What is a web directory exactly? They are a classification of websites under specific categories and sub categories. Your site will be reviewed and must be approved by an editor. You site will get listed under the best match in their directory. Some directories charge for this service and some are still FREE. The theory is when your site is listed in the directory it makes it easier for the search engines to classify your website based on the key terms in the titles that have been submitted in the directories. It gives your website a chance of ranking higher for searches targeting those keywords. The higher your site ranks the more visibility it gains and more traffic to your site will come.
I have read recently that web directories may be going away, or not be as important to SEO, as social media and blogging has more of an impact on Search Engine Optimization. So I really began to wonder was it worth all the time and effort it takes to submit to directories? There was so much controversy on this topic everywhere I looked. Most agreed it still plays a role. I went to one of my favorite sources - Hubspot. They claim it still plays a role but for you to be cautious of directories that charge money for submitting your website. They also said it has the least mojo for your SEO.
I did find 2 directories that did bring direct traffic to us. They are:
Hot Frog and Merchant Circle - They are not your typical directories because you can add products, blogs, more information about your website and products and connections on their site than the typical web directories offer. We also get traffic through specific directories related to nursing.
So if you decide to submit to web directories be picky and selective in your choices and carefully submit your titles and website information. It is a lengthy process and some take months to approve.
Have you submitted your website or blog to web directories? And have you found any traffic from them if you have?
