How to boost your search ranking with online directories

Search engines are constantly getting smarter, so Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategies also have to stay one step ahead. One way to do this is by participating in online business directories. Using these directories is an effective way to get your business listed on the first page of search engine results, which will help people find you and drive traffic to your website or your business.

In general, online directories are a great marketing tool and can instantly boost your online reputation.  Plus, when your listings across the Internet are consistent and accurate, it signals to the search engine that your business is legitimate and you will rank higher.  So here’s some tips for how you can use online directories to get found online by your target audience.

1. What is an online directory?

Four out of five consumers use search engines to find local listings, so online directories are a critical component of any online reputation management strategy.  Essentially, online directories are a compilation of links to websites and other online resources and crucial for business owners who want to be found online.  As the Internet has become an essential part of our lives, people are spending more and more time surfing online directories.  Online directories act like a search engine for finding information.  As a result, they are a great place to get your business listed so that you can be found by potential customers.

2. How to use directories to help your business

There are many factors that determine how your business’ page will rank in search engines. You need to optimize your on-page SEO, but also focus on your off-page SEO to be found when your target consumer is searching for your business. 

The most important thing is to make sure your listings are up to date across all of your company’s most important and impactful directories. It’s also imperative that you respond to any customer reviews that are posted on each listing.  Customer online reviews and listing accuracy make up over 60% of a business’ ranking in a search, so use these resources to maximize your business directory presence and show that you are a legitimate business worth ranking on the first page.

3. How to use directories to rank higher in searches

Online directories have become a source of business listings for local search engines like Yahoo Local and Google. If you are looking to stand out amongst competition and get found, you need to update your listing on these directories to make sure you’re getting the most out of this free advertising.

By creating and managing your online directory listings, you can make sure that your business is easy to find on Google by making sure your business name, address, phone number, hours of operation, and more are correct.

If you’re not sure where to start, here are a few of the top general directories where you can get your business listed and make sure your information is up-to-date and consistent:

1.  Google

2.  Facebook

3.  Yahoo!

4.  Bing

5.  Mapquest

6.  Whitepages

There are hundreds of directories and industry-specific sites where you’ll want to keep your company’s information accurate and up-to-date.  If you need help finding the right online business listings and managing your online business profiles, including Google My Business optimization, contact us today to start moving up the search rankings!