Local SEO is more than just a buzzword; it's the lifeblood of many businesses striving to be seen in their communities. One key element of local SEO that’s often overlooked is citations. Let’s break down why citations are crucial for your local business and how you can leverage them for success.
Accurate Citations: The Backbone of Local Search Rankings
When it comes to local search rankings, accurate citations are your first line of defense. According to the Expert Local Citation Survey 2016, a staggering 90% of local SEO experts agree that accurate citations are critical or very important to local search rankings. This isn’t just industry chatter—this is your blueprint for getting found online.
“Having accurate citations for a business is par for the course. Regardless if a brand has 10 or 10,000 locations, the local listings need to be accurate and monitored ongoing for discrepancies, ensuring users are able to successfully contact and visit the business.” – Nick Neels, Location3
While you might think that having a multitude of citations is the way to go, the truth is that quality trumps quantity. The survey found that 86% of experts believe the quality of citations is more important than the sheer number of them. So, focus on building citations that are relevant and reputable.
Industry Relevance: The Key to Effective Citations
Not all citations are created equal. The survey highlighted that industry relevance is the most important factor to consider when choosing citation sites. This means you should prioritize directories that cater to your specific industry. For example, if you're a local restaurant, being listed on food-related directories is far more beneficial than being on general sites.
“Citation building isn’t a special strategy in local SEO anymore. It’s table stakes, and everyone should be doing it and taking data consistency seriously.” – Dev Basu, Powered By Search
Rich Citations: Adding Value to Your Listings
In today’s digital landscape, it’s not just about name, address, and phone number (NAP) anymore. Rich citations—those that include additional data such as business hours, photos, and customer reviews—are becoming essential. According to the survey, 62% of experts rate rich citations as essential or very important for local SEO.
Navigating the Citation Landscape
Building citations isn’t as straightforward as it seems. Here are a few strategies to consider:
Niche Directories: These often carry more authority. 33% of experts suggest focusing on niche/industry directories as they offer the greatest authority.
Local Directories: Don’t underestimate local directories; their authority is on the rise.
Unstructured Citations: Beyond traditional listings, look at unstructured citation opportunities, like being mentioned in local news articles or community blogs.
A Final Thought
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.
Comments