Contents
Why Your Local Listings Need To Be Accurate
The Importance of Local Citations and Data Aggregators
Are potential customers finding their way to your business? The goal of any online presence is to draw in customers to your store, office, or showroom so that you can convert them into paying clients. But what happens when potential customers are given the wrong information about your business location? According to Placeable, 73% of shoppers lose trust in a brand when online listings show incorrect information.
Maximize Your Business Visibility: The Importance of Local Citations and Data Aggregators
Are potential customers finding their way to your business? The goal of any online presence is to draw in customers to your store, office, or showroom so that you can convert them into paying clients. But what happens when potential customers are given the wrong information about your business location? According to Placeable, 73% of shoppers lose trust in a brand when online listings show incorrect information.
Don’t Miss Out on Potential Customers: The Impact of Missing Business Hours
When searching for a business, the first piece of information that most people look for is the hours of operation. In fact, a study by local data aggregator Localeze found that hours of operation were the most critical element in choosing a business during a local search. 76% of respondents stated that they expect this information while searching, and 61% believe it is a factor that helps them make a decision. Missing this crucial piece of information can be a dealbreaker for potential customers.
To ensure your business hours are accurately displayed, consistently update your listings across popular directories like Google My Business, Bing Places, Apple Maps, and industry-specific directories. Additionally, work with reputable data aggregators like Neustar Localeze, Acxiom, and Factual to distribute your business hours to thousands of online directories and apps.
Don’t Let a Spelling Error Cost You Business: The Importance of Accurate NAP Information
While many assume that the main reason people search for a business online is for its location or address, it’s actually the second most sought-after piece of information. However, an incorrect address or even an incorrect town can mean that potential customers can’t find you. To ensure your business is easily found by local searchers, it’s essential to make sure your Name, Address, and Phone (NAP) information is accurate on all online listings.
Regularly audit your NAP data across popular directories and data aggregators to identify and correct any inconsistencies or errors. Utilize a reputable local listings management service to streamline the process of updating and syncing your NAP data across multiple platforms.
Don’t Miss Out on Mobile Customers: The Importance of Optimizing for Local Search
More and more people are using their smartphones to search for businesses, and it’s crucial that your business is optimized for local search. According to Localeze, mobile-based searches drive in-store purchases with over 75% of searches resulting in a purchase – if a business has their listing details correct. If 50% of people searching for a business on a local search engine like Google Local/Maps can’t find the store’s details, the business will lose 100% of their business from that search.
To optimize for local search, claim and verify your Google My Business listing, ensuring that all information is accurate and up-to-date. Encourage customers to leave reviews, as positive reviews can significantly improve your local search rankings. Additionally, incorporate local keywords and location-specific content on your website to improve visibility in local search results.
Don’t let inaccurate information or missing details cost you potential customers. Make sure your business is easily found by optimizing your local citations and working with data aggregators. Contact MVee Media today to learn more about how to improve your online presence and ensure your business is visible to local customers.
Get in touch with us today, to fix and improve your local business listings profile today!
SEOÂ & Advertising Expert, Mark Valerio has served the online industry for over a decade.