Does Yext Directory Listings Help with Links?

[Tim_Jacquet]

​Question: Does Yext Directory Listings Help with Links? They have 53 directories and I am trying to find out if this service is going to help building our links?

[TakeshiYoung]

Directory links don't pass much link value, but it can still be useful to be listed in the top directories for local citations. Yext can automate the process if you're short on time & resources, but you can also submit to the directories manually for full control of the process.

They even provide a list of all the directories they submit to:

http://www.yext.com/blog/tag/business-directories/

[MiriamEllis]

Hi Timothy,

The purpose of building citations on local business directories (whether manually or via a paid service like Yext) is to build up the authority of your basic business data (your business NAP - name, address, phone number) so that people can find your business in a variety of places and so that all of the data proves that you have a consistent, specific brand name, physical location, local phone number and website.

I am not aware of a list of which directories, specifically, pass page rank, but trying to look at this from Google's perspective - Google would be aware that most directory listings are built by the business owner. In other words, the links they contain are being intentionally built by the business itself. Thus, I would assume that even those directory links which do pass page rank are not going to be as highly valued as links you earn in other ways (voluntary mentions, guest posting, etc.).

Because of this, I don't consider citation building to be equivalent to link building. The latter requires additional and different efforts.

[danatanseo]

I agree with Takeshi. One thing that no one has mentioned here is GetListed.org  (which Moz purchased in 2012 or 2013). Although their evaluation tool can be a bit wonky, it is helpful in identifying which directories your business may or may not be in, and there is an interface that helps you submit your listings manually which is completely free. If you have more time than money, this can be a good alternative to services like Yext. Hope that helps. Cheers!

Dana