Do you think listing in directories can help your business?

I moved this over to a new thread, as it's a fair question, and I didn't want it to take over the previous thread.


Short answer, no. Long answer 'ish

May sound surprising coming from a directory owner, but there are thousands out there, and most are just script generated rubbish. Most are of the web directory format, hundreds of links, no obvious order on a single page. Low quality, and stay clear.

Online Business Directories normally have a better structure with dedicated pages for individual businesses.

In the old days, it was simply about getting lots of links, of which directories was a good source. This still has some truth, and depending on the directory, links still have a good value back to your site. But directory links alone will give you little benefit, unless part of a larger natural linking strategy.

There is one thing a lot of people over look, and that directories should aim to generate exposure. In otherwords your business listing should be generating targeted traffic.

If you have the ability to edit text, upload pics and stuff, then make the most of it. Traffic on your business listing is no guarantee of someone picking up the phone if you're listing looks dull and uninviting.

Rather than the widely age old forecasted demise of the directory, directories are now being used as "citation" sources by the search engines. A citation in Google speak is a reference or validation of your business address. The more citations you have, in theory adds weight to the way Google views your business in the local search world, primarily on Google+, and also within the search results.

Obviously I'm biased, but someone who knows this area well is Nyagoslav Zhekov (although quite frankly needs to post a bit more reguarly ) who has become a bit of a renowned expert in the Local Citation building field.

But as a marketing strategy, just listing in directories, I'd stick with my original answer and say no. Its always a blended approach that works, on/offline, social media, SEO etc.

Thank you Steve, for making a new thread. I am also a little bit controversial about the directories, although The Legal Stop is being registered in many directories monthly. I can see some results, but cannot be certain they`ve come from the directories, as we do many other things to improve our online presence. I am curious to see what other business owners have to say about it.

Have to agree with Steve's points. Signing up to a multitude of directories won't reap any great advantages. These days it's all about the networking and interaction!

Long time no see! Networking and interaction is important, but it's still the blended approach that works best. Forums and social media, particularly Google + at the moment are a good way of ticking lots of boxes, interaction, link and exposure. But you also need to make sure you are seen in search results, and consider offline opportunities as well.

Networking and interaction are very good, but they cost lost of time and you never know how many of these people will actually be your clients. That`s why we are all trying to find ways which will work for us, while we focus on more important things.

Well, what should I say ... I know how they work, though I'm not a veteran in the business but I think if you find a real gem than it's worth a try. We could talk about links and referrals and traffic... and who knows what but try to think with a user's head. Sometimes a well structured business directory can be more useful for the user in comparison with a website designed by it's owner, who doesn't even know what design or usability is. Correct me if I'm wrong but I've met a few people who were hard to deal with when it was about design, or what should be placed on the site and where... I don't even mention seo...

So what I'm saying is quality directories offer you a full page (named: presentation page or listing) where you can place your most important information that you want to share with potential clients, such as contact details, logo upload, opening hours, product exposure (placed in a rotating carousel -this one is my favourite :P ), even news or sell-buy offer exposure, business introduction facility, maps and so on.

I'm not saying that every business should have directory business listing but if you find a great one then try to get the best out of it, and use every single service they provide.