Submitting a URL to search engine friendly online directories is a great way to increase the link popularity of a site.  There are literally hundreds of online directories available.  While the vast majority of these directories are free, there are also some that require payment and/or a reciprocal link back to their site.  The general recommendation is to skip these directories initially as there are hundreds of directories that require nothing more than a submission.  That said, don't be surprised if only 20%-30% of the free directories pick up a URL after the first submission.  After all, they are free directories...they're under absolutely no obligation to list any URL.  Don't give up!  Remember - link popularity has a greater impact on ranking than any other single aspect of SEO!!

Finding free online directories can be a daunting task.  As such, we have provided a link to Info Vilesilencer as a great starting point.  In no way should that list be considered all-inclusive, but it is a great resource that provides a list of well over 500 search engine friendly directories in one place.  Not only do they provide "newly listed" directories, but also an A-Z list, as well as a downloadable Excel version of their complete list. 

 

Submitting a URL to Online Directories

  1. Surf each directory's site to find the most relevant category in which to list the site.
  2. Find the link to submit the site (this link may be any where on the page and usually says something like: "submit your site", "add url", or something similar).
    • If given a choice, choose the "free" or "regular" listing option - though you may choose to pay for inclusion in the directories that provide that option if you wish to guarantee that the site is listed.
    • Be sure review the terms & conditions carefully to determine the cost-effectiveness of any paid inclusion links.
  3. Directories typically ask for 3 things:
    • First will be the title - this is what is going to be used to link to the site.
      • Never use the same title for all the directory link submissions.  
      • Try to vary it between 2 or 3 different titles - use the business name and most important keywords/keyword phrases that apply to the site.
    • Next is typically the description.
      • Use the site's META description.
      • This information can be found by reviewing the HTML code of the site or the site builder control panel.
    • The third, and typically final, step is to input the keywords that apply to the website.
      • Again, use the site's META keywords.
      • This information can also be found by reviewing the HTML code of the site or the site builder control panel.

 

Don't stop with the free online directory list provided by Info Vilesilencer.  There are lots of other directories out there, as well as industry specific organizations that provide information about local service providers to consumers.  Pet Sitters International, for instance, provides their members with a brief profile that includes a link.  BBB members are also offered a profile page that can include a live hyperlink, as well. 

Remember, if each link is like a vote for your website, links from well-known and industry specific organizations with high PageRank statistics are more like celebrity endorsements - they may only be able to cast one vote for a political candidate, but their endorsement might have a greater impact than that one vote.