Local citations
What are local citations?
A local citation is any online mention of a business’s name, address and phone number (NAP), for example on directories, review sites, maps, chamber of commerce pages and local news. Citations can be structured (a directory listing) or unstructured (a mention in an article).
Consistent citations help search engines trust that a business exists where it says it does.
Why local citations matter
Citations support local search visibility and help customers find correct details. Inconsistent or outdated citations are a common, fixable problem for small businesses, and a common service agencies sell to them.
Related marketing terms
NAP stands for name, address and phone number: the core business details that should be identical everywhere a business is listed.
Google Business Profile is a business’s free listing on Google Search and Maps, with its address, hours, phone, website, photos and reviews.
Review management is collecting, monitoring and responding to customer reviews on sites such as Google, G2, Trustpilot and app stores.