In terms of digital marketing, a directory or more specifically a business directory is an online listing of businesses. The listings provide information about specific businesses such as the name, address, contact information, associations, and the services and products offered. These businesses are usually categorized, by location, activity, or size. It is important that your business ensures that all your company information is up to date on every directory listing. Failure to do so can cause confusion for potential customers resulting in less trust and lost sales.
Not all directories are created equal. It is important to ensure that you prioritize adding your business to trusted authority sites rather than adding your business details in "bad neighborhoods." The top directories will help boost your SEO as you associate yourself with trusted brands. Poorly managed and questionable directories may damage your business ranking through guilt by association. If a listing looks like it hasn't been updated for years, you may want to ensure its credibility before listing your business.
Directories allow businesses to expose their business to more traffic, increasing awareness and connects potential customers to your business. Think about it this way, which business would be more likely to achieve a sale - a business with maybe one or two outdated business listings or a company that is listed on every major online directory with up to date information? Of course, there are many other factors in play, but assuming the businesses are identical in every other way, the business with multiple up to date listings will be much more likely to be found and trusted.
A directory is also beneficial to a businesses search engine optimization (SEO) efforts. The association with trusted websites and links as well as connecting to your website via social media provides valuable backlinks.
Most businesses find it difficult to find the time to learn and manage their SEO and directory efforts. If you experience these issues, have no fear! Digital shift offers local SEO packages that include listing your business on top directories. You can focus on your core business while our online marketing experts take care of your businesses SEO needs.