Are you looking to get more customers and be found online? Local directories are a great way to reach people outside of your network and grow your business organically. Our presenter Theo Ruby will go through the process of finding the most relevant and worthwhile business directories to be listed on. Not only will it help your SEO with verified backlinks to your website but it will help your business to become more visible with people outside of your network. It’s one of the most cost effective forms of marketing and all of the directories we will discuss are free to use and help to grow your online presence. He is an expert in helping businesses to build their online presence through websites, SEO and digital marketing campaigns that improve website conversions and customer retention. Here is what you are going to learn during the session: - The importance of being listed on local directories - The top 5 directories that every small business should have on their list - How to claim, verify and update your business listings - How to highlight your USP and create a compelling bio for your business - Time saving techniques to get listed on multiple leading directories in minutes

1. WWW.THEORUBY.COM
Simplifying the process of
building your business online
Get listed and be found on local directories

2. Aim: To understand the benefits of listing on local directories, what should
be included and the top directories to get your business on the map!
Session Tips:
1) Don't try to rewrite the slides or memorise them! Everything will be
available here tomorrow: www.theoruby.com/marketing-guides
3) If you want extra help I offer ad-hoc training and support for small
businesses.
4) Always aim to think about your own business and your ideal customer!
Introduction

3. Increased Online Visibility: Directories act as online databases, allowing
potential customers to find your business easily.
Improved Search Engine Optimization (SEO): Directory listings can improve
your website's SEO by providing backlinks and boosting your online presence.
Local Targeting: Many directories allow you to specify your business
location, making it easier for local customers to find you.
Enhanced Reputation: Being listed on reputable directories can enhance
your business's credibility and reputation.
Additional Marketing Channels: Directories offer an additional platform to
promote your business and reach a wider audience.
5 Reasons to use local directories

4. Step 1
Who is your target audience and where will they be?
Is it a reputable site or likely to be spam?
Are your competitors listed there?
What are the options available to you?
Is it paid / free and what are the benefits?
Identify Relevant Directories: Research and identify the local directories
that are popular and relevant to your business niche.

5. Step 2
Business name
Address
Phone number
Website URL
Email address
Business description
Categories or industry tags
Business logo or images (if required)
Social media profiles (if applicable)
Prepare Business Information: Gather all the necessary information about
your business, including:

6. Step 3
Claim or Create Accounts: Visit each directory's website and either create a
new account or claim an existing listing if your business is already listed.

7. Step 4
Complete Profile: Fill out your business profile on each directory accurately and
comprehensively. Provide as much information as possible to enhance your
listing's visibility and credibility.

8. Step 5
Verify Your Business: Some directories may require verification to ensure that
you are the rightful owner of the business. This can be done through methods
like phone or postcard verification.

9. Step 6 (combined)
Optimise Your Listing: Use keywords strategically in your business
description and categories/tags to optimize your listing for search engines
and improve visibility.
Add Images and Logo: If the directory allows, upload high-quality images
and your business logo to make your listing visually appealing.
Check for Consistency: Ensure that your business information (name,
address, phone number) is consistent across all directories to avoid
confusion and improve your local SEO.

10. Step 7
Encourage Reviews: Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews on your
directory listings. Positive reviews can boost your reputation and attract more
customers.

11. Step 8
Monitor and Update: Regularly monitor your directory listings to ensure
accuracy and update any changes in your business information promptly.

12. Top Directories

13. Trades
Professional Services
E-commerce
Beauty and Healthcare
Mums
Local Neighbours
Think about your service/product and which ones are relevant for you!!
I'd suggest that every business should start with a Google Business and Bing
Places listing
Think!

14. I believe in it so much that I have created my own directory
www.ealingbusinessnetwork.co.uk
Ealing Business Network