What are your thoughts on Yext?

[Boogily]

I'm starting to get more local clients. I've been using Whitespark for some local stuff, which I think is powerful -- yet sometimes hard to use. I've seen Yext around, and SEO Moz has a special discount for them (for pro members).

I've read about directories, even this good read including Blekko. http://www.seomoz.org/blog/using-blekkos-seo-data-to-evaluate-web-directories-14678 but I feel at least drawn to give Yext a shot, who knows, maybe they could wow me.

Anyone used them? Or recommend one way or the other? Thanks

[CaseyKluver]

Hi Ryan,

I havent actually used their full services, I do find this free tool VERY helpful http://www.yext.com/diagnostic.html when comparing my listings across the board. Judging from the quality of that one free tool, I would say the rest should be worth it!

[Stevej24]

Interesting, but it looks like it is US only?

[Boogily]

Believe so, I think for now it focuses on local US campaigns.

[MiriamEllis]

Hi Ryan,

Thanks for coming to Q&A with your question. Am I right in thinking that you are asking for opinions on Yext's Power Listing service? You didn't mention this specifically, but I'm guessing this is the product you are considering.

I haven't personally used or test-run any Yext tools, but I thought you would be interested in this piece by Nyagoslav Zhekov - a colleague for whom I've come to feel increasing respect over the past year in the Local sphere. Here is his piece, published around the launch of Yext's tool:

http://www.optilocal.org/uncategorized/yext-a-good-way-to-straighten-your-nap/

Also, a good discussion on Greg Sterling's blog:

http://www.screenwerk.com/2011/04/25/yext-tags-survives-now-powerlistings/

Also some good comments on this TechCrunch piece from around the same time:

http://techcrunch.com/2011/11/17/yext-powerlistings-30-000/

I thought these would be some good, unbiased resources to consider while you are making up your mind about whether you'd like to move forward with Yext.

Hope this helps!

Miriam

[MiriamEllis]

Hi Stevej24, Just thought I'd respond to your comment. According to the Optilocal post I linked to in my longer response to Ryan: Howard Lerman (CEO of Yext) confirmed that an expansion in Europe and Australia is scheduled. However, according to him this would not happen before 2013. So, looks like expansion will happen in a year or more. Cheers! Miriam