What web directory should I join?

 

There is a big question amongst designers on which web directories should I join, if any at all?

 

Unfortunately there are so many bad directories that get penalized by Google for spamming that they will have no effect on the SEO of the site listed at all. As of 2007 Google started to recognise these bad directories and lower their Page Rank. However there are still many directories out there worth being listed in, you just have to know what to look out for.

 

The first criteria when looking for a reputable directory, which eliminates most directories, is they should target a specific area. There are only a few general directories that are effective, those being DMOZ and Yahoo, this is because they were created or connected by large search engines.

 

Most general directories that have almost any type of business included, have been created so anyone can apply and therefore have a greater chance of creating revenue. Whereas the main goal of a directory should actually be to direct quality and relevant traffic to the desired companies listed.

 

Look out for specialist directories that have included quality content about the keywords that would be beneficial for both the directory and sites linked, this is massive positive and quite rare in directories.

 

See how that directory is listed within Google and for what keywords, after all there's little point listed in a directory that doesn't attract any visitors.

 

It may be worth investigating who has been included in the directory. Directories that include any site may be considered as a signal for spam identification. A directory that has linked to a foreign, unrelated website or a dead link shows its true quality and worth. Sites included that are PR0 are fine as usually they are new. However if high PR (page rank) websites have joined, then it is usually a good indication that the directory is doing well.

 

If you see a directory interlinking with other directories is an easy method for Google to pick out spamming directories and should be avoided.

 

In short, join a specialised directory that has good quality content and a selective linking process - high standards!

 

I would like to add that the professional website design directory strives to keep the standards as high as possible. Not only are we a directory, but also offer useful web design advice for website designers, and is a useful guide for companies looking for a web designer.