A citation is an online mention of your business’s name, address, and phone number (NAP) on external websites or directories.
In local SEO, citations play a key role in building your business’s online presence and credibility. They appear on platforms like online business directories (e.g., Yelp, Yellow Pages, Google Business Profile), review sites, and local blogs or news outlets.
Unlike backlinks, citations don’t always include a hyperlink—but they still count as signals that help search engines verify a business’s legitimacy and relevance to a local area.
Why Citations Matter in SEO:
- Boost Local SEO Rankings – Search engines use citations to confirm a business’s location and existence.
- Increase Online Visibility – Appear in more local search directories and map results.
- Build Trust – Consistent citations across trusted sites enhance your business’s credibility.
- Improve NAP Consistency – Accurate NAP data avoids confusion for both users and algorithms.
Types of Citations:
- Structured Citations – Appear in business listings (Google Business Profile, Yelp, etc.) in a fixed format.
- Unstructured Citations – Appear in blog posts, news articles, or social media where your NAP is mentioned casually.
Best Practices:
- Keep your Name, Address, and Phone number consistent across all platforms.
- List your business on high-authority local directories.
- Use citation management tools like Moz Local, Yext, or BrightLocal.
- Update outdated or incorrect listings promptly.
Example:
A Yelp listing with your business’s name, address, and phone number—whether linked or unlinked—is a citation.
