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Online Directories Boost Search Engine Optimization
04/21/2008 - By Robynn Anton

Robynn@thefreelanceteam.com
http://www.thefreelanceteam.com

If you are attempting to figure out an online marketing strategy for your company, you may be confused at where to start. Don't spend another dime on online advertising until you read this...

If you are attempting to figure out an online marketing strategy for your company, you may be confused at where to start. Everyone is out there claiming that they are the experts, sign-up with them and they will get you the most leads, or will be the miracle you have been looking for,but the truth is, there is no wonder drug when it comes to online marketing. There are, however, specific steps you should take when creating your online marketing strategy and I am writing today to tell you about one of them.

Online directories are a great and inexpensive way to get your website or your business noticed. Choosing which online directory to join is a daunting task, but I am here to make it a little easier for you.

First of all, look for a directory that is offering you a FREE listing. A FREE listing, for example, in a local small business directory such as POPSpages.com is definitely worth the investment. POPSpages.com lists businesses by their geographical location and then categorizes them by industry or service. One if the companies listed in this business directory is Blinds Plus. If you go to Google and search for blinds Mason Ohio, you will see Blinds Plus' website listing and their POPSpages.com listing on the first page of Google search engine results.

Your profile, or advertisement, in an online directory gives your prospect one more chance to find your company. It just makes good business sense to list on this type of directory. By entering your company name and profile into an online directory, you are increasing your chances of getting exposure and ultimately bringing your own site higher in the natural search engine results. *(Make sure to use relevant key words when submitting your company information into any directory.)

If your business is a niche market, such as a day spa, you may want to also consider adding your site to a niche marketing online directory such as BestLocalDaySpas.com. Niche marketing is on the rise and directories such as BestLocalDaySpas.com give you a chance to stand out amongst your competitors and show your target market what makes you shine.

In most cases, premium upgrades are available for features such as additional content, videos, photos, blogging and customer ratings. You should take a hard look at directories with these multi-media and interactive features because these additional services also help boost your search engine rankings. It may be well worth your money to invest in a robust site to reap the long-term rewards.

One of the key features you should look for when considering a directory is the ability to add content in the form of advice, whether it be through article submission or blogging. Search engines love content! This form of online advertising literally pulls the search engines to you and screams to place your information, and ultimately your own website, at the top of the search results.

Write an article, give advice, or just describe why your services are unique, and submit it to a local or relevant directory. The search engines see the changes in content and run to find it. Don't miss out on this great tool for drumming up business and getting noticed.

In the end, there is no magic potion or formula for online success, but taking advantage of free services and advertising outlets that cost little are worth looking into and may result in a huge ROI. By Robynn Anton, B2B Freelance Writer and owner of POPSpages.com. Robynn can be reached at Robynn@POPSpages.com.








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