Web Directories for Local SEO
Once upon a time, back in the early 2000s, a classic SEO technique was to submit a site to relevant web directories in order to acquire a backlink. But in time, Google shifted its focus from the number of backlinks pointing to a site to the quality of them – and with good reason. Some marketers were abusing the system, submitting hundreds upon hundreds of links to artificially boost the sites they were working on.
So where does Google stand on directories these days? Is it still worthwhile to use them? Well, they’re not entirely meaningless, especially when it comes to citations for local SEO. But they should be used wisely. Some directories, such as Yell.com, still have value and are a great tool for businesses hoping to attain local citations, but it’s not prudent to submit to any directory. With that in mind, we look at a few that can still have a positive impact on your traffic.
Yell
Remember the big yellow book that used to come through the door every so often? Well, that went online and is now Yell.com. Some 2.7 million UK businesses are currently listed there, and you can get a business profile page for free, which enables you to add contact details, opening times and photos. Your customers can also leave reviews, and your star rating shows up on the listing.
Bing Places
Bing has always played second fiddle to Google, but don’t underestimate the value of claiming a listing here. Bing Places for Business enables you to add your own listing for free, and this not only helps you rank for local searches on Bing, but also creates a consistent trust signal.
Yelp
Not to be confused with Yell, Yelp is a social directory where customers can review local businesses. It’s one of the top 800 most popular websites in the UK, meaning it’s well worth putting your organisation on here. It’s free too.
Checkatrade
If you’re a tradesperson, Checkatrade is a no-brainer. Specifically designed for builders, plumbers, tree surgeons and more, who want to build their business and showcase their adherence to a code of conduct, getting a listing here makes sense. You can sign up for free, but to make the most of the service, you’ll need to pay a subscription fee.
192.com
One of the top 500 websites in the UK, 192.com is a great way for customers to find businesses and business people. Your organisation may already be listed here (listings are free), and you can claim and edit your listing by signing up. Customers can also add reviews to help others decide whether to engage your services.
UK Small Business Directory
If you fit into the small business category, this is a good place to add a listing. Many people are choosing to use smaller local businesses these days, so it’s worth joining the 260,000 other companies listed on UK small business directory. You can add your organisation for free but there are also upgrade options if you want to add more details.
Bizify
Bizify is more than a simple web directory. Home to over 700,000 listings, it aims to make your business easy to find through the promotion of your brand and services. The site helps customers find your company through the combined use of information in business directories, local SEO services, and social media accounts.
Opening Times
Opening Times does exactly what it says on the tin. If a customer needs to find out your business’ opening hours, they can find them here. The site also lists other key information such as car parks near to your premises and shopping centres in the local area.
Business Magnet
Business Magnet has around 140,000 members, and enables you to create a page dedicated to your business, with information about the company and what it offers, opening times, and a link to your website. It’s great for B2B focused organisations, and offers customers the chance to write a review of your products or services.
One final note…
It’s worth keeping a record of which directories you’ve signed up to. Small businesses in particular can find they move premises fairly regularly as they grow, so you’ll need to ensure your information is kept up to date across all your listings. Of course, if you’ve engaged an SEO agency in Kent such as Whitefish Marketing to handle your online marketing, they can do the updates on your behalf.
