Main Sources for Building Local Citations

Data aggregators compile information from databases with the intent to supply information to search engines like Google and local citation websites. The four major data aggregators are: Acxiom, Factual, Info group, and Localeze. Their databases contain business information that is used on many local citations.

Once data aggregators like Acxiom and Factual post the gathered business information on local directories such as Yelp and Angie’s List, local businesses generate new customers this way. All businesses should remember to always keep their NAP information accurate and consistent, so that local directories can match up with each other and verify that the NAP information remains the same.

The Yellow Pages, Angie’s List, Foursquare, and Yelp are great to get location-based customer reviews. They also provide citations if the NAP is accurate across all review websites. Also, a business that gets great customers reviews with high ranking stars, the better chances of localized results to show up on search engines.

Verified social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Google+ provide local citations, all companies should have this implemented and updated regularly. Consistently check to see the contact information and website address is accurate.

If a business location moves, a phone number is added, or a contact email changes, always update all social media pages with these changes. For visually-driven companies, think food and dining services, clothing, and health spas, an engaging presence on Instagram, YouTube, and Pinterest and YouTube can help boost local citations.

Local citations vary between sector and industry-specific directories. For example, the travel and tourism industry rely on restaurants and hotels who rank high on Google to get vertical citations on Trip Advisor and Booking.com. It’s important to define a business by it’s industry-specific directory and who is the intended target customer base.

Examples of vertical niche industries include education, healthcare, automotive, lawyers, and contractor services such as movers and plumbers.