In the second part of our SEO series, we’re diving into the world of local directory listings and how it can affect your overall SEO rankings. When focusing on local SEO, local directories should be in the center of your strategy. These listings provide search engines the information they need when determining the right SERPs for any search.
So, what are these local directories you keep talking about? Well, there are thousands of online directories and website that provide free listing. Many of these you probably already use: Google My Business, Yelp, Bing Place, and online Yellow Pages. You might even have a Foursquare or TripAdvisor page. All these listings work together to become a local business dream tool.
By creating local listings, you are making your company more visible on the Internet. You become more searchable, more accessible, and more reliable within your market. The more trust you accumulate the more likely you’ll have higher rankings.
According to MOZ Local, there are four things you need to qualify for to have a local business listing.
- Have a business name or DBA (Doing Business As)
- Have a local phone number that matches your city of location (not a shared phone number, toll-free number, or call tracking number)
- Have a dedicated physical street address (not a shared address, PO box, or virtual office)
- Make face-to-face contact with your customers (business is not conducted virtually)
By using these technics, you’ll be able to “beef up” your online presence and provide meaningful information to your customers. There are many factors that will help with local SEO rankings, but starting with local directories can get you on your way from being lost in the mix to being seen.