These days, if a customer is looking for a specific product or service, he or she usually turns to the Internet. To attract new customers — and to remind loyal customers that you’re still around — businesses create profiles on online directories, which will point customers their way. By listing yourself in these local directories, you’ll connect with the highest number of people searching for what you have to sell. While some local listings directories are fairly well known — for example, Google, Yelp, Facebook, and MapQuest — others are lesser known, but equally important.
Take the time to create a profile on these 15 online directories and watch your sales soar!
The Top Online Directories
With more than one billion active daily users, a Facebook page is essential for connecting with customers.
Twitter has more than three hundred million monthly users. Its users frequently engage with businesses by sharing information and asking questions.
Google is the most popular search engine out there, which means listing your business on their online directory is a must.
- Bing
While not as popular as Google, Bing is the second most commonly used search engine. A profile on their local directory is a chance to connect with customers who won’t look for you on Google.
- MapQuest
MapQuest is a web mapping service that connects customers with brick and mortar stores. If you have a store front, you need to be on MapQuest!
- Yahoo!
Yahoo! is an online platform where customers can review businesses and ask questions, while businesses can post news and share information. Over a hundred million people use Yahoo!, so be sure to connect with them!
- Foursquare
Foursquare is a social networking site where customers can learn about your business, write reviews, and connect via giveaways and discounts. A Foursquare listing means connecting with over 50 million users!
- Citysearch
While Citysearch is used most frequently to discover restaurants and bars, this free listing is another way to connect with locals or tourists who may enjoy visiting your store.
- OpenTable
Meant specifically for restaurants and bars, OpenTable is an extremely popular local listing where customers can not only search for the best places to eat, but also make a reservation directly from their iPhones.
- Superpages
Superpages is an online directory for people to find information about local businesses. You can share everything on your profile from hours to prices to directions.
- Allmenus
Every month, Allmenus receives around five million visitors. It also links to other search engines, like Google and Bing.
- CitySquares
This local directory connects businesses with customers in their city. While less known than some other search engines, it’s a great way to market yourself to customers who’re likely to remain loyal.
- DexKnows
Not only can you create a profile for your business on DexKnows, you can also track how customers interact with your profile. This gives you additional information about your customers that may come in handy in future marketing initiatives.
- Local
Another great mapping directory. Local.com , where you can connect with customers nearby.
- White Pages
The White Pages remain one of the most popular directories. Essentially an online phonebook, this is a platform to share your business’ contact information.
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