01/02/10 Local business search and free directories for business owners back to blog
People are now predominantly using search engines rather than the paper and phone directories to find local businesses . There are many online directories for consumers to choose from in the UK and most provide a free listing to companies . As around 85% of searches in the UK are carried out using Google , their local business search in maps is fast becoming the top directory. If you search for Pizza delivery London in Google you will find that local business pushes normal organic search below the fold allowing companies a great opportunity to gain visibility in results . It is also becoming increasingly important with the rise in searches being performed on mobile phones . Many companies will already be listed , their details drawn from other directory sources . It is rumoured that a disgruntled American kid considering his happy meal was not up to standard claimed and deleted his local McDonalds listing , companies should not allow others the same opportunity . Once a listing is claimed it can be optimized and additional information like pictures , opening hours and products & services added ( please find link to my listing in the electrician category as an example ) . Bing and Yahoo , the other major search engines in the UK provide a similar service . I have provided below the top 21 directories in the UK and if you have not already claimed your listing I would urge you to do so . There are also directories specific to several different types of product or service where it would also be of benefit to claim or register a listing . Another good point to note is that in many of the directories customer reviews are an important ranking factor and you should encourage them to do so .
Google Local Business Centre
Yell
Bing
Yahoo
Free Index
Scoot
bizwiki
yelp
tipped
Hot Frog
Trusted places
Touch Local
Up my street
192
More UK
Smile Local
U find us
UK small business directory
Thomson Local
Local Mole
Access Place
RB Grant Electrical Contractors , Office 17 , Myregormie Place, Kirkcaldy, Fife , KY1 3NA
RB Grant Electrical Contractors , Errinwell , Denhead , St Andrews , Fife , KY16 8PB