Being listed in directories allows your local business to be found by consumers directly from the directory itself or through search engines such as Google. Directories and local listings receive high rankings in search engines. So when your business listed is in high ranked directories, you have greater chances of being found by potential clients and buyers online.

Directories can be either paid or free. Most recommend using both paid and free service. But before you spend money on paid directories, it is best to do a little background check if you can. Make sure that the paid directory shares an outstanding rank in search engines so you get the most out of your money. Otherwise, it is best to take advantage of free directories and submit your local business information to as many as you can to get more back links. These links which redirect back to your site are counted as points by search engine crawlers. Getting more points means improving your standing in search engine ranking. This process is called search engine optimization.

Each directory offer different features. Find out what the directory has to offer before you submit your business URL. Know if the directory lists your products and services or just your contact information. Directories which provide ample space for goods and items offered in your business are of course preferable. As for what can be allowed to submit, there are directories which also permit the inclusion of additional documents and even pictures that are relevant to what the company is all about. Aside from product listings, you should also check if it is possible for you to list your business in more than category. This increases the chances of your business to have greater visibility online.

In relation to SEO, make a test to see if the directory shows up in Google and other search engines. Make sure that the directory itself follows the default “do follow” method rather than the “no follow” scripting which search engine bots do not count as points. On a more practical application of this, try searching for keywords which are related to directories and the directory's name. See if your prospective directory shows up in the results. Know how the directory promotes itself. Who are the target audience? What are the steps they do in order to spread the word about your business online? These questions are relevant before you start submitting your site on any directory.

Directories often retain your site details at an indefinite period. There are those which provide their services either paid or free for a specific duration only like a year and so on. In some cases, businesses are allowed a trial period such as 30 days especially for paid services to see if being listed does make a difference to the local business in question. During the trial period, you can get acquainted with how the directory works. Check the directory's own search engine. Try making a few searches of your own as if you are consumer looking for a specific product or service to see how it works.