If you’ve ever Googled your business and wondered why competitors show up ahead of you, the answer might have to do with backlinks and citations. These are two key factors that help search engines trust your business and show it to more potential customers.
But what are they, and why do they matter? Let’s break it down—without the tech jargon.
What Are Citations?
Citations are simply mentions of your business’s name, address, and phone number (NAP) across the web. Think of them as online business listings in places like:
- Yelp
- Trip Advisor
- BBB (Better Business Bureau)
- Apple Maps
- Google Business Profile
These listings act like proof that your business exists and is legitimate. If your business info is listed consistently across multiple trusted websites, search engines (like Google) are more confident in showing your business in search results.
Why Do Citations Matter?
✔ They help customers find you. Many people use directories like Yelp and Apple Maps to search for businesses. If you’re not listed, you’re missing potential customers. ✔ They improve your local SEO. Google uses citations as a ranking factor. The more accurate and widespread your listings, the better your chances of appearing in local search results. ✔ They allow customers to leave reviews. Sites like Yelp and Facebook are not just directories—they’re places where customers can leave feedback. Good reviews build trust and attract more business.
What About Backlinks?
Backlinks are links from other websites that point to your website. Think of them as online recommendations. When a trusted website links to yours, it signals to Google that your business is reputable.
For example:
- A local news site features your business in an article and links to your website.
- A chamber of commerce lists your business and includes a link to your site.
- A popular industry blog mentions your service and links to you.
Why This Matters for Your Business
Getting your basic local listings is a must-do step if you want to get more visible in Google's local map results and beyond. By itself, having accurate citations and backlinks won’t instantly skyrocket your rankings, but if your listings are inconsistent or missing, you’re making it harder for customers (and Google) to find you.
How to Get Citations & Backlinks (Without Going Nuts)
You don’t have to be an SEO expert to improve your online presence. Here’s a simple action plan:
- Check if your business is already listed. Google your business name and see where it appears. If you find incorrect information, update it.
- Create listings on major directories. Start with Yelp, Facebook, Apple Maps, BBB, and industry-specific directories (like TripAdvisor for travel businesses or Houzz for home services).
- Encourage happy customers to leave reviews. More reviews help build credibility and visibility.
- Get listed on local websites. Join your chamber of commerce, network with local bloggers, or collaborate with other businesses to get mentions and backlinks.
Need a Hand?
Keep Simple Makes Local SEO Easy!
If all of this sounds like a hassle, we get it—that’s why we do it for you. Keep Simple offers Local SEO services, including citation management to ensure your business is listed correctly and consistently across major directories.
While we can’t create organic backlinks from blogs or chamber of commerce sites (since those require direct business relationships), we can guide you on how to secure quality backlinks without resorting to spammy tactics.
