Are all those online link directories really worth anything? Do people really look towards these directories to find websites? And do the search engines put any value on these particular directory links?

The answers are yes, yes, and yes. Okay, that is a somewhat simplified answer. Actually, it is three simplified answers presented in the most basic manner possible. This is not done to deflect the seriousness of the answer. Rather, it is done to promote the notion that you should not dismiss the value of these excellent directories. They have great value although such value does have its limitations. These limitations are not overly negative. Do not make the false assumption that because some limitations may exist with link directories that they have no value at all. This is not the case. You just need to be aware of the fact link directories cannot be your exclusive promotional and SEO venue.

Fact: When integrated into a solid, overall promotional and SEO strategy, link directories can prove to be enormously helpful.

Let’s answer the three questions posed at the beginning of the article to see such benefits…

Are all those link directories really worth anything?

Yes, the links placed in these directories serve both the purpose of search engine optimization and direct advertisement. In terms of SEO, the placement of the links in the directories primes them to be indexed by the search engines. Each of these links counts as a vote for search engine rankings. Of course, the higher ranked the search engine directory is the greater its impact on your rankings.

In terms of direct advertising, the links broadcast the means in which visitors can travel to your site. If the description of the site that accompanies the link is of interest, a great deal of visitor traffic might flow.

Do people really look towards these directories to find websites?

Yes. Sometimes they do so by design and other times they may do so by chance. By design means they may specifically look towards their favorite directory in the same manner they would search through the Yellow Pages. In many ways, that is exactly the purpose many online link directories serve. Consider that another reason why it is helpful to post links on such directories.

Once again, these links will be indexed by the search engines which means people may come across them when performing their own searches. While not finding the website directly, the links provide a means in which to reach the website which is, of course, their intended purpose. As long as the links placed on the directory deliver the much needed traffic required for your commercial website to be successful, the links are doing their job. And that is what they are there for…

And do the search engines put any value on these particular directory links?

This will depend upon the quality of the particular directory in question. If the directory is completely new and given a Page Rank of 0, it will not be anywhere near as valuable as an established directory with a Page Rank of 7. That said it will have some value which means it will benefit your business in a positive manner. The speed in which your website is positively impacted by the links will also depend upon the popularity of the website. To reiterate, the less popular websites are not completely without value. They just may take a little longer for their effectiveness to deliver results. Results, however, will be forthcoming.

In the final analysis, placing links on link directories has great value. If you are placing links on these venues, you are definitely on the right track.