If you don’t know what a link directory looks like, check out the most famous example: DMOZ. According to DMOZ, they are the “most comprehensive human-reviewed directory on the web.” When you think of a web directory, think of DMOZ.
Directories are simply libraries that catalog websites into hierarchies of content. Just like a real library, a web directory classifies and organizes websites (books) based on subject in a hierarchical manner.
Good directories provide a useful tool for researchers and general web hobbyists to “dig deeper” and get the best information available.
Below I’ve outlined a simple process on how you can use web directories to help you improve your search engine rankings.
Step 1: Research and Review
Your first step should be to research and review the web directories that are available to post your link to. I recommend doing a Google search for the phrase “web directory” or “keyword + submission URL”. Look at the top 10 results. These should be your focus when starting out.
Go through your 10 results and review each site using the following criteria:
1. Do you allow external link submissions?
2. If so, what are your guidelines?
3. What are your registration policies?
If a directory accepts external submissions and you are comfortable with the terms of service and submission guidelines, sign up for an account. If a site does not require registration, make sure it is not a link farm.
I also recommend looking at the design of this site, confirming that it has a purpose, and making sure that you can communicate with the webmaster.
Step 2 – Develop Your Site Description
Once you’ve compiled the directories to submit your link to, write several directory listing descriptions. These descriptions should be approximately 250 words or less in length. It should be a description, or a general description, of the purpose of your website. Ask yourself, why would someone click on my link to visit my website? A brief description of what you do, your services or your products is all you need.
Once you have your description and link ready, now it’s time to start submitting.
Step 3 – Submit your links
Submission is a fairly easy process. Be sure not to submit to a general directory, unless your site fits. Take the time to figure out which topic heading your link should be placed under. It doesn’t have to be an exact match, but it should be close.
You can also outsource the work if you don’t like repetition. However, if you do, be very careful that whoever does the work only submits to legitimate directories. Give them the directories you ranked above.
Make sure you know where your link is being sent, and of course, make sure your link service provider keeps you posted.
Directory Linking Efficiency
Getting your link listed in directories is an effective and easy way to get indexed and get relevant links to your website.
If you take your time, research the top directory sites, and provide an accurate description of your site, your linking efforts will start driving traffic to your website and give you the backlinks you need to move up in the search engines.
Using directories along with article submission is a great combination that will help you rank well and establish yourself as an authority in your field.