, which will encourage spending decisions of consumers.
#3: Search Preference.
Remember, search engines (Google, Bing and Yahoo) are just as much of a business as your company. When you add your business to their directories, your business will automatically be added to their search pages as well as to their maps.
#4: Join Your Competitors. (or Beat Your Competitors)
By claiming your online directory listing, you are going to vastly expand your online visibility, which can only benefit your online reputation. Plus, it will allow you to join the sea of your competitors. And if they are not as savvy as you, then you will beat them to it and get the premium positions.
#5: Maintain Accurate Information.
By verifying business information, you can ensure that your customers have up-to-date information at all times. It isn’t uncommon to change a phone number, business hours, etc. However, this is very frustrating to customers if this information is not made available to them, and it can often harm your bottom line. So, make sure that all information is accurate, as inaccuracies will cost you.
There are many online directories out there. If this seems a bit overwhelming to you, contact us today at WebDetail and let us help you get your business visible online. The important thing is that you take a step forward in the right direction and start claiming and verifying your business listings sooner rather than later!