SEO : Link Directories

The internet relies on links on signposts from one site to another in order to function. Before search engines became the gateway, directories were the way in which people would discover new content.

As directories tend to rank well (due to the volume of content they contain) they can command a good PageRank and are therefore a highly useful source of inbound links. And if the directory contains niche content entirely relevant to your own niche, then getting into the right directories can seriously boost your rankings.

Getting your website into web directories is really easy, but requires a little time and effort.

The ultimate directory - DMOZ

DMOZ is the largest and most influential link directory, reviewed by volunteers. A listing in the DMOZ can seriously boost your website ranking.

Before you apply to the DMOZ first go and use it yourself. Perform searches, see who is listed under your keywords, and look at the text of their listings.

Then when you are ready make your submission. Make sure you are submitting to right category and that you don't try and sell when writing your entry.... or you will be left out.

It may take some weeks - or even months - to get reviewed by a DMOZ editor, but it is worth it as Google takes DMOZ into account when scoring its rankings.

Locating suitable link directories

You don't just want to be any directory. You will be given a higher ranking if the referring site is in the same subject niche as your website.

Do a Google search for:

"keywords" + submit link

or "keywords" + submit site

or "keywords" + add site

where "keywords" is your keywords in quotes, eg. "diet pills" + add link or diet +"add link"

Then work your way through the list, visiting each result and submit your website.

	Do... include your keywords in every directory submission you make come back to the directory to see for yourself that your entry is included make submitting to directories an ongoing activity - don't just do it once then forget about it!
	Don't... break the DMOZ guidelines (or like 80% of site applicants the person reviewing your site won't allow it, and probably won't give you a second chance)

www.dmoz.org - the Open Directory Project evolt.org - great DMOZ FAQ by a DMOZ editor