Although it may not seem like it, a sizable amount of traffic can pour in from a directory listing. Directories provide a place for small business owners and Web creators alike to make their site more visible to the public. Web surfers often use directories when they are in search of a local service or product.

Directories can be free or paid, although free directories often do not guarantee that your Web site will ever make it into their listings. A paid listing will typically guarantee placement within a set time limit (usually within 7 days).

Search engines weigh links from reputable directories very heavily. This is because the Web site must pass a human editor’s quality test before it is admitted. Overall, a one-time submission to Yahoo! Directory or DMOZ can increase the number of visitors to your site substantially. It is also a great way to validate your Web site in the eyes of popular search engines.