{"id":1071,"date":"2023-02-09T11:48:42","date_gmt":"2023-02-09T17:48:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.advicelocal.com\/?p=1071"},"modified":"2023-02-09T11:48:42","modified_gmt":"2023-02-09T17:48:42","slug":"all-directories-are-not-created-equal","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.advicelocal.com\/blog\/all-directories-are-not-created-equal\/","title":{"rendered":"All Directories Are Not Created Equal"},"content":{"rendered":"

Everyone involved in local search marketing is constantly looking for the next big SEO strategy. So, it\u2019s really no surprise that citation building using listing management services<\/a> doesn\u2019t always get the attention it deserves. However, citations are fundamental to most local SEO strategies and have been delivering traffic, sales and search visibility for years. To understand why some agencies don\u2019t prioritize listing management, it\u2019s important to look at the varying quality of the directories that are out there.<\/p>\n

\"Local<\/a><\/div>\n

Why Quality Beats Quantity in Listing Management<\/h2>\n

Consider this \u2013\u00a0if two separate businesses both pursue a strategy of citation building on directory sites, how is it possible for them to have such wildly differing results? In all likelihood, you can link the outcomes to the quality of directories being used to promote each business.<\/p>\n

Essentially, Google and other search engines value consistent data on quality, relevant platforms. This is exactly why agencies need to submit their clients\u2019 businesses to authoritative listings sites \u2013 sites that deliver results.<\/p>\n

The Main Features of Quality Directories<\/h2>\n

From local and vertical directories to maps and premier quality platforms, there\u2019s no shortage of places to build citations. Here are some of the main features found in quality directories.<\/p>\n

Spam-Free Directories<\/strong><\/p>\n

As many agencies have discovered the hard way, listings management services are not created equal<\/a>. Submitting to a vast number of low-quality platforms filled with spam listings will not benefit a business, and could even lead to less prominence in search results. Recognizing this, our Data Amplifier Network at Advice Local contains only reputable directories backed by analysis.<\/p>\n

Niche-Specific Sites<\/strong><\/p>\n

Google places a significant weight on relevance when determining which sites get local pack and organic placements. In fact, along with proximity and prominence, relevance is one of the big three local SEO ranking factors. With listings on niche-specific sites, demonstrating this relevance is possible in many industries. For example, our network contains various legal and healthcare vertical directories.<\/p>\n

Relevant Categories<\/strong><\/p>\n

Of course, many businesses will not have a wide choice of niche directories to choose from. However, they can still benefit from categories within broader directories. In the highest-quality platforms you can expect to find relevant categories \u2013\u00a0and a moderation team that prevents inaccurate classifications.<\/p>\n

Location-Based Elements<\/strong><\/p>\n

As mentioned, proximity is a crucial metric in local SEO. Therefore, your local clients will benefit from directory features that pinpoint a business\u2019 location. Integrating a map within the listing is practical \u2013 and a valuable sales tool. In addition, because consumers use platforms like Judy\u2019s Book and Nextdoor to research local businesses, you need to ensure your clients are listed there.<\/p>\n

The Problems With Prioritizing Quantity of Directories<\/h2>\n

There are many reasons to love local citations<\/a>, but if the quality is lacking don\u2019t be tempted by the quantity of directories.<\/p>\n