Picture this: You’ve just opened up a brand new bakery in town, complete with delicious cakes, cookies, and pastries that are simply to die for. You’re eager to get the word out and start attracting customers, but where do you even begin?

In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is key to success, and that starts with claiming your business on various websites and directories.

Why Your Small Business Needs to Claim Its Online Presence

But why is it so important to claim your business online, you ask?

For starters, it helps potential customers find you more easily. When people search for local businesses on search engines like Google, they’re often shown a map with nearby businesses that have claimed their listing on Google My Business.

By having a presence on various websites and directories, you increase your chances of being discovered by people who are looking for businesses like yours.

Not only does claiming your business online improve your visibility, it also adds credibility to your brand. When people see that your business has a verified listing on Google or a positive rating on Yelp, they’re more likely to trust you and choose you over competitors who haven’t claimed their business online.

So where exactly should you be claiming your business online?

There are a plethora of websites and directories to choose from, including social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, industry-specific directories like TripAdvisor and Avvo, local directories like YellowPages and WhitePages, and niche directories like Angi and Zillow. (I will link all of the sites below.)

By taking the time to claim and optimize your listing on these sites, you’ll be well on your way to building a strong online presence and attracting new customers to your business.

Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

• Google My Business
• Other Search Engine Business Listings
• Social Media Platforms
• Industry-Specific Directories
• Local Directories
• Niche Directories
• Full List of Directories and Websites
• Conclusion

Google My Business

Get Your Business on the Map with Google My Business

When it comes to online listings, Google My Business is the king of the castle.

Claiming your business on this platform is a must-do for any small business owner looking to improve their online visibility. Not only is it completely free, but it also allows you to show up in Google’s coveted “Local Pack” – a map of local businesses that appear at the top of the search engine results page.

Importance of claiming a Google My Business listing

One of the biggest benefits of having a Google My Business listing is that it allows customers to leave reviews and ratings for your business. Positive reviews can go a long way in attracting new customers and building trust with potential clients.

Be sure to respond to all reviews, both positive and negative, in a professional and friendly manner to show that you value customer feedback.

How to claim and optimize a Google My Business listing

Claiming your Google My Business listing is easy – simply head to the website and follow the steps to verify your business. Once you’ve done that, it’s time to start optimizing your listing.

This means adding all relevant information about your business, including your address, phone number, website, hours of operation, and photos of your products or services.

Another way to optimize your Google My Business listing is by regularly posting updates about your business. This could be anything from promotions or special events to new products or services.

By keeping your listing up-to-date, you show potential customers that your business is active and thriving.

RELATED: How to Claim Your Google Listing – Video Tutorial

Claiming and optimizing your Google My Business listing is a no-brainer for any small business owner. Not only does it improve your online visibility, but it also allows you to connect with customers and show off what makes your business unique.

Other Search Engine Business Listings

Don’t Forget About the Other Search Engines

While Google is undoubtedly the search engine giant, it’s important not to overlook other search engines when it comes to claiming your small business online. Bing and Yahoo, for example, are still used by millions of people each day and can be a valuable source of traffic for your website.

Claiming your business on these other search engines works similarly to Google My Business – you’ll need to provide all relevant information about your business, including your address, phone number, website, and hours of operation. This helps ensure that your business appears in local search results and on maps.

Importance of claiming a listing on other search engines

While the process may seem tedious, the benefits of claiming your business on these other search engines are numerous. For starters, it allows you to reach potential customers who may not use Google as their primary search engine. It also helps improve your overall online visibility, which can lead to increased brand recognition and sales.

Plus, with fewer businesses claiming their listing on these other search engines, you may be able to stand out more easily and gain a competitive advantage in your local market. So don’t forget to claim your business on Bing, Yahoo, and any other search engines that are popular in your area.

How to Claim Your Business On These Sites

Claiming your business on other search engines may not be as flashy as Google, but it can still provide valuable benefits for your small business. By ensuring that your business is visible across all search engines, you increase your chances of being discovered by potential customers and ultimately, growing your business.

🚀 See the full list here

Social Media Platforms

The Perfect Place to Showcase Your Business

In today’s digital age, having a presence on social media is practically a must for any small business looking to expand their online reach. With over 4 billion social media users worldwide, these platforms provide an incredible opportunity for small businesses to connect with potential customers, showcase their products or services, and build a loyal following.

Here’s a quick overview of some of the most popular social media platforms where small businesses can claim their business:

Facebook

With over 2.8 billion active users, Facebook is the largest social media platform in the world. Creating a Facebook page for your business is a great way to connect with potential customers, share updates and promotions, and build a community around your brand.

Instagram

As one of the fastest-growing social media platforms, Instagram is perfect for businesses that rely on visual content to showcase their products or services. By creating an Instagram profile for your business, you can share high-quality photos and videos, connect with potential customers, and even sell products directly through the platform.

Twitter

With its fast-paced, real-time nature, Twitter is ideal for businesses looking to engage with customers and stay on top of industry news and trends. By creating a Twitter account for your business, you can share updates and insights, interact with customers, and even run targeted ad campaigns.

LinkedIn

If you’re running a B2B business, LinkedIn is a must-have social media platform. By creating a LinkedIn page for your business, you can connect with other professionals in your industry, showcase your expertise, and even recruit new employees.

🚀 See the full list here

The Importance of Having a Presence on Social Media

Having a strong presence on social media is no longer just a “nice to have” for small businesses – it’s a necessity. With so many potential customers spending hours each day on these platforms, it’s essential that businesses meet them where they are.

By creating engaging content, interacting with customers, and building a loyal following, businesses can increase brand awareness, drive website traffic, and ultimately boost sales.

How to Claim and Optimize Your Social Media Profiles

Claiming and optimizing your social media profiles is a relatively straightforward process. To get started, simply create an account on the platform of your choice and fill out your business information.

Be sure to include high-quality photos or graphics, a detailed description of your business, and any relevant contact information. Once your profile is set up, it’s important to regularly post engaging content and interact with your followers to keep them coming back for more.

Social media platforms are an essential tool for any small business looking to expand their online presence and connect with potential customers.

By creating engaging content, interacting with followers, and optimizing their profiles, small businesses can leverage the power of social media to build their brand, increase website traffic, and ultimately grow their business.

Industry-Specific Directories

Niche Listings for Your Niche Business

In addition to the general online directories we’ve already covered, there are also industry-specific directories that cater to businesses in particular niches. These directories can be incredibly valuable for small businesses looking to reach a highly targeted audience of potential customers. Here are a few examples:

Yelp

As one of the most popular review sites on the internet, Yelp is an essential directory for businesses in the food, hospitality, and entertainment industries. By claiming your business listing on Yelp, you can respond to reviews, showcase your business information, and even run targeted advertising campaigns.

TripAdvisor

If you run a travel or tourism-related business, claiming your listing on TripAdvisor is a must. With over 730 million reviews and opinions, TripAdvisor is the go-to source for travelers looking for recommendations on everything from hotels to restaurants to attractions.

Avvo

For businesses in the legal industry, Avvo is the premier directory for finding and connecting with clients. By claiming your listing on Avvo, you can showcase your legal expertise, respond to client reviews, and even participate in their Q&A forums to establish yourself as an authority in your field.

🚀 See the full list here

The Importance of Claiming Your Listing on Relevant Directories

Claiming your listing on relevant directories is an essential part of any small business’s online marketing strategy. Not only do these directories provide valuable exposure to potential customers, but they also help to establish your business as a credible authority in your industry. By claiming and optimizing your directory listings, you can improve your visibility in search results, increase website traffic, and ultimately drive more sales.

How to Claim and Optimize Your Directory Listing

The process of claiming and optimizing your directory listing can vary depending on the platform you’re using. In general, you’ll need to create an account on the directory and provide detailed information about your business, including your address, phone number, website, and business hours.

Be sure to include high-quality photos or graphics, respond to customer reviews, and regularly update your business information to keep it accurate and up-to-date.

Industry-specific directories can be a valuable tool for small businesses looking to reach a highly targeted audience of potential customers.

By claiming and optimizing your directory listings, you can establish your business as a credible authority in your industry, improve your visibility in search results, and ultimately drive more sales. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and claim those listings!

Local Directories

Small Business Listings for Your Local Community

While online directories can be a great way to reach a global audience, local directories are specifically designed to connect small businesses with potential customers in their own communities. Here are a few examples of local directories you might consider:

YellowPages

Once a staple of phone books everywhere, YellowPages has now transitioned to an online directory that allows businesses to connect with customers in their local area. By claiming your listing on YellowPages, you can make sure that your business is visible to customers searching for local services.

WhitePages

Similar to YellowPages, WhitePages is an online directory that allows users to search for businesses and individuals in their local area. By claiming your listing on WhitePages, you can make sure that potential customers can find your business contact information quickly and easily.

Local.com

As the name suggests, Local.com is a directory specifically designed for small businesses looking to reach customers in their local area. By claiming your listing on Local.com, you can improve your visibility in search results, increase website traffic, and ultimately drive more sales.

🚀 See the full list here

The Importance of Claiming Your Listing on Local Directories

Claiming your listing on local directories is an essential part of any small business’s online marketing strategy, especially if you rely heavily on local customers for your business. By making sure that your business is listed on relevant local directories, you can improve your visibility in local search results, make it easier for customers to find your business information, and ultimately drive more foot traffic to your physical location.

How to Claim and Optimize Your Listing on a Local Directory

Claiming and optimizing your listing on a local directory is generally a simple process that involves creating an account and providing detailed information about your business, including your address, phone number, website, and business hours. Be sure to include high-quality photos or graphics, respond to customer reviews, and regularly update your business information to keep it accurate and up-to-date.

Local directories are an essential tool for any small business looking to reach customers in their local community.

By claiming and optimizing your listing on relevant local directories, you can improve your visibility in search results, make it easier for customers to find your business information, and ultimately drive more sales. So don’t neglect your local listings – claim them today!

Niche Directories

Targeting Your Ideal Customer

While industry-specific directories like Yelp and TripAdvisor can be helpful for businesses in certain sectors, niche directories go one step further by targeting specific audiences or interests. Here are a few examples of niche directories you might consider:

Angi

Angi is a directory focused on home improvement services, with a particular emphasis on high-quality and reliable contractors. By claiming your listing on Angie’s List, you can tap into a market of homeowners actively seeking out trusted professionals for their projects.

Houzz

Houzz is a directory focused on interior design and home renovation services, with a particular emphasis on visual inspiration and design ideas. By claiming your listing on Houzz, you can showcase your work and attract customers who are looking for a specific aesthetic or style.

Zillow

While primarily known as a real estate website, Zillow also includes a directory of home services providers, such as contractors, landscapers, and cleaners. By claiming your listing on Zillow, you can reach potential customers who are actively searching for services related to homeownership.

🚀 See the full list here

The Importance of Claiming Your Listing on Niche Directories

Claiming your listing on niche directories can be particularly valuable for businesses with a specialized focus or target audience. By listing your business on a directory that caters specifically to your ideal customer, you can increase your visibility to the customers who are most likely to be interested in your services.

How to Claim and Optimize Your Listing on a Niche Directory

Claiming and optimizing your listing on a niche directory is similar to the process for other directories – you’ll need to create an account and provide detailed information about your business. However, because niche directories often cater to a more specific audience, you may want to tailor your profile to highlight the aspects of your business that will be most relevant to that audience.

Niche directories can be a valuable tool for small businesses looking to reach a specific audience or target customer.

By claiming and optimizing your listing on relevant niche directories, you can increase your visibility to the customers who are most likely to be interested in your services, and ultimately drive more sales.

So don’t be afraid to get specific – find the niche directories that are right for your business and start listing today!

Full List of Directories and Websites

Here is a list of over 50 sites that businesses should consider listing their website on:

Google My Business

Allows businesses to show up in Google’s local search results and on maps. It’s free and easy to use.

https://www.google.com/business/

Bing Places

https://www.bingplaces.com/

Similar to Google My Business, Bing Places allows businesses to claim their listing and appear in local search results on Bing.

Yahoo Local

https://smallbusiness.yahoo.com/local-listings/

Yahoo Local allows businesses to create a profile and appear in local search results on Yahoo.

Yelp

https://www.yelp.com/

Yelp is a popular review site that allows businesses to claim their listing and manage their online reputation.

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/business/help/742163039280295

Facebook allows businesses to create a page and connect with customers, post updates, and advertise to a targeted audience.

LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/business/get-listed

LinkedIn allows businesses to create a company page and showcase their products or services to a professional audience.

Instagram

Instagram is a popular photo and video-sharing platform that allows businesses to create a profile, post updates, and reach a younger audience. https://www.instagram.com/business/

Twitter

Twitter allows businesses to create a profile and post updates to connect with customers and build their brand. https://business.twitter.com/en/get-started.html

YouTube

YouTube is a video-sharing platform that allows businesses to create a channel and showcase their products or services through video content. https://www.youtube.com/business/

Tripadvisor

Tripadvisor is a popular travel review site that allows businesses in the hospitality industry to claim their listing and manage their online reputation. https://www.tripadvisor.com/GetListedNew –

Zillow

Zillow is a real estate website that allows businesses in the industry to create a profile and showcase their properties to potential buyers. https://www.zillow.com/advertising/agent/advertising-products/

Avvo

Avvo is a legal directory that allows lawyers to create a profile and connect with potential clients.  https://www.avvo.com/advertising/lawyers

Houzz

Houzz is a home improvement and design website that allows businesses in the industry to create a profile and showcase their work to potential customers. https://www.houzz.com/getStarted

Thumbtack

Thumbtack is a service that matches customers with local professionals and allows businesses to create a profile and connect with potential clients. https://www.thumbtack.com/pro

Angi

Angi (formerly Angie’s List) is a home services directory that allows businesses in the industry to create a profile and connect with potential customers. https://www.angi.com/pro/advertising/

HomeAdvisor

HomeAdvisor is a home services directory that allows businesses in the industry to create a profile and connect with potential customers. https://www.homeadvisor.com/pro/

Porch

Porch is a home services directory that allows businesses in the industry to create a profile and connect with potential customers. https://porch.com/pro

YellowPages

YellowPages is a local business directory that allows businesses to create a profile and connect with potential customers. https://www.yellowpages.com/

WhitePages

WhitePages is a directory that allows businesses to create a profile and be found by potential customers. https://www.whitepages.com/

Manta

Manta is a business directory that allows businesses to create a profile and connect with potential customers. https://www.manta.com/

Foursquare

Foursquare is a location-based social network that allows businesses to create a profile and connect with customers who are nearby. https://foursquare.com/business/

Citysearch

Citysearch is a local business directory that allows businesses to create a profile and connect with potential customers. https://www.citysearch.com/

Superpages

Superpages is a local business directory that allows businesses to create a profile and connect with potential customers. https://www.superpages.com/

DexKnows

DexKnows is a local business directory that allows businesses to create a profile and connect with potential customers. https://www.dexknows.com/

Local.com

Local.com is a local business directory that allows businesses to create a profile and connect with potential customers. https://www.local.com/

Chamber of Commerce

The Chamber of Commerce allows businesses to create a profile and connect with other businesses in their local community. https://www.chamberofcommerce.com/

Better Business Bureau

The Better Business Bureau allows businesses to create a profile and showcase their commitment to ethical business practices. https://www.bbb.org/

Alignable

Alignable is a social network for small business owners that allows businesses to create a profile and connect with other businesses in their local community. https://www.alignable.com/

MerchantCircle

MerchantCircle is a local business directory that allows businesses to create a profile and connect with potential customers. https://www.merchantcircle.com/

Hotfrog

Hotfrog is a local business directory that allows businesses to create a profile and connect with potential customers. https://www.hotfrog.com/

Cylex

Cylex is a local business directory that allows businesses to create a profile and connect with potential customers. https://www.cylex.us.com/

ShowMeLocal

ShowMeLocal is a local business directory that allows businesses to create a profile and connect with potential customers. https://www.showmelocal.com/

GetFave

GetFave is a local business directory that allows businesses to create a profile and connect with potential customers. https://www.getfave.com/

2findlocal

2findlocal is a local business directory that allows businesses to create a profile and connect with potential customers. https://www.2findlocal.com/

Brownbook

Brownbook is a global business directory that allows businesses to create a profile and be found by potential customers. https://www.brownbook.net/

CitySquares

CitySquares is a local business directory that allows businesses to create a profile and connect with potential customers. https://citysquares.com/

Yellowbook

Yellowbook is a local business directory that allows businesses to create a profile and connect with potential customers. https://www.yellowbook.com/

eLocal

eLocal is a local business directory that allows businesses to create a profile and connect with potential customers. https://www.elocal.com/

My Huckleberry

My Huckleberry is a local business directory that allows businesses to create a profile and connect with potential customers. https://www.myhuckleberry.com/

EZlocal

EZlocal is a local business directory that allows businesses to create a profile and connect with potential customers. https://www.ezlocal.com/

LocalStack

LocalStack is a local business directory that allows businesses to create a profile and connect with potential customers. https://localstack.com/

Tupalo

Tupalo is a local business directory that allows businesses to create a profile and connect with potential customers. https://tupalo.com/

YellowBot

YellowBot is a local business directory that allows businesses to create a profile and connect with potential customers. https://www.yellowbot.com/

CallUpContact

CallUpContact is a local business directory that allows businesses to create a profile and connect with potential customers. https://www.callupcontact.com/

Lacartes

Lacartes is a global business directory that allows businesses to create a profile and be found by potential customers. https://www.lacartes.com/

LocalPages

LocalPages is a local business directory that allows businesses to create a profile and connect with potential customers. https://www.localpages.com/

OpenTable

OpenTable is a platform for restaurants to manage their online reservations and connect with potential customers. https://www.opentable.com/

Benefits of listing on these websites and directories may include increased visibility to potential customers, improved search engine rankings, and the ability to manage and showcase a business’s online reputation. It’s important for small businesses to take advantage of these free or low-cost resources to maximize their online presence and reach a wider audience.

Conclusion

Claim Your Business Everywhere You Can!

Well, folks, we’ve covered a lot of ground in this article, but hopefully you’re feeling more equipped to tackle the task of claiming your small business online. Let’s quickly recap the websites and directories we’ve discussed:

Google My Business
Claim and optimize your business listing on Google’s search results page to increase visibility and provide key information to potential customers.

Other search engine business listings
Don’t forget about other search engines like Bing and Yahoo! which have their own business directories.

Social media platforms
Establish a presence on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to connect with customers and showcase your business.

Industry-specific directories
Sites like Yelp, TripAdvisor, and Avvo can help customers find businesses in specific industries.

Local directories
Listings on local directories such as YellowPages, WhitePages, and Local.com can help customers find businesses in their area.

Niche directories:
Niche directories like Angie’s List, Houzz, and Zillow can help businesses in specific industries or niches get noticed by potential customers.

Phew! That’s a lot to cover, but it’s all important. Remember, claiming your business online is critical to its success in today’s digital age.

By taking the time to claim and optimize your listings on these various sites, you’re increasing your business’s visibility and making it easier for customers to find you.

If you’re ready to dive further into digital marketing for your business, join the SMART Arsenal and get digital marketing training, over 10k worth of DFY templates, and hands on training – find out more about this amazing small business marketing program here.