Would it be cheating to start a directory and then put links in it yourself. Keep putting links in it until it gets a very high page rank and then begin to promote it offering both free as well as paid links?
As long as you are not running a bid directory and placing high bids to trick submitters I don't see a problem with it. Many quality directoires do this to create a useful resource more quickly for visitors.
From what ive read in the past its a good idea to regularly add new sites, its helpful as far as i understand.
Hello.... Yes many directory owners do this already as well as dmoz and an excellent way off getting relevant links and info to your database. Good luck with your directory thx malcolm
If you wish to add a link, add mine Anyhow, i believe its okay to add some links, just to make it look like it isnt dead. But bid placing directories would be like scamming.
The only gotcha is that if your directory displays screenshots of websites. Screenshots, believe it or not, are copyrightable; which means you need permission to use them.
I asked a lawyer about it and it is a copyrightable image. It's just that most website owners are not aware of that or don't care if you use the screenshot to promote their site. Personally, I think it's a bit whacko, but in some ways it does make sense.
Thanks for that pointer. And than you everyone for your very helpful insight. My directory is my second project after my health questions website. Once it is up I shall let you know so you can give me your links and I can put them in. Thanks again.
LOL But seriously, I think you got your answer. And I think probably the best thing to do that was already mentioned, would be to get good quality links in there. Avoid the temptation to put irrelavant/spam type links in and you'll do good for your site. JG
You would cheat the industry by not doing that but instead allowing all rubish sites into your directory.
Well said It's a common fact that when we add sites to our directory, we usually start with search engines like Yahoo, Google, MSN, Ask.com etc. Reason being that one, your directory gets traffic and if they visit search engines category (for example), they would expect to see at least the most famous search engines. That's actually what directory is about...isn't it. A web resource.... Two, You really don't expect quality sites like Google, Yahoo, Apple etc to come and buy a listing on your directory... Do You?