This is a question we are asked frequently, along with how beneficial directories truly are for the purposes of both SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) and driving additional, targeted traffic.
The truth is, there are hundreds of thousands of various different web directories online and some do have good qualities when it comes to driving additional traffic and of course, some have a good influence on SEO.
We would always advise that you be vigilant when looking into directories and to make sure you research the directories before you make the decision of inclusion.
Directories can be s good source of link building which is vital for SEO, however, in our experience it's mostly paid directories that are worth enlisting in with just a small amount of free web directories that we felt had an impact on SEO and traffic levels.
If they accept all submissions. If a directory accepts sites instantly by filling out a form, the directory can quickly be filled full of spam which could, if anything, have a an adverse effect on your site when listing on it.
If they require a reciprocol link. If a directory is reputable, the directory should be able to forge it's own traffic and rankings without having to rely on link exchange.
Premium sponsorships. You shouldn't be able or have to 'pay your way to the top' of a directory.
Choosing your own anchor text. Some directories allow you to choose your own anchor text, the problem is, directories with one niche could be spammed with 100's of links with the same anchor, causing the directory to look spammy.
No human reviews before accepting submissions. Directories that have a human accepting and rejecting submissions are always of better quality because they get to vet each and every submission and weed out potential spam. Auto-acceptance or 'guaranteed paid acceptance' is normally signs of a poor quality directory.
No Traffic. This one's a little tougher, but you could always check Alexa for an indication of traffic levels to a particular directory (although not 100% accurate by any means, but can give an indication) - obviously you want a directory with traffic to forge some targeted traffic as well as reap a potential SEO benefit.
We break down our top list of the best directories for SEO in 3 tiers, as some are still worth enlisting in, but the gains are far lesser than others.
Tier 1 Directories
1) The Yahoo Directory - A Paid directory, good traffic levels, human submission checking, strict guidelines and good effects on SEO.
2) Dmoz - Free directory, incredibly tough to get listed into, but gains are extremely good once listed.
3) Business.com - Paid directory, brilliant traffic levels, human submissions, lots of niches, strict guidelines and good effects on SEO.
Tier 2 Directories
2) IPL2
Tier 3 Directories
1) JoeAnt
2) Skaffe
3) Jayde
4) Ezilon
5) Gimpsy
6) GoGuides
Posted: 03/08/11 09:39
i3Search.Worx 2011 | PayDay Loans
