Local Directory Listings: Why They're so Important to Your Local Business

In today’s SEO world, it’s crucial to make sure your local directory listings are online and correct. According to Verisign, 91 percent of consumers use the Internet to look for local products and services. It is vital that your local business directories are correct, claimed, and up-to-date online. If not, you may be missing out on a number of potential clients. 73 percent of people lose trust in a brand when its listings are incorrect, according to Vendasta. Customers blame businesses when their information is wrong, and they punish them for it.

Exactly what is a local online listing?

Claiming your online listings verifies that you’re the owner and your business is actually a valid place of business. Overall, if your online business is claimed, it validates to the consumer that you are a trustworthy business in the local community. Local search users are usually motivated and targeted to make a conversion. If you can attract them, then you will see an increase in conversions. According to Google’s research, 50 percent of consumers who conducted a local search on their smartphone visited the business within a day. And, 34 percent of consumers who searched on a computer/tablet did the same.

Benefits of claiming your online listings:

1. Allows consumers to automatically find your contact information and navigate to your website.
2. Provides reputation management monitoring and control.
3. Increases your visibility to search engines.
4. Leads to more conversions and more money in your pocket.
5. Increases your overall website traffic.

Claiming and optimizing your online listings is one the easiest and most impactful ways to positively control your online presence. If you need help getting started, Team SI is here to help!