Having a company Wikipedia page may seem like an outdated practice. After all, why invest time and resources in creating a page on a platform that is not directly under your control?
However, maintaining a company Wikipedia page can offer a range of benefits for companies. From a marketing perspective, it’s worth evaluating whether a corporate Wikipedia page is right for your organization.
What are the benefits of a corporate Wikipedia page?
Enhanced SEO
Wikipedia pages are SEO goldmines. They typically rank high in search engine results, making it easier for potential customers and partners to discover your company. Enhancing search engine optimization and brand authority can be especially valuable for small or lesser-known businesses looking to expand their reach.
Credibility and trust
Wikipedia is one of the most visited websites globally, and its pages are often at the top of search engine results. Having a company Wikipedia page lends a significant level of credibility and trust to a business because it demonstrates a commitment to transparency and providing accurate information to the public.
Objective information
A company Wikipedia page should provide an objective and factual account of your company’s history, products, and services. Because of its neutral nature, many see Wikipedia pages as more trustworthy than a company website or marketing materials, which can be biased.
Community involvement
Wikipedia is a collaborative platform, and anyone can edit its pages. While this can be a drawback, it also presents an opportunity for companies to engage with the Wikipedia community and contribute positively. A company can build goodwill among editors and users by actively participating in discussions and maintaining the page’s accuracy.
What are the potential downfalls of a corporate Wikipedia page?
Not enough notability
One of the core criteria for having a company Wikipedia page is notability. Wikipedia guidelines state that a subject must have received significant coverage in independent, reliable sources to be eligible for a page. Meeting these standards can be challenging if your company is relatively small or unknown.
Negative edits
While community involvement can be beneficial, it also opens the door to negative edits, as competitors, disgruntled customers, or individuals with ulterior motives can edit the page to your company’s detriment. Vigilant monitoring and constant upkeep are necessary to mitigate these risks.
Maintaining neutrality
Wikipedia’s policy of neutrality can be a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it ensures objective information, but on the other, it limits your ability to present your company the way you want. Marketers may find it challenging to strike a balance between providing accurate information and promoting their brand.
To Wikipedia or not to Wikipedia?
Is your health tech, IT or biotech company conflicted between creating or not creating a company Wikipedia page?
Consulting an expert healthcare tech marketing agency can help you weigh the pros and cons and navigate the complexities of community-driven environments.
