People talking about your brand online can contribute to your search engine optimization (SEO) efforts, especially if the conversation occurs on reputable platforms and includes your business information. It creates what’s called a local citation, which is considered one of the best ways to promote local businesses online.
This post will break down how this type of online citation can help bring more customers to your door and offer practical tips for local SEO dominance.
Understanding local citations
A citation is a general term that refers to mentions of your business online. For instance, if someone talks about your business on their blog or social media post and includes a link to your website, this is considered a citation.
Local citations are mentions that include key details about your business, specifically your NAP (name, address, phone number). They typically appear in mapping services like Google Maps, as well as business directories, social media platforms, and review websites like Yelp, Yellow Pages, and your local Chamber of Commerce website.
Imagine these citations as digital signposts directing potential customers to your front door. When someone searches for products and services you offer, having your business information appear consistently across different platforms helps them find your business.
But that’s not the only reason they’re such a great way to promote local businesses. These citations also indicate to Google and other search engines that your business is credible and worth recommending to their users.
For example, imagine a potential customer searching for “best HVAC repair near me.” If your business appears consistently across online directories with the exact contact details, you’re more likely to rank higher in those search results. Higher rankings mean better visibility, leading to more visits to your store and sales.
On the other hand, inconsistent or inaccurate citations can confuse both search engines and customers. Just imagine how frustrating it would be to call a business only to find out the phone number is wrong or visit a location that no longer exists because of outdated information. This can hurt your local SEO performance, reduce your online credibility, and even cost you customers.
Ensuring citation consistency
When it comes to citations, quality is just as crucial as quantity. Here are tips to ensure that your business details are accurate and consistent across all citations:
Use the same NAP everywhere
Make sure your NAP is presented the same way every time. Even tiny differences, such as Ave vs. Avenue or Suite #12 vs. Ste 12, should not be ignored as they can lead to confusion and inconsistent citations.
Claim and update your listings
Go to major platforms like Google Business Profile and Yelp to claim your business listing. Once claimed, make sure to regularly check and update these listings for accuracy. This is especially crucial if you’ve recently changed your business information.
Perform a local SEO audit
A local SEO audit can review your current citations for correctness and consistency. Though the process might sound time-consuming, it can be done quickly using tools like Moz Local and BrightLocal.
Using citations to promote local businesses
Here are some tips for local SEO success with the help of citations:
Concentrate on high-quality directories
While it may be tempting to list your business in as many directories as possible, this strategy can be counterproductive. Getting listed on spammy websites or those irrelevant to your business or industry can harm your local SEO ranking.
Focus on established and popular platforms like Google and Yellow Pages. Directories on social networks like Facebook and LinkedIn can also help, especially if you cater to a specific audience.
Encourage customer reviews
Many citation sites like Yelp and Google Business Profile allow past customers to leave reviews. Positive reviews can boost your local SEO ranking and entice potential customers to visit your business or convert into paying clients. Essentially, reviews allow you to get more out of your citations.
However, soliciting fake reviews is unethical and can ultimately harm your business. Instead, focus on providing excellent products or services and encourage satisfied customers to leave feedback. Respond to all reviews, including negative comments, as this shows you appreciate your customers’ input.
Leverage niche directories
Beyond major platforms, consider niche directories specific to your industry. For instance, if you are in the home improvement and service niche, you’d want to be listed on directories like Angi and HomeAdvisor.
This strategy can help you reach potential customers who are already interested in your industry and are more likely to convert into actual customers. Niche directories are also often seen as credible, so having your business listed can boost your online reputation.
Monitor and update regularly
Your business will inevitably change over time. You may move to a new address, change or get new phone numbers, or modify your operating hours. Whatever the case, you have to ensure that your listings reflect all the most recent changes.
Regularly monitor your listings and update them as necessary. As mentioned above, regularly performing local SEO audits can help you accomplish this thoroughly and efficiently.
Use tools for automation
Managing citations manually is anything but a walk in the park, especially if your business is listed on multiple platforms. It becomes even more challenging as you expand to more locations or industries.
Thankfully, advanced tools like SEMrush and Yext can help automate citation management. These tools allow you to update your business information across multiple directories simultaneously, saving you a lot of time and effort.
Citations might seem like a small, negligible detail, but they are critical components of any successful local SEO strategy. Aside from contributing to higher search rankings, they can also help bolster your online reputation and drive customers to your door.
However, if managing citations and implementing other aspects of your local SEO strategy sound overwhelming, don’t worry. Many small and medium business owners hire professional local SEO agencies to assist them with growing their online presence. SEO companies have teams of experts who ensure that all aspects of your local SEO, including citations, are accurately and consistently managed as you focus on running your business.
Work with an SEO agency today and give your business the visibility and growth it deserves!