I have an information website and submitted it to many different directories including general directories and directories specific to my category. I don't know about the SEO effect of each, but when I look at my stats, I get several hits from the category specific directories and pretty much zero clicks from the general directories, even those withh higher PR. So in terms of attracting clicks, I recommend targeted, focused directories far more than general directories. For directory owners, there are already thousands of the general directories. Wouldn't it be better to focus on a specific category? That way your directory will actually be useful for people looking for the types of site it's targeted to.
He must have submitted to QBC directories -- @OP-- it would been better if you gave examples of some General directories you submitted. Or if you have any problem --just cite prices --most of us know which quality directory has which rates. You should first do little bit research and then only post such allegations. Can you back-up your claims?
As long as niche and general directories are quality directories with content and search engine optimised they will both work well. .
I don't get the impression that the OP is making any allegations, the OP is making a valid statement of his/her own experience, plus adding an opinion. It is possible for a tightly focussed directory to give you more hits, However, note the following 1, Niche directorys are very hard to build up, hard to market, an therefore need to charge more for reviews 2, there are always very, very few of them, hence restrictin yourself to them is probably not a good idea This is based on my own experience to date
One has to back-up if he/she claims something --isn't? If I say XYZ directory is not good --won't people demand back-ups? You have good experience there --but not much experience on good promotion and marketing of directories. I personally believe --Niche directories are the future ( I already have domains for one real-estate, one business and one adult directory--but need time to develop them) --but Quality General Web Directories will never ever loose their relevance or power. You must read Matt Cutts to know about them. One ediot reported some paid directories selling links on his blog. So Matt had to address the issue specifically related to web directories. He always endorsed quality web directories.
I agree the OP was just writing some opinions and not putting down general directories. General directory has its place and really important for many reasons. There are times that the only place you can improve your pr and serps is buying a listing from directories. On the other hand, niche directory is where you really want to put your website info. You can easily recover the fee and much more. Certainly each one has its main area of importance. Dont you think? My opinion guys!
Hi, I'm not sure how I can back up my claims. Here's a list of some directories I've submitted to. They're repicrocal: http://www.adminsphere.com/links/links.php I have many sites and submit each to different directories. I don't do paid directories at the moment, just reciprocals. One of my sites is a pet information website. When I look at my stats, I see 5-10 hits per month for several pet specific directories I submitted to. I've never seen any hits from the more general directories other than Dmoz. What can I tell you?