I had a conversation with someone a few months back that was convinced it was a good thing to use a different tracking number on every online directory. His thought process was this is a great way to see how much business you are getting from each directory. This is not the first person I have heard this from either, so let me go on record to say that this is a very bad idea. This is not what online directories are for, online directories are for creating a consistent NAP (company name, address and phone number) so Google can see consistency across the internet.
Creating directories known as citations in the internet marketing space does a few different things. First it’s a form of link building and it helps get your business listed on the Google Map. This is one of many things to get your business listed on the map and keep you there. Putting tracking numbers on these directories is a recipe for disaster. It will create an inconsistent NAP and lose your Google map listing. Which will be a much worse hit on your business than knowing that one or two people found you on Yelp.com.
Tracking numbers are a great thing to help you gauge what your marketing ROI is. We use tracking numbers on our clients websites but we do it in a way that does not hurt their NAP.
3 Correct Ways To Use Call Tracking Numbers The Right Way
1. Never use tracking numbers on online directories.
2. On your website tracking numbers should be using in a graphic on the header of the site or in a proxy that switches using a Javascript.
3. Always make sure your NAP is used on the contact us page and in the footer of the site.
Tracking numbers are great way to determine where your business is coming from, but they must be used the right way, if not they could cause more damage than good.
