In 2018 and beyond, the way your business performs in the digital world will act as a key indicator of your success, both online and off. That’s why it’s imperative that you keep up to speed with the latest techniques to boost your business’s visibility online. What’s a great way to give your financial company more traction in 2018? Getting listed on an online business directory. Here’s how it can help.
Increase Your Online Visibility
In the sea of online businesses, making sure you stand out from the crowd is vital. By creating a comprehensive, high-quality profile on a business directory, you’re increasing the likelihood that people seeking financial services will find your company.
And, once they’ve found your listing, your detailed profile will give your business more credibility than your unlisted competitors; the more information publicly available about your organization, the more transparent you will appear to potential clients.
Additionally, while SEO techniques are constantly evolving, search engines still hold well-indexed business directories in high regard. This means that listing your financial business on a free directory will also dramatically improve your position in Google searches, increasing your overall digital visibility.
Improve Your Brand
With consumers being given more and more choices about who they want to do business with, having a strong personal brand is crucial. A recent Nielson study found that recommendations from friends and family were considered the most credible form of advertising. Advertising on branded or trusted websites, like online business directories, came in at a close second, with 70% of respondents deeming them reliable.
In sum, having a presence on these sites not only helps legitimize your business, but also offers opportunities for clients to provide reviews that can give you a strong competitive edge.
Forge Industry Connections
Another major reason to list your financial business on an online directory is the networking opportunities it provides.
An industry-specific directory, in particular, will help you keep up with advances in your field and monitor competitor growth. Although professional directories vary in the benefits they provide, many offer discussion forums where you can explore ideas with your peers and establish yourself as a thought-leader.
Other common incentives to join up include access to industry journals and research, invitations to upcoming seminars and even the ability to post job listings.
You can also use interactive features on these directories as a “warm call” when trying to start a relationship with others in your field. Think of it as a more personal version of handing out your business card.
Which Online Directory Should You Join?
There are numerous free professional organizations out there, but we recommend you start with all-stars like:
- FirstWebHub(retired site)
- Crunchbase
And finance specific platforms such as:
- Transaction Advisors
- AFP (which hosts the largest financial networking conference annually)
Adding your business to an online directory is a free and easy way to both increase your exposure and create important connections within your industry. Don’t delay – list your business today.
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