So, your business is on the move. Maybe it’s just down the block, or perhaps you’re jumping to a whole new city. Whatever the case, one thing is certain: managing your local citations is essential. You've got a laundry list of citations across various platforms, and the last thing you want is outdated information floating around the internet. Updating these citations might seem like a dull task, but trust me, it's a game-changer for your online presence.
Let’s be real: it can feel overwhelming. You might be looking at hundreds of citations, wondering how you'll get through them all. Don’t worry! I'm here to break down the process into manageable steps. Think of it as a checklist for success; once you nail this, you'll be set for the future.
1. Gather a List of Your Citations
First things first: you need to know where your business is listed. This might sound simple, but if your citations are scattered across various directories, it can quickly become a headache. If you don’t have a list handy (and let's face it, who does?), you can start by diving into Google Search Console. Navigate to ‘Links’ and check ‘Top Linking Sites.’ This will give you a goldmine of URLs that link back to your site.
Once you have that list, look for business directories like Yelp, Foursquare, and any social media platforms where your address is listed. It's crucial to have a comprehensive overview of where your business is represented, including local directories and your Google Business Profile (GBP).
2. Review the Most Important Citations
With your list in hand, it’s time to prioritize. Not all citations are created equal. Some will drive significant traffic to your site or generate a lot of calls. If you have a citation that is a traffic magnet, start there. If not, focus on the citations with high domain authority—places like Google, Facebook, and Yelp should be at the top of your list.
As they say, "If you’re not first, you’re last." Prioritize wisely, and ensure you’re updating the most valuable citations first.
3. Update Your Spreadsheet
Now that you know what needs updating, let’s get organized. As you go through your citations, update your spreadsheet to track which ones you’ve modified. Include the date you made changes for easy reference. A well-organized spreadsheet will be a lifesaver if you need to make more updates in the future.
You may need to claim your listings as you go along, especially if you don’t have access to the login information. Look for the ‘claim your listing’ button and follow the prompts. A little patience goes a long way here!
4. Check the ‘N’ and ‘P’ in ‘NAP’
You’ve probably heard the acronym NAP: Name, Address, Phone Number. When updating your citations, this is your mantra. Take a moment to verify that the name and phone number are accurate. Don’t forget to check your opening hours, too! You don’t want customers showing up after you’ve closed your doors early because you didn’t update that crucial information.
5. Keep a List of Passwords
After going through the process of claiming each business listing, you’ll realize the value of having a centralized password list. It makes life easier for anyone who might need to update citations in the future. Use a generic business email for registration, like info@mybusiness.com, to keep everything tidy and professional.
6. Find New Citation Sites
Lastly, don’t forget about growth! Once you’ve updated your existing citations, take some time to seek out new citation opportunities. A simple Google search can reveal directories you might have overlooked. Check where your local competitors are listed, and make sure your business gets the exposure it deserves.
Remember, in a digital landscape where visibility is everything, your citations are your business’s calling card. Keeping them updated ensures you're not just another name in the crowd; you want to be the first choice for customers.
In a digital world where visibility is everything, GMB Fox ensures your business isn’t just online—it’s the first choice customers make. Let us handle the complexities of digital marketing, so you can focus on what truly matters: growing your business.
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