Directory basics

A directory is simply a manual entry database system. You, as the web site operator submit your url and supply the directory with all of the needed information during the submission process. At a minimum, this information includes, url, title and a short summary of your website. Directories don't as a rule have any program capable of visiting your website, although a few directories do have a simple robot capable of checking that you provided a valid url

While both search engines and directories have elements in common, such as the ability to search the data base, Boolean expressions, and advanced features, the primary distinction lies in how the two systems obtain their data. Search engines do it automatically, where as directories do it manually

Another difference between search engines and search directories is that with a directory you can browse the structure of the directory and the listings in each of its sections, you can't do this with a search engine

Directory submission checks

There are a few things you should make sure are done before you start submitting. First of all ensure that everything works and that your web site is as complete as it can be, a web site is never totally finished but having sections that have flashing 'Under Construction' animated gifs is detrimental when trying to get into any important directory. Try not to use 'Coming Soon' phrases either, as this implies that in one sense your site is incomplete, avoid doing this, be more creative in the way you phrase text

You need to be able to view your site in several browsers without any 'show stopping' errors. Check its operation in Netscape and Explorer as a minimum, I also recommend you download the Opera browser as it is probably the only one browser that adheres to the WWC, as a result giving you a good baseline regarding what is a correctly coded web page

As well as having a look at your site in the above mentioned browsers, have a look at your site in several different resolutions. The 3 main resolutions you want to check at are

640 x 480
800 x 600
1024 x 768

Don't forget to check for bad links and javascript errors, make sure that all your images are loading and also check for spelling and typing errors

Choose directory category and keywords carefully

Use your most important keywords and keyphrases in the title and description that you submit to the directory. Use a title nearer the top of the alphabet if possible, as most directories list alphabetically. But if you are submitting a commercial site, you should use the official business name for the title. Directories like to see contact information, a privacy policy, a terms and conditions page and if you sell goods, a return policy on your site before they'll index it

The site description posted with your URL is a big factor in how your site will rank once it's listed in the directory. It is very important to do this right the first time. If you put too much promotional hype in your description or make it too long, then the editors may well change it. If they do, you can be sure your keywords won't appear in the final listing. Be accurate and include your most important keywords when ever possible. If you have a good meta description tag for your site, start with that

Move words around until you have the shortest yet most descriptive sentence possible. Be sure the words you're using in your description appear on the pages of your Web site. If they don't, and the site appears to be about subjects other than what you described in your form, your description might be edited. It's very difficult to change a site description once it's listed in most directories

Make sure you find the exact page you want to be listed on before submitting to the major directories. Your submission will be rejected if you choose an inappropriate category. Find which category your competition is in and add your site to that one. Choose sub-categories over top level categories. If you submit to a top level category when appropriate sub-categories are available, there's a good chance your submission will be rejected. Also, if your site has a geographical focus, then be sure you submit to the appropriate geographic region

All directories are different. They all have varying criteria for indexing your site. Some will only index your homepage while others will consider indexing other important pages within your site. This is why you should consider filling your homepage with relevant keywords. Don't waste it on a 'splash' entry page with just a picture or 'enter here' message as directory editors won't tend to list splash pages. Although every directory has its own procedure, the basics of choosing the most appropriate category and creating the best description apply across the board

What search directories am I listed in

If you've already done some submission work on your site but would like to know what directories are presently listing your web site, then here's a handy way to find out. Go to Google and type in +www.yourdomain.com and you will be presented with a list of directories linking to your site

Directory registration tips

Directories usually like to see sites that are 5 pages or more
Carefully read their FAQ and guidelines for submissions
You are more likely to be accepted if the name of your website matches your domain name
Some major directories including Yahoo, may not list sites that rely on Java for any basic functioning like navigation
Always make sure that pages that are reviewed by directories load fast. Busy directory editors, who have many sites to view, will not wait for a slow loading site
Directories accept that many sites have banners, you shouldn't have a problem as long as adverts do not encroach on the site to the exclusion of all else

Own your own domain name

You should have your own domain name and not a subdomain supplied by your ISP or a free web space provider. Unless you have a well designed and unique site, you'll find it hard to get a listing in the top directories with a subdomain. With the price of domain names and web space being reasonably low you should ensure that you're not making this mistake and give your site the status it deserves

getting a search directory listing