After the penguin update, many SEO specialists view submitting to directories as an ineffective SEO strategy. Due to the numerous articles I've encountered on the subject, I halted my directory submission activities, but I am uncertain if it negatively influences SEO.
Would someone be willing to share their first-hand knowledge of directory submission techniques in use today? Have you experienced any adverse effects on your website due to this tactic? Any tangible proof such as dоcuments, screenshots, images, videos, or emails would be appreciated. Thank you!
Although directory submissions are considered to be outdated for creating backlinks and driving traffic to one's website, there are still high-quality directories available that can benefit your business by directing relevant traffic to your site.
Submitting your website to high PR directories can still be an effective way to increase backlinks, but it's important to keep the following in mind before submission:
1. Only submit your website to directories with a high PageRank.
2. Analyze the content and links of the directory website to avoid spam.
3. Submit your website only to relevant directories.
Absolutely! According to the Business Listings Trust Report 2021, 94% of consumers consulted business information sites, including online directories, to obtain information about a new or previously used business. Without local directory submissions, you risk losing profitable traffic.
No, It is not practiced now. You can focus on blog posting instead. Qust and answers and, Forums are some submissions you can focus on
In the early stages, directory submission was a common practice employed to improve a website's search engine rankings. However, the introduction of the Google Penguin update marked a significant shift in the effectiveness and perception of this strategy. The update aimed to penalize websites engaging in manipulative link-building tactics, including the excessive use of low-quality directory links to artificially inflate search engine rankings.
This shift led to a reevaluation of directory submission as a viable SEO strategy. Over time, it became evident that many directories were perceived as low-quality sources of backlinks by search engines, diminishing the impact of links derived from them in terms of SEO value. Consequently, websites that heavily relied on directory submission for link-building experienced a notable decline in search engine rankings post the Penguin update.
I have witnessed the transition towards a more organic and holistic approach to SEO. This shift emphasized the creation of high-quality, relevant, and engaging content, as well as the cultivation of authentic backlinks through outreach to reputable websites and the promotion of content via social media channels. This approach aligns with the evolving criteria employed by search engines, where the overall quality and relevance of a website's content, as well as a positive user experience, are weighed more heavily than simplistic link-building tactics like directory submission.
Furthermore, my experience has underscored the increasing importance of factors such as mobile responsiveness, site speed, and user experience in impacting SEO performance. These elements have become pivotal in influencing search engine rankings, surpassing traditional link-building techniques like directory submission.
In light of this, as a web designer, my professional stance is to advise against placing undue reliance on directory submission as an SEO strategy. Instead, a comprehensive and multifaceted approach that prioritizes the creation of valuable content, enhances user experience, and fosters organic link-building is more likely to yield sustained and favorable outcomes in the realm of SEO. This approach not only aligns with the evolving standards of search engines but also contributes to the overall credibility, relevance, and authority of a website within its respective niche.