Directories are human-edited lists of links to websites in various categories. This makes them very different from search engines, which are automated. Since many directories are reviewed by experienced editors, submitting your site to them can add a more targeted, thoughtful approach to your off page SEO.

In fact, taking advantage of web directories should be part of your overall link building strategy. Successful submissions can get you what your site needs - strong backlinks, interested visitors, sales, and more revenue in the long term.

Here are a few things to consider when you decide what directories to submit to:

INDEXING and PAGERANK

You will need to do your own due diligence on the directory you're submitting to. Unfortunately, there is no "cheat sheet" that can list all of the directories and page ranks. This is because PageRank is never static. It can change overnight, and is never 100% timely.

Just make sure the directory you are considering is indexed by the major search engines, and has PageRank (PR) or other traffic indicators. Also, make sure it not been banned (grey-barred) by Google.

Is it a waste of time to try to get into a directory that's rarely used or too new to have PageRank? Absolutely not! As any Google watcher knows, PageRank can jump from 0 to a 4 or 5 in just one Google update. That means getting into a directory that's brand new (and probably very easy to get into) could pay off handsomely in a few months.

Also, as any professional SEO expert will tell you, the PageRank that's displayed in the Google toolbar is probably inaccurate. PageRank updates don't happen as frequently as shifts in the SERPs (search engine results pages). So never use PR as the sole indicator of the quality of a directory.

That said, remember that time is money - and it takes time to submit to directories. So in the beginning, focus on directories that will help you boost the quality of your backlinks. And, if you're paying to get into a directory, it really ought to show at least some PageRank.

CHECK REVIEW PERIODS

Whether you're submitting to paid or free directories, check the review periods. Free directories often have months-long wait times and even the paid directories can keep you waiting an unreasonably long time.

Again, to get the most value from your initial directory submissions, check the terms, and opt for those that promise shorter review periods.

GO FOR DIRECTORIES WITH LONGEVITY FIRST

If you want to maximize the odds that your listing will still exist months or even years later, go for older and well-established directories first. Older directories that have some traffic are more likely to still be up and operational in the future.

When choosing directories that are newcomers, remember that ANY directory, no matter how small or basic, can become popular. The problem is it can also easily vanish after a few months, just like any other new business.

So look for signs of future longevity when checking out a new directory. If it's got a good design, good search capabilities, and seems to be showing some growth - however slow - then a new directory can be a free or low-cost way to get one more good, natural backlinks. Many new directories also have proactive editors who will review your listing and activate your placement a lot faster.

Since fresh directories are being added every day, make searching for new directories a part of your regular link strategy. Directories are an especially good way to get your first backlinks if your site is brand new. And, it's a realtively simple process to perform.