Internet Marketing Clinic

We often discuss the importance of  links to site performance, and recommend listing sites in various directories available on the web. This page is a reference to use for identifying possible locations on the web where one might productively place a link to a website.

We talk about getting listed in directories because these are good quality links as far as search engines are concerned. One of the reasons that these links from directories are of value is that a link will not be placed in a directory unless it meets the published standards and requirements for that directory. While this is a good quality from the point of view of getting the link, it also makes the link harder (at least, more tedious) to get, as each directory has its own organization, purpose, and requirements for listing. The only directory that we recommend listing in, and paying for, without reservation, is Yahoo. This is the premier directory on the web and has been for years, establishing a strong presence that provides a boost to every web site that is listed in it. This will cost $299 per year, and submitting a listing is no guarantee that you will be placed. For more information, go to their Yahoo Directory Submission page and read the requirements carefully before making your submission (and sending in your money!)

There are many other directories that one might consider, too long a list to provide here, but a listing is available at Strongest Links. I have used this list from time to time. Many of the details do not seem to be up-to-date, but this is a good place to start looking for directories for your site. I have also noticed that there are now sites that are offering to submit your listings for you (for a fee). I have never tried any of these, but you will find them by searching for “free directory listings” or some similar phrase. My personal view is that you would be far better off to do the work of submission yourself, although that does mean taking on a commitment to the process.

For businesses with a local connection, there are local-oriented search engines, and local features on general search engines, that focus on local results. Getting listed within these services can be extremely important for businesses serving a specific local area. These are the kinds of listings that result in maps on the search engine results pages that highlight listed businesses near the location of the searcher (as identified by the search engine through different processes).

Here is a short list of some of the more prominent services:

All of these sites offer to provide more visibility for a charge. It is an individual decision in each case to decide whether there is any benefit to paying for the upgrade. Some offer an opportunity to upgrade on a month to month basis, making it possible to experiment with a short term arrangement to see whether they actually produce any benefits. I take no position on this question except to say, “be careful where you spend your money!”

I also note that many of these sites have established listings for businesses already, so you should start your process by searching their listings to see if your business is there. If so, you will be offered the chance to “claim” your listing and then edit it to strengthen it. Many times, this can be done for free (with an upgrade always offered). You should definitely edit and enhance any listing you can that is free. These sites have listed many businesses in order to provide some value to their users, but their ultimate target is to get you to pay for your listing.