Citation / SEO Terms Citation In digital marketing and local SEO, a citation refers to any online mention of a business’s name, address and phone number (NAP). Citations appear on websites, local directories, social platforms and apps, helping search engines verify a business’s legitimacy and relevance in local search results. Consistent citations across multiple reputable platforms improve visibility in local packs, Google Maps and geo-targeted searches. There are two main types of citations: structured and unstructured. Structured citations appear in predefined formats on local business directories such as Yelp, Yellow Pages, Facebook and Google Business Profile. Unstructured citations can appear in blog posts, press mentions, news articles or industry-specific sites, where business information is referenced within the content. Both types contribute to a business’s online authority, but structured citations are especially important for boosting local rankings. Citation consistency is key. Even minor discrepancies in your business name, phone number or address can confuse search engines and weaken local SEO signals. Regularly auditing and updating your citations ensures accuracy and helps prevent duplicate listings. Tools like Moz Local, BrightLocal and Yext can streamline citation management across dozens of directories. For nonprofits and service-based organisations, accurate citations not only improve local search performance but also help users find the right contact information when they need it. When paired with strong reviews and a verified Google Business Profile, citations play a vital role in building trust and improving discoverability.