Making your presence known on an online local business directory is a great way to expand your reach and boost brand awareness. Local business directories are used by customers who need a product or service in their area. It’s the most popular way to discover new businesses. If you aren’t maintaining your presence on these popular platforms, you risk losing business to your competitors.
If you’re unsure which local directory listings your business should be present on, we’re here to help. We have compiled a list of the top 10 small business directories to consider.
The Top 10 Small Business Directories
When listing your company on different local directories, take the time to ensure all information listed is up-to-date and accurate. Inaccurate information can impact the customer experience and encourage consumers to shop with your competitors. The more directories you choose to list your business on, the more time and effort you’ll need to put into managing your presence. Consider investing in business directory management services if you don’t have the time to maintain your presence.
Here are 10 small business directories your small business should be listed on:
1. Google Business Profile
A Google Business Profile is arguably the most popular and important online business directory. Optimizing your GBP will help your brand get noticed on Google Maps and the search engine results page. Once you have your GBP set up, you’ll want to add videos and photos to showcase your business. You’ll also want to ensure all NAP information is up-to-date, especially during the holiday season. With the directory listing, you can also reply to comments and questions to ensure your customers’ needs are always met.
2. Yelp
Yelp is a popular online platform with a heavy focus on customer reviews and testimonials. Customers can easily search for businesses by industry, location, or ratings to find new gyms, spas, or restaurants in their area. Everyone is also highly encouraged to share reviews and experiences to help other customers make informed decisions. a listing on Yelp is ideal for restaurants and service-based businesses.
3. Better Business Bureau
Customers turn to the Better Business Bureau when they need a reliable, trustworthy company on their side. When you list your business on this online directory, you have the option to get BBB Accredited. If approved, you’ll receive a BBB seal you can display in your business or on your website.
4. Yellow Pages
Yellow Pages has been one of the most popular online directories for small businesses for decades. It’s a popular platform typically used among the older generations. Maintaining your presence on this platform can help with your SEO strategy and help you rank higher for local search queries. It’s free to set up a business account on YP. However, if you want access to lead management and call tracking tools, consider upgrading to a free plan.
5. Angi
Angi is a great place for contractors, plumbers, electricians, and roofers to get noticed in their local community. Customers use this local business directory when searching for specific services. Most individuals who use Angi to find services are likely to convert, making them high-quality leads. If you find success with this local directory, there are also many paid tools you can take advantage of.
6. Facebook Business Pages
Facebook is more than just another social media platform; it also acts as a local business directory. Facebook has over 3 billion monthly active users actively looking for new businesses or recommendations in their area. When you create a Facebook business page, you can ensure your business shows on Facebook maps, nearby places, and any relevant Facebook search results. With a Facebook Business Page, you can also create custom content to engage with your audience.
7. Thumbtack
Thumbtack is another popular service-based directory, similar to Angi. Customers use the platform to find businesses that can help with home improvement projects, weddings, house cleaning, personal training, and even photography. There is a free version. However, if you want to upgrade, you can utilize their pay-per-lead program. Instead of paying a flat rate, you’ll pay for every lead you receive. This is a cost-effective way to grow your business in your area.
8. Foursquare
Foursquare is a popular platform you can use to boost your local listing visibility. Once you claim your business and set up your profile, this information is shared across other platforms such as Apple Maps and Snapchat. Customers can leave reviews, ask questions, and even rate your services. This is a must-have for restaurants, retail stores, gyms, and other location-based businesses.
9. Bing
Bing has over 100 million daily users and is a popular search engine with anyone over 25 years old. Maintaining your local directory listing on this search engine is a great way to boost local SEO, ensuring you’re capturing a larger audience. With their listings, you can add photos, NAP information, and links to your social media accounts. Customers can also leave reviews to help boost credibility.
10. Manta
Manta is a local business directory designed for small businesses. Companies can create free accounts and create a mini version of their website. The platform is easy to use and is also indexed by Google, which can help improve your local SEO.
Invest in Local Business Directory Management Today
Optimizing and maintaining your presence on one or all of these business directories is vital to the success of your local business. If you’re ready to have a consistent strategy for utilizing these platforms, Townsquare Interactive is here to help.
Townsquare Interactive offers business management tools, along with digital marketing and small business directory management services. We’re here to help you maintain and optimize your presence on directories, ensuring all business info is accurate and up-to-date. Our team can help you manage up to 35 authoritative directory sites online at once, ensuring everything is easy to read and never confuses your customers.