Online directories are platforms that store your business details just like the traditional telephone directory. Submission to online business listing websites is a common SEO strategy. If you are still skeptical then here are the SEO benefits of submission to online directories.

• Enhanced search engine ranking, which helps to gain exposure and build links.
• Acquire high-quality backlinks through directory submissions. Backlinks are an algorithm search engines use while indexing.
• Generate good traffic towards your website or blog using appropriate keywords in the business listings.

Directory submission types

• Free directory submission – However, obtaining an approved link can take time.
• Reciprocal directory listing – Submit reciprocal link towards your website during submission for approval.
• Paid directory submission – It is a kind that brings quick backlinks. However, you will need to purchase a paid package from the directory site owner for submission.
• Automatic directory submission – Such platforms allow using tools and software to submit to their listings.
• Manual directory submission – Every step taken needs to be performed manually.
• Nofollow directory submission – This is a kind that does not bring the desired ranking, so you need to consider this seriously before using it.
• Dofollow directory submission – It is a type that enhances your ranking and website traffic.
• Niche directory submission – Each niche directory is related to a particular subject and is listed under a specific category.

How to submit your business listings to directories?

• Before submission create a list that includes – website URL, contact details & address, and business description in short. [You will have to decide whether to choose a free or paid listing option].
• Find some quality directories having high Domain Authority [DA] and make a list.
• Start submitting your business details on the DA sites.
• After submission, you will obtain a confirmation email, and you are done.

For free directory submissions

Dos

• Check if the major search engines index the free directory because submission to DA directories is good for SEO and backlink building.
• The potential directory needs to offer unique categorization, which helps seekers to find relevant information quickly, so check outbound links.
• Ensure that the online directory has high domain authority.
• Read the directory guidelines related to categorization before submission to avoid rejection.
• Remember one quality link is greater than multiple poor quality links. Submit to quality directories to preserve your ranking.
• Use targeted keywords in the title and description but ensure not to overstuff.
• Check approval status regularly and monitor your submissions.

Document your listings for future reference. Do follow the features mentioned above to make the most of free business advertising opportunities.

Don’ts

• If the platform has a policy of the ‘rel=no follow’ attribute, then it is not helpful in your SEO campaign.
• Remember free-for-all link websites, dangerous neighborhoods, and link farming are damaging to your website.
• Mirror sites hold the same content with different URLs, so avoid submitting to such directories.
• If sites have repetitive and overlapping content, then it is not useful to directory users. Multiple submissions on affiliated sites can result in deletion.
• Never disguise submissions or submit the same URL a couple of times.
• If the site has under construction or incomplete notice or contains broken links or graphics, then never submit to a directory. After the site is completed, it is ready for submission….so wait until then!

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