How to Keep Your Directory Listings Accurate and Consistent
Your directory listings are often the first place a potential client sees your business. If the information is inconsistent, outdated, or incorrect, it can impact your credibility and hurt your visibility. Keeping your listings accurate is not just a one-time task—it’s an ongoing part of managing your online presence.
Why Accuracy and Consistency Matter
Search engines like Google use the consistency of your Name, Address, and Phone Number (NAP) across platforms as a ranking factor. Even minor differences—like using 'Suite 200' on one listing and 'Ste. 200' on another—can dilute your credibility in the eyes of search algorithms.
Inconsistent listings also confuse clients. If someone finds multiple addresses or outdated phone numbers, they may lose confidence or choose another advisor who seems more established online.
What to Check Across Listings
Here’s what you should review regularly across your listings:
Business name spelling and formatting
Address (street, suite number, city, state, ZIP)
Phone number format and area code
Website URL (ensure HTTPS and correct domain)
Business description and services
Office hours
Photos or logos used
Credentials and certifications
Links to social media or reviews
Tools and Strategies to Keep Listings in Sync
The easiest way to ensure consistency is to keep a central record of all listing information. We recommend using a Listing Tracker, such as our downloadable spreadsheet, where you can monitor where your firm is listed, the status of each listing, and the last time it was updated.
Other helpful strategies include:
Schedule quarterly reviews of all live listings
Use Google Alerts to track changes in online mentions
Assign a team member or vendor to manage updates across platforms
Regularly check auto-generated listings to claim or remove duplicates
When to Update Your Listings
You should review and update your listings any time there’s a change in your:
- Business name or rebranding
- Office location or phone number
- Services or niche offerings
- New credentials or certifications
- Office hours or appointment availability
Even if nothing has changed, checking each listing every 3 to 6 months can prevent outdated information from lingering online.
Need Help Staying Organized?
Shared Vision Studios offers tools and support to help financial advisors keep their directory listings accurate, consistent, and fully optimized. Use our Directory Intake Form and Listing Tracker to simplify the process, or let us manage it for you.