Hello If, like most directories, it is like: SITENAME (which links to your site) DESCRIPTION (which doesn't link to your site) is there any reason to put a keyword rich description?
Do you want to submit to directories? Never understood people who want to submit to a site and yet will proclaim that they never go to such a site. To each his own. For sure, submit to my directories and I will reject them if I see they are from you.
A keyword rich description only helps the directory, which most webmasters dont realize. A regular description is needed for those that may be searching that particular directory.
those are pretty valid statements. ...adding - be the best text copy on the page [an objective view of what is found on the other side of the link] and you will get more clicks! [of course - if any are available].
A rich description may help the directory get more traffic from search engines. But depending the script that directory uses, your site can also benefit. Thanks to search engines, people visit directories and they are still popular, I think.
A unique and keyword rich description will help the directory get ranked better, and will also help your link be worth something. You should always try to target a few obscure search terms when submitting a directory listing. Sometimes it will get you traffic, if you don't try an obscure term don't expect anything. Also, if you offer the same duplicate description too many times, the weaker links will be weeded from your google links
hmmmm.... Interesting question... well here is the deal. Google is pretty smart and does consider the text around your link. How do I know... well a buddy of mine has a site and he rank well for some KW and there was no mention of the KW on his site or in anchor text anywhere. (I shit you not) Now.. what you should do is not KW load your description b/c you will just piss off directory owners.
Keyword rich description can boost your site in search engine. Usually most of the directories allow to submit up to 500 characters. So in these description one can easily put one or two keyword but not more than that. If one put more than that 2 or 3 then search engine may suspect it is somewhat a scam.
Yes, in fact you need to have multiple descriptions and titles if you want your directory submission campaign be successful. Google considers body text around the anchor, so having it keyword rich (don't mistake this for keyword spamming) definitely helps! You are wrong in this. Then, how can you explain the fact that many popular directories have Alexa rank within Top 50,000. Some people, especially the older generation who grew up on DMOZ, still love a nice browse through a popular and valuable directory. It is yet another way of discovering new interesting sites. Keep that in mind when writing copy (any copy - advert, sales, desctiption) - entertain a reader and don't think about anything else!