An important step in solidifying your online presence in your local market is getting your business listed in as many local directories as possible.

Some of the more popular local directories are Google My Business and Yelp.  Be sure to sign up and enter all of the significant info about your business.  People who are searching for you turn to Google My Business and sites like Yelp first so you want to make sure you are well represented at these online outposts.  See an example of Google My Business listings below.  Google My Business listing are what show up when you search Google Maps.

The next places to list your business are in any relevant local business directories specific to your city and industry.  A good place to start is getting listed with your city’s Chamber of Commerce.  It would also be good to join any local associations that you could be linked to such as a home inspection association in your city.

Even if these sites aren’t providing backlinks to your website, they are giving your business worthy exposure and validity in your city.  It’s important that you only list your business in relevant directories, make sure that you have some type of affiliation with the industry you are listing with.  Also, be sure to only list locally, choose directories in and around your city or metropolitan area.