Using local SEO strategies is more important than ever. When a user conducts a search with local intent, the Google 3-pack appears at the top results in 93% of the searches.
Unfortunately, gaining that top spot is more difficult. That’s why local businesses need to use different resources that will gain them credibility and enhance their domain authority to dominate local search engine results.
A great place to start is adding your business to various local directories — especially if you own an HVAC or plumbing business. Local directories will link back to your website and will list all of your basic information, so you’re better recognized by search engines.
Here are the 8 best local directories to start.
1. Yelp
Yelp is the most popular directory source but is also one of the most popular review sites. They boast 178 million monthly visitors across their desktop and mobile website as well as their app. This makes Yelp’s search engine an equally powerful tool to get your business discovered.
Because of its authority, Yelp is a great citation. Yelp will list your website as well as your contact information, the exact services you offer, and more.
How do you get your business on Yelp? First, search for your business and see if it’s already listed. If not, click “go to Yelp for Business Owners” on the top of the screen and select “Manage Your Listing.” From here, you can add and edit your free Yelp listing.
2. Google My Business
Of course, you’ll want to list your business on Google. Google My Business is a free listing service where you enter your business’ crucial information. Your business will appear in local search results as well as other Google products such as Maps.
How do you sign up for Google My Business? First, make sure your website isn’t already listed. Go to the Google My Business website and click the “Manage Now” button. You’ll first make sure your business isn’t already in the database.
If it’s not, click “Add your business to Google” to get started with your free listing.
3. Foursquare
Foursquare is a social media platform where customers can check-in where they are. While this is a service mostly used by restaurants, stores, bars, and other social places, your HVAC or plumbing company can still gain citations and leads from Foursquare.
To add your business to Foursquare, you’ll first want to search for your business. Go to the Foursquare Business website and click the “Your Listing” button. Search your business. If there are no results, click the “Get started now” link below the search feature.
4. Local.com
Local.com not only offers business listings but also features coupons, events, and reviews. Not only that, but this platform is completely free! This is a multi-marketing tool that a plumbing or HVAC company can utilize.
A local.com listing requires the same information that many listings require, such as a link to your website and photos.
To create a Local.com listing, you’ll first need to create a free account. From here, you can claim your listing or create a new one.
5. Yahoo and Localworks
While Google is the major search engine, don’t forget about Yahoo. 700 million people visit Yahoo websites every month, including Yahoo search. Yahoo Small Business teams with Localworks to put you on local directory listings.
With Localworks, your listing will appear in over 70 directories. You can easily manage your business profile through the Localworks system.
Keep in mind, Localworks isn’t free. The standard plan is $23.30/month and the premium plan is $33.25/month. If this is something that still interests you, you can sign up on the Yahoo Small Business website.
6. Bing Places for Business
Bing is another popular search engine. In July 2019, Bing had more than 1.35 billion visitors. They also offer local citation listings for businesses as well as a Maps product. This makes Bing one of Google’s strongest competitors.
Businesses will create their listing on Bing Places for Business and the listing is completely free. You can opt to import your data from Google My Business or can manually enter your data.
7. CitySearch
CitySearch is one of the most authoritative local directories. Users can enter their location and will find a variety of recommendations such as night clubs, restaurants, spas, and more. They can also get recommendations for plumbing and HVAC businesses.
Keep in mind, CitySearch is only available to businesses based in the United States.
The only downside of CitySearch is creating a business listing isn’t easy. CitySearch gets its data from a website called Data Axle, so you’ll need to create your listing there. Start by searching for your business and either claiming an existing listing or creating a new one.
8. Craigslist
Craigslist is a popular website to buy and sell products. While not a directory, you can use Craigslist to create ads and promote your business. It’s completely free and is one of the top 20 websites in the U.S., making it a popular and easy way to boost your leads.
Since Craigslist doesn’t have set required information, you’ll have to include website links and essential contact information for SEO results. Pictures are also useful.
Creating an ad is easy. When you go to the Craigslist website, it will immediately recognize your location. Click “create an ad” to the left side of the screen.
Use These Local Directories to Boost Your SEO Results
There are many free and easy ways to boost your local SEO results. All HVAC and plumbing business should get listed on these local directories for more website traffic, leads, and enhanced domain authority.
What if you tried all of these tactics and still aren’t getting the SEO results you need? It may be time to seek professional help. Don’t worry, you don’t have to look too far. We offer local business signals, organic search visibility, and other marketing services for HVAC and plumbing businesses.
Contact us today for a free marketing audit!
