I recently started paying attention to this point and wanted to share it with you guys. In the past i used to submit my sites to directories using the same description or list website in my own directories by just copying their "description" tag over. I have learned this is not the right way (I'm sure most of you already know this). When you use the same description it looks like as if you (the webmaster) is the only person producing the links on the web and not many natural links are coming toward your site. So change your descriptions slightly for different submission and avoid automating your directory submissions. Above all, keep in mind content is king and no amount of directory submission or link building will be worth the good content on your site.
I have to agree although editor integrity should prevail and most editors will change your descriptions anyway. I think Content Use to be king, now "Quality Content is King".
When im submitting i wont use a unique description to free directories, i do change it after a while though. Worth it for paid submissions though.
Directory submissions done the right way can bring upto Pagerank 5, I have tested and verified the same. You need to do things wisely.
I had used 5 different description and 5 different titles for a person to 100 seo friendly directories and new directories. In just 20 days his site has jumped from 11 page to 6th page for same targeted key word. Is that a good sign?(I hope it is)
I have tried 20/30 descriptions for a website but writing 1000 unique descriptions sounds like a daunting task
Directory submissions can be really beneficial for page ranking, but writing many descriptions can get very old...
Its always good when you use various titles and descriptions. By using various titles you can target many keywords. However i don't think unique descriptions might that much help, as dirs. are used nowadays to get backlinks only and this indirectly boost ur serps.
make a good schedule.. 5 directory have one description, just that.... no duplicate content... and all directory will index your listing site after that...