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Wikipedia Guide

Wikipedia Article Guidelines for Businesses

Business articles on Wikipedia must follow the same core standards as other topics: verifiable content, reliable independent sources, neutral tone, and compliance with conflict-of-interest expectations. Understanding these guidelines early helps avoid common mistakes.

Published 2026-11-10 · Updated 2026-11-10

Start with core content policies

Wikipedia’s core content policies shape every business article. Verifiability means readers should be able to check important claims against reliable sources. Neutral point of view means the article should present information fairly, without promotional language or advocacy.

No original research is also important. A business article should summarize what reliable published sources say, not introduce new claims, interpretations, or marketing narratives that lack independent support.

Understand company notability expectations

For organizations and companies, notability is commonly established through significant coverage in reliable, independent secondary sources. Routine database listings, press releases, self-published profiles, and paid content are usually not enough by themselves.

Before drafting, businesses should assess whether coverage is substantial, independent, and focused on the company. Topic-specific notability guidance can help, but each case still depends on the quality and context of available sources.

Write in an encyclopedic style

Business articles should use clear, factual language. Avoid slogans, superlatives, unattributed praise, and long lists of products or services unless they are supported by reliable sources and presented proportionately.

Structure matters. A well-prepared draft usually includes only the most verifiable and relevant information, with citations placed near the claims they support. Content should reflect what independent sources emphasize, not internal marketing priorities.

Handle company involvement carefully

Employees, founders, agencies, and consultants may have a conflict of interest when editing about a business they represent. Paid-contribution disclosure and transparent participation help reduce risk and maintain trust.

When involvement creates COI concerns, it may be better to suggest changes with sources, seek feedback, or use an appropriate review process rather than making promotional direct edits. Policy-aware guidance can help determine the safest path.

Frequently asked questions

Can a business write its own Wikipedia article?
A business can gather sources and understand the process, but direct involvement can raise conflict-of-interest concerns. Neutrality, reliable sourcing, and transparent handling of paid or connected editing are important considerations.
What content should a business article include?
It should include only information supported by reliable independent sources, presented neutrally and proportionately. The exact content depends on what sources cover, not what the business wants to promote.
Do Wikipedia guidelines guarantee approval if followed?
No. Following guidelines improves quality and compliance, but independent Wikipedia editors make final decisions about content, inclusion, and retention.

References

External references are provided for general guidance. Wikipedia policies and community practices can change, so review the current source pages before making decisions.

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