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Today’s top online directories can help businesses find the right audience and dominate the local market. But for that to happen, it’s often wise to partner with the best listing management service provider. We help local businesses get found online by getting listed on the top directories, like the many included in our data amplifier network.
Always Include the Basics in a Business Listing
The majority of customers who are looking for local services online will be most interested in the basic information about a business. These are:
- Hours of operation
- Phone number
- Email address
- Physical address
It’s important that a prospective customer has options for contacting the business in order to find out any specific information they may be looking for. Many small businesses still do not list their email address as a means of contact, but they should in order to stay in contact with customers. There are many people who prefer email as a method of communication, and businesses could be missing out on new customers if they are put off by having to call instead.
Remember that many people who are looking for local services online will be visitors or residents who are new to the area. Be sure to include a business address so these searchers can get a clear picture of the business location, and if simple directions can be included, then that is even better.
Hours of operation are key and should be included in every business listing. People will be unwilling to make the trip to a location if they are unsure whether or not the business will be open when they get there, and they may end up visiting a competitor instead.
Make Business Listings Stand Out
In order to make a business listing stand out from others in a directory, be clear about what is offered, and especially about anything that separates the business from the competition. This could include:
- Languages spoken
- Payment methods
- Products and services offered
- Special qualifications or accreditation
Anything that may be an added benefit to a customer looking for a business should be in that business listing. If an exclusive brand is stocked, if a restaurant has vegan options, or if a store is pet-friendly, then share that information.
Invite Them to Connect with the Business Online
It is fair to assume that if someone has found a business listing in an online directory, then they are web savvy. Let them know about any social media sites the business has so they can connect or find out more about what’s going on at the business. Examples of links to include are:
- Website
- Google+
Getting businesses listed on hundreds of online directories is what we do. Find out more about how we can help businesses get listed and help them dominate local SEO. Check online business visibility today with our free report.
Hi I opened my business 7 years ago. I’ve since moved 4 times. I decided to get a virtual office so I don’t have to change my listing if I decide to move again. Does google froun upon you when having a virtual office?
David, you can service clients from their location vs. a business storefront, but you must have a physical business address to include with a Google My Business listing. Some other sites are more flexible however. It varies on a case by case basis.
Hi Bernadette,
I am currently handling a florist directory website, do you have any tips on how to optimize a directory type website? I can’t do business listings as it doesn’t have any physical address. Thank you for your help. Btw, the tips you mentioned above is now being used on client’s main website.
It’s important to make sure the directory is quality to place higher in search. It’s needs to build trust with search engines and consumers. Since you can’t include local business data, focus on integrating additional items like reviews and hyper-local content. Hope this helps.