Local SEO is a game-changer for small businesses trying to attract nearby customers. One of the most powerful tactics in your local SEO strategy is building local citations. If you’re wondering how to build local citations for small business, you’re in the right place. In this guide, Digital Span walks you through the process and best practices to help your business rank higher and get found locally.
What Are Local Citations?
A local citation is any online mention of your business’s name, address, and phone number—commonly known as NAP. These citations appear in directories, websites, apps, and social platforms. Examples include Google Business Profile, Yelp, Bing Places, and industry-specific directories.
Why Are Local Citations Important?
Citations help search engines verify that your business exists and is trustworthy. When your business information is consistently listed across the web, it boosts your local rankings and increases customer trust. According to Moz’s Local Search Ranking Factors, citations are one of the top local SEO ranking signals.
How to Build Local Citations for Small Business
Here’s a step-by-step process Digital Span recommends for building local citations the right way:
1. Start with Core Platforms
Begin by listing your business on major directories such as:
- Google Business Profile
- Bing Places
- Apple Maps
- Yelp
These platforms carry the most authority and should be your first step.
2. Use Industry-Specific and Local Directories
Find directories that are specific to your industry or local area. For example, if you’re a legal service, consider directories like Avvo. Local chambers of commerce or city directories are also great sources. Make sure your NAP (Name, Address, Phone) is exactly the same on every listing.
3. Leverage Data Aggregators
Submit your business details to data aggregators like Factual, Neustar Localeze, and Data Axle. These services distribute your information to dozens of directories at once.
4. Check for Consistency
Use citation audit tools to scan for incorrect or duplicate listings. Keeping your data clean and consistent is key to building trust with Google and customers alike.
Tools to Help You Manage Citations
You don’t have to do it all manually. Tools like:
- BrightLocal
- Whitespark
- Yext
can help you track and manage your local citations more efficiently.
Need Help With Local SEO?
At Digital Span, we specialize in helping small businesses grow their local online presence. From citation building to full-scale local SEO services, we tailor solutions that bring real results. Want to ensure your entire website is optimized to support your local visibility? Check out our on-page SEO strategies and learn how proper technical SEO complements your citation-building efforts.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to build local citations for small business is essential in today’s competitive digital space. With consistent listings, targeted platforms, and the right strategy, you can significantly boost your visibility and customer trust. Need help getting started or fixing messy listings? Contact Digital Span today we’re here to grow your business, one local step at a time.