6 Tips for a Successful Directory Launch
There is nothing more exciting that launching your directory after all the time you spent developing it, but be aware of the fiery competition out there and get ready ahead of time to make the launch the beginning a great online success.
Assuming that you have the appropriate script and web design to make your directory something functional and appealing to surfers, keep in mind that there are popular directories across the Internet with the coding based on the same script that you are more than likely using. With this in mind you need to know that a unique layout can make a big difference.
However, other factors will determine the response your directory will receive from surfers. Here are some points to take into consideration for a successful launch:
1. In the beginning, sketch your project.
Designing your directory structure and defining the categories in which it will specialize is not enough toward the launching date. Make sure to draw a strategy jotting down a few ideas on how you will market your project.
2. Write, review and rewrite.
Putting together a directory is not an easy task if you are serious about making it the core part of your online business. Once that you come up with the idea, write on what your directory will be about, sections and categories to develop, review your notes and amend every time that you find something which does not fit with your overall concept.
3. Add value to your directory.
The ultimate goal of people landing at your directory is getting their site listed. However, because of the number of directories on the Internet you need to add a new flavor to yours to be different from the rest. Make your directory attractive to visitors by adding some content such as relevant articles, specialized webmaster tools or whatever else, which also contributes with your web site placement in search engines.
4. Optimize your web site.
No quality directories can return good results if their pages are not SEO friendly. Search engine optimization contributes to helping people find your site easily through major search engines. Learning more about SEO guidelines or hiring an expert to develop a solid link building strategy plays an important role to improving both pagerank and search engine placement.
5. Design your marketing methodology.
All of us know a web site needs to be publicized, but only a few people develop a marketing strategy that boosts their traffic. Submitting your site to search engines and updating content regularly to keep it fresh is a good starting in the promotion of your directory and getting organic traffic, but also working on your marketing and networking campaigns that increase your chances to succeed in a shorter period of time.
6. Be cautious linking to others.
Exchanging links is a common practice to increase traffic and search engine placement, but when you are just launching a directory the need of a space to promote your site may lead you to irrelevant sites or bad Internet neighborhoods, such as pharmacy, gambling or adult content. Remaining selective and perseverant are practices to observe after launching to avoid being banned from search engines
Finally, after your directory launch, keep up with your networking tasks by adding a link to your directory in your emails, forum posts, and other works published on the Internet. This will help you to keep your promotion alive without spamming or spending loads of money.