Free or Paid Web Directories
There are thousands of human edited web directories in the internet today although many are exiting this niche, new directories are sprouting as each day passes by. Web directories no doubt are our source of one way quality backlinks that will improve our ranking with search engines and would give us organic traffic in the long run. With so many directories to choose from in the web, you might ask yourself whether to submit your site to a free directory or paid one? We can say that both can give us backlinks but there are lots of differences between a free directory and a paid one and let me share with you my opinion between the two so keep on reading.
Pros and Cons of Free Directories
The best thing about free directories is of course they are free and will cost you nothing. All you have to do is find the best category, read their submission guidelines and TOS, fill up their form and you’re done. Now, the waiting part if your site will be approved or not is the bad thing about choosing a free one from a paid one. You won’t have any idea if your submission will be approved in a few days, weeks, or months and worse most will not inform you if your submission is rejected although there free directories who approve very fast, you will be fortunate to find one. Another thing to worry about free directories is your listing is not likely to be permanent and can be removed anytime by the administrator without any worry of breaking any agreements or having any monetary liability.
Pros and Cons of Paid Directories
The bad thing about paid directories is of course you have to pay to be listed. Some directories give you the option to be listed annually or permanently and will charge you a higher cost if you choose the latter. While others will let you choose either regular or featured listing but both will be permanent. Now, the good thing about paying for review and listing fees is you get an assurance on how long the review will take. It may take within 24 hours or up to 7 days, but the important thing is you have an idea for a short period of time whether your submission will be accepted or rejected. Your payment will also assure you that your listing most likely will remain permanent for the duration of period you chose as long as you abide by their guidelines and TOS. A part of the proceeds from review and listing fees will be used for the promotion of the directory so it most likely that paid directories are promoted well in the web.
Free vs. Paid Directories
Dmoz.org one of the oldest and respected web directory is accepting free submission. Having your site listed in this free directory definitely will help boost your site’s rank. But having your site listed to this directory is very difficult. It could take months before your submission is accepted or you may as well assume your submission was rejected if your site is not listed after more than six months have passed. On the other hand, Yahoo Directory, a paid directory will guarantee review of your site within 7 working days and will inform you if your site is approved or not. Everything said are not all conclusive, and whether you choose a free or paid one, always remember, inclusion of your site in their listing is not guaranteed.
Keep in mind directory owners are striving hard to promote their website and to acquire reputable rank with Search Engines and doing this requires time, effort and money. At the same time reviewing website for inclusion and maintenance will also consume resources. Submit your site not only to free directories but also to paid ones that will guarantee fast review services and acquire those quality backlinks without the agony of waiting too long. There are many paid directories out there that offers quality listing but only charge a minimal fee.
