 What
is the difference between a directory and a search engine?
Aren't they the same thing? The answer is no, but both
are equally critical to achieving top rankings.
Search engines use computer programs known as "bots" or "spiders" to
crawl the Internet looking for individual web pages to
index into their databases. Each major search engine uses
a complex set of algorithms and link popularity weighting
to determine your page and site relevancy. Matching closely
with the search engine's protocol can help you secure top
ranking spots. Not aligning with the set protocols can
result in low rankings or in some cases having pages removed
from the search engine's database.
Directories operate somewhat differently. They usually
involve human interaction with your site or pages. Known
as an editor, this person will determine if your site meets
the guidelines of their particular directory and also the
category in which you want to reside. It is of utmost importance
that your site be properly optimized for a directory prior
to the submission process.
Improper directory optimization can cause a number of
problems, including being placed in the wrong category.
If the editor cannot easily determine the relevancy of
your site by looking at the title and description, misplacement
or even omission from the directory is likely.
A major online directory, such as Yahoo, can deliver boatloads
of traffic. So it's important your site be optimized and
categorized properly to take advantage of a potentially
huge audience of users.
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