What is a Business Listing?
A business listing is an online directory entry containing a business’s name, address, phone number (NAP), and other relevant details, such as its URL, hours of operation, and customer reviews. It is also called a local citation or business citation.
Getting your business listed in multiple online directories is crucial for SEO as it signals to search engines that your business is legitimate and trustworthy. Search engines like Google and similar platforms also use your listings to determine the accurate details of your business.
Business listings improve your online visibility and help potential customers find and contact your business easily. For this reason, you should ensure that your business details, particularly your name, address, and phone number (NAP), are accurate and the same across all directories in which you are listed.
Benefits of a Business Listing
A business listing makes it easier for potential customers to find accurate and up-to-date information about a business they may be willing to patronize. This allows them to locate the business quickly, leading to higher traffic and revenue for the business.
Business listings also improve local SEO and make it more likely for the business to rank for local search results. In fact, multiple data, including the name, address, phone number, website, and operating hours, which are typically included in a business listing, are requirements for businesses that want to rank for local SEO.
Business listings often include additional features like customer reviews, ratings, and photos, which provide social proof and guide the visitor in making a decision. For instance, positive reviews can influence purchasing decisions while responding to feedback signals to potential customers that the business is committed to satisfying their customers.
How to Create a Business Listing
You can create business listings by signing up for directories, services, apps, and platforms that list business information. Many of these services are free, but some are paid. The free ones may also have paid features that provide additional benefits.
Here are some common directories, services, apps, and platforms where you can list your business. If your business is already listed, you can claim it and optimize it for conversions.
1 Google Business Profile
Google Business Profile (formerly called Google My Business) is a free tool by Google that allows businesses to manage their online presence across Google services, including Search, Maps, Shopping, and the local pack.
It helps businesses display key information, including their address, opening hours, and customer reviews. Businesses can also post updates, respond to reviews, and add photos to engage with customers.
2 Bing Places for Business
Bing Places for Business helps businesses list their information on multiple Bing services, including Search and Maps. Businesses can also add photos and create special offers to attract customers who use the Bing search engine and partner services.
3 Yelp
Yelp is a popular review platform where businesses can create profiles to showcase their services. Customers can also rate the business and leave written reviews detailing their experience there.
Potential customers use Yelp to find local businesses, particularly restaurants, shops, and service providers they want to patronize. Businesses, in turn, take advantage of this by claiming their businesses, responding to reviews, posting updates, and using Yelp ads to attract more customers.
4 TripAdvisor
TripAdvisor is the go-to platform for travelers seeking accommodation, restaurants, and other fun activities. It allows hospitality and travel businesses to respond to reviews, post photos, and advertise their businesses to attract more visitors.
TripAdvisor is quite popular, and receiving positive reviews there can significantly boost your bookings and reputation.
5 Foursquare for Business
Foursquare is a location-based platform that helps businesses attract nearby customers through listings and promotions. It is helpful for restaurants, retail, and entertainment venues looking to drive foot traffic.
Businesses that claim their Foursquare listing can offer special deals, track customer visits, and analyze performance. Foursquare also integrates with multiple apps and maps, making it a powerful tool for local marketing.
6 Facebook Business Page
Facebook allows users to create profiles for their business. These pages usually contain the details and photos of the business. Customers and potential customers can message the business directly or leave reviews detailing their experience there.
7 LinkedIn Company Pages
LinkedIn is a professional platform for businesses to showcase their brand, share updates, and connect with potential clients and employees. It is ideal for B2B marketing, networking, and businesses that want to recruit or target corporate clients.
8 Yellow Pages
Yellow Pages is an online directory used by visitors looking for businesses to patronize. It is popular among the older demographics, making it a good option for businesses targeting this audience.