But if something’s missing or the information is inaccurate or inconsistent, you’ve just created a negative first impression—and maybe even lost a sale. Since 50% of all mobile searches are conducted in hopes of finding local results, according to a Google study, and 61% of those searches result in a purchase, you’ve got plenty of reason to get it right the first time.
“Your business listing information is a platform that allows new clients and potential customers who are searching for you to see that key information,” said Kathleen Taggart, director of SEO and social media at Blue Laser Design. “They want to know how to find you.” If your business name, location, phone or hours of operation aren’t readily available, they will probably move on.
Here are a few more things to consider about online business directories:
- An up-to-date business listing notifies search engines that you are a real business, and that helps improve your search engine optimization.
- You want your brand to be as visible as possible, and this is one more way to accomplish that.
- People may search for your business listing because they want to leave a positive review, and that could persuade other potential customers to do business with you as well.
So take the time to check your online business listings for accuracy and consistency wherever they appear. It will increase your visibility, and make it easier for potential customers to find you.