Pretty soon ill be starting a new directory, and i want get some feedback from other directory webmasters and users on what they think makes a good directory. So far Ive come to the following conclusions: - Directories MUST take advantage of solid seo techniques for the benefit of both the directory and the sites submitted. - Niche directories in general will generate more traffic for the sites submitted than general directories. - Non reciprical directories "seem" to be more successful in terms of links submitted. From an owners point of view im wondering what people think about premium listings, recipricals and freebies. In my new directory i plan to have 3 short listings in the frontpage and possibly 1 spotlighted site....so thats 4 advert spots. Then in each category I want to have a single premium link at the top of the category smack bang in the clicking zone . For the rest id like to reward those users that recipricate to the directory by giving them a higher position. What is your thoughts on paid directories v free directories and can anyone provide me with examples of paid directories that have worked. In particular, what would you recommend as an initial charge at the outset of a directory for frontpage spots and spots at the top of categories. Any feedback much appreciated. Hope to have the new directory up and running within the next week or so.
Well you'll have to first decide whether you are going to start a paid directory or a free directory. I know some offer both, but 80% of users will always submit for free if possible. So figure your goals first, then decide on layout, features, etc.
Looking at linklasso.com. It seems you have free listings, and the option to sponsor a category as well. My idea would basically be the same, but Im also going to have a few paid positions on the frontpage as well. How has the directory worked out for you? Is it making money for you atm... Btw I like your design..its clean, easy to navigate, and easy to read.
I am also kind of same situation like you. It all boils down to these points, which is what i have heard from other webmasters. * Build your directory by allowing plenty of time. There are so many directories out there lying empty. How well you organise your directory with the given links, which matters the most. * Make your directory very search friendly so that it does pass pagerank. * Normally, many submitters hate to provide a reciprocal link and dont like to write good title and descriptions. So a good balance of paid and free had to be preserved. * If you dont want to put lot of effort in building general one, better start off with a niche one. I believe this would help you out. If possible please share your experiences with me.
When we first began we offered free listings to build up our listings, now we only offer 3 different paid submission types. We found that if you offer a free listing along with paid submissions, about 70% of the users will resort to submitting for free. By only accepting paid submission you in turn will make more money and you will also cut out a ton of spam submissions. I remember when we first started up and offered free submissions it was a nightmare sorting through the spammy submissions and the worthwhile submissions. Directory is working out very well. I'm actually making more money from it than I ever anticipated. Just make sure you come up with a unique directory name that people will remember and make a unique design that is appearling and not generic. It'll take time to get the directory up and running full steam ahead, but if you approach things right it will deffinitely pay off in the long run!
I think there is always an unknown "future" variable. If you are doing what people are doing now 6 months from now, you will be behind. So information is your best friend. Study the others and see what they are doing, and look for opportunities to do something different and better.
Offering free listing option in the starting 3 or 4 months, will result in popularity of directory, after that you can emphasize on Paid listing options. In this way you can get both contents and revenue too.