Creating online business listings is a key part of any search engine optimization or local marketing strategy. In order for your business listings to really pay off, it’s important to understand their value as a customer service tool as well. Sometimes people get so focused on quickly creating as many listings as possible that they lose site of the bigger picture. These online local listings are not just important for SEO, they are a crucial part of the conversion process for many customers.
According to research from Placeable, 71% of customers research location information before visiting a business for the first time. If your online business listings are inaccurate, you are potentially misleading three quarters of your potential customers.
The graphic above shows how inaccurate business information can quickly lead customers to lose trust in a business.
Tips for Maintaining Local Listings & Earning Consumers’ Trust
Follow our healthcare marketing agency’s 5 tips to keep your local listings accurate and helpful for customers:
- Ensure your business name, address, and phone number (NAP) are consistent across all local listing websites. Don’t forget to use the same formatting when listing your NAP on your own website.
- Fill out all listings as completely as possible. Besides your name, address, and phone number it’s important to list your business category, hours of operation, or any other information your customers might find useful.
- Help first time visitors confirm they have found the right business by uploading photos or providing more specific directions, such as nearby landmarks. If your business is inside a larger building or complex, provide instructions for finding your office.
- Keep a spreadsheet of every single listing you create and the login information you used. This will be a lifesaver if you ever change locations!
- Google Places and Google Local listings (now Google My Business) can be tricky. It sometimes takes months for Google to make the changes you request.
Bonus: Don’t forget about your social media sites as local listings. People often check social networks to find contact information, so be sure to list your address, phone number, and website URL where you can.
If you follow these simple tips, first time customers will be satisfied with their experience even before walking in your door or speaking with you over the phone. Putting in a little effort up front can have a big impact on building the confidence of your customers.
If your business needs help building a presence online, contact our agency to ask about our comprehensive online marketing services. Call 877-887-7611 to request a quote.
