SEO – Using Online Directories to Increase Your Website’s Search Engine Rankings

As consumers we’ve all been in a situation where we’re online and we’re looking for something in particular, so the first place we look is of course the search engines.

So we type in a keyword or phrase and start searching, now tell me how many times do you find yourself clicking on a link or listing within the organic search results from an online directory? How many of us have gone on and purchased something sourced from a link to an online business directory listing is the question?

I’ve spent some considerable time studying the patterns of business listings within directories namely my own, and I can tell you if carried out and adapted properly, can help increase your own sites search engine rankings, increase targeted traffic and of course improve your conversion rate.

Business directories online presence have increased dramatically over the last few years and there is now so many different types such as; business to business, business to consumer and even dedicated specific sector directories. So where does one start?

My personal marketing strategies with online directories have worked very well for me and I do believe it can work for the majority of everyone else. Results don’t happen over night so let’s get one thing straight. Start with making a list of all the business directories that you can find online. Depending on the phrases you’re using generally typing in ‘free business directory’ into the search engine works fine. So obviously the big guns or higher ranked directories come first so create your list by making your way through the first two or three pages.

The second part is to start picking out the ones that are relevant to your business type and begin registering. As mentioned many of them offer free registration and free listing. When creating your company profile, be careful in your picking of keywords and phrases; select the ones that relate purely to your business or service gender. In each registration, try writing and using different descriptions when describing your business or services making sure you use specific and targeted keywords and phrases. Keep to the point and avoid rambling on.

Within a few weeks of doing I found that I was starting to see small fruits of my labour if you like.

At this stage you may even look at placing listings on paid business directories. I recommend that you use Alexis to research a particular directory for the number of page impressions it receives and its ranking. This way you can ensure you are choosing the right business directories for maximum effect on your marketing tactics and paying the right fees for an affective service.

Like anything in life these things take time and I can’t stress enough that results don’t happen over night. Gradually you will see small changes to even bigger ones such as your own website ranking higher and better in search engine searches. As well as this you will receive plenty more interest in what your business has to offer, from your well prepared listings in the directories, thus generating more leads and sales.