How to List a Company

List company information so consumers can find you easily.

Businesses list company information in many places such as directories, advertisements, brochures, business cards and websites. List company information in order to help consumers locate your business and find out more about your company. Some media formats, such as directories, require companies to list data in a specific format. Other media formats, such as paid advertisements, give companies the opportunity to enter information freely. In either case, stick to business listing standards to maximize listing effectiveness.

Instructions

1. List company name in all types of media and publications to develop brand recognition. If consumers see your name often, they are more likely to patronize your business in the future. Include your company logo alongside the company name if the media type allows for graphics, as this will enhance your branding and name recognition.

2. List your website URL if your company has a website. A good business website contains all relevant information that a new customer would need. For online and email business listings, listing the URL takes precedence over other contact information since a visitor can find out all other contact information by visiting the website. In addition, make your URL clickable if listing online.

3. List phone number and fax number including your area code. Include country code, as well, for international listings. If you list a 1-800 number, list an alternative phone number for international listings as 1-800 numbers are not toll free outside the U.S. List cell phone numbers if you generally give these out.

4. List the business's physical address including building number, street name, city, state and zip code. The physical address is especially important if you are listing a local business where consumers need your address to visit you in person.

5. List a company email address even if you already listed a website URL. If you have the space, list several email addresses for different functions. For example, list an email address for sales, an email address for customer service, an email address for the marketing department and an email address for general inquiries.

6. List your company's slogan or tagline. If you do not have a slogan, summarize your business in a short statement such as "Law Firm for Small Businesses," or "Experienced Occupational Therapist Specializing in Children."

7. Write a brief company description if you have room. Include number of years in business, key products or services, well-known customers and unique qualities that differentiate you from competitors.

8. List your most popular products or services as keyword phrases for online listings that ask for keywords. Choose keywords carefully as these will enable visitors to find your company listing when searching the media website.

References

• Marketing Systems Group: Yellow Page Based Business Samples
• On-Line Consultant: IT Yellow Pages Sample Listing Formats
• Entrepreneur: Creating a Great Business Card
• Biz Card Templates

Resources

• Sacramento State University Library Home Business: Company and Industry Research Guide
• Nielsen Norman Group: Presenting Company Information on Corporate Websites