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What are backlinks, and why are they important for SEO? 

A backlink is a link from one website to another. Backlinks are important for SEO because they help search engines discover new and relevant information about your website. Additionally, backlinks can provide your site with additional credibility and trustworthiness because it signals to search engines that your content is of high quality and authoritative. 
 
The most beneficial backlinks are those that come from authoritative sources. This includes other websites in your industry or the local area, as well as respected research institutions, government agencies, and educational organisations. 

Local Citations 

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Local citations are another way to add backlinks to your website and are an important factor for any local business hoping to appear in Google search engine results. Citations refer to references on other websites of your company’s “Name, Address, and Phone Number” (NAP). Having your NAP information mentioned on social networking sites, review or directory sites, apps, and other web pages can help people find your businesses online and can also boost local search engine rankings by helping search engines understand where you’re located and what services you offer in the area. 

Online Directories 

When people search for businesses online, they often use online directories to find the information they need. By listing your business in these directories, you can make it easier for potential customers to find you. In addition, many online directories also factor in the quality of your listing when ranking businesses in local search results. This means that by taking the time to create a complete and accurate listing, you can improve your chances of appearing higher in local search results. 
 
Here are a few tips for creating a great online directory listing: 
Make sure your listing is complete and accurate. Include all the important information that potential customers might need, such as your business name, address, phone number, and website. 
Take advantage of extra sections where additional information, website links, and photos can be added. 
Use relevant keywords in your listing. This will help people find your business when they search for relevant terms. 
Keep your listing up to date. Make sure to update your listing whenever your business information changes. 
 
By following these tips, you can create an online directory listing that will help you reach more potential customers and improve your local search ranking. 

23 online directories to get your business listed on 

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Here are a few of the directories we recommend you list your business on, to get you started: 

Search Engines 

Search engine listings are a great way to get your business found online. Google is the world's number one search engine, but don't forget to list your business on Bing Places too, so that your business can get found on Bing search results and Bing Maps. 

Business Directories with free listings 

These business directories offer free business listings and free business advertising for UK based businesses. 

Business to Business Directories 

These platforms offer free listings for UK Business to Business companies. 

Business Directories 

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These business directories offer great opportunities to get your business noticed online. There may be a charge to get listed on these platforms.  

Summary 

Local citations are an important element of SEO for local businesses, as they help search engines associate your business with a particular location and can help you appear higher in local search engine results.  
 
To get started with local citations, add your business details to some, or all, of the directories listed above, and also look for some directories that specialise in the industry your business is in. And remember to keep the information about your business consistent and to update your listing whenever your business information changes. 
It’seeze Windsor is a specialist website design company that offers businesses affordable website packages and ongoing expert support. Our high-quality, professional web design services are ideal for start-ups and small businesses in Windsor. Not sure if your existing website is working for you? We also offer a free Website Health Check that highlights the areas where improvements can be made. Call us today to create the website of your dreams and turn your business into a success. 
 
Tagged as: Online Marketing, SEO
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