SEO experts and internet marketing professionals know that directory submissions are imperative for online business owners who want to create link popularity, increase traffic, and increase search engine ranking. So what is a directory? A directory is simply a listing of websites that is broken down by category and subcategory. If you want your website to be included in the directory, simply submit your site and you will be included. Individuals who want to learn more about a particular subject will then access the directory and find your site. Before you add your URL, however, you need to understand the ground rules for directory submissions. Some directories will list your site for free while others will charge a fee. If you pay for a listing you are almost guaranteed that your site will be included in the directory within about a week. Directories that don't charge a fee may take a lot longer. Here are seven other things you should know before submitting your site.

1. Know your directories. Choose only the most well-respected and highest-quality directories. This will make a difference in your search engine rankings. Just as search engines place a premium on inbound links from relevant and authoritative sites, they also place a premium on listings from relevant and authoritative directories.

2. Know the rules. Each directory has its own set of rules, so make sure you know them before submitting. If you don't familiarize yourself with the rules then you may be wasting your time. For instance, some directories require registration while others require you to be an editor.

3. Know what information to provide. Most directories will ask for your title, URL, keywords, and description. Also make sure you give them a valid and working email address or you run the risk of having your submission rejected.

4. Know how to use keywords. Directories often use keywords to locate your site when a user searches the directory, so make sure you include your keywords both in your title and your description. Make sure your description sounds factual rather than like a sales piece.

5. Make sure your webpage is complete. Don't submit your site to a directory until your site has been scrubbed and polished. Don't use popup or popunder windows. Also keep ads and affiliate links to a minimum. An incomplete site or a site with too many annoying distractions can cause your submission to be rejected by the directory owners.

6. Know your categories. Be sure to choose the most appropriate categories and subcategories for your site. This is easier on the directory editor and can ensure that your website is included more quickly. This will also ensure that your search engine ranking is higher because the search engine will consider it more relevant.

7. Be patient. Chances are that your site will not be listed right away, even if you've paid for a directory listing. While you're waiting for your listing to show up in one directory, try submitting to several more.

Directory submissions are an effective and efficient way to drive traffic to your site and increase sales. Some online business owners enjoy this process and find that it gets results quickly and easily. Other owners find it tedious and time-consuming, despite the good results. If you're one of these business owners, consider hiring someone to do your directory submissions on your behalf. An SEO expert or internet marketing professional can not only submit your site to directories, but can help you determine how directory submissions can be an integral part of your internet marketing strategy. They can also save you lots of time since they are very familiar with directories and will know right away which directories are appropriate for your site. Whether you choose to do it yourself or have someone do it for you, be sure to reap the benefits of directory submissions for your business!