Web Directories emerged to counter the seemingly vast inaccuracies of search engines. However, web directories were soon full of irrelevant and spam websites. A new breed of web directory was then formed: human community edited web directories. This form is not perfect. It is subject to the failings and whimsy of human editors. However, several directories exist which are committed to quality. One of those I believe is JoeAnt.
Using JoeAnt
JoeAnt is arranged like any other directory. There is a main list of basic subjects which are then broken down into sub-categories. Users can browse through each category and find lists of websites. In fact, I am using JoeAnt to find quality websites to review.
Each listing includes the name of the website, a link to the web site and up to a 35 word description of the website. The nice thing about JoeAnt is that by and large the descriptions of the website are helpful and accurate. This reflects highly upon the editors.
Next to each listing is a chart which indicates whether the website provides audio, chat, downloads, is an editor site, games, membership, shopping and/or video. Each site is also given an editor ranking of 1,2 or 3 bars. The rankings are pretty subjective. It says more about a site that it has been included in the directory then that it has a certain ranking.
Submitting to JoeAnt
To submit a site to JoeAnt, one must either become an editor or pay a fee. The cost is $40 and that does not guarantee inclusion into the directory. The fee is nonrefundable. The nonrefundable fee makes webmasters think twice about submitting. The essential question to ask is: is a website of quality and value? If it is, chances are it wil be accepted.
Webmasters need to follow the guidelines and be willing to abide by the Terms of Service.
Editing for JoeAnt
Becoming an editor is simple. Name, email address, username, password and accepting the TOA are all that is required. However, editing takes a committment. I would not recommend becoming an editor if you are not willing to take a little time each week to submit and review sites. The editing itself is quite simple, however it is a thankless task of repititive activity.
Remember, submitting to JoeAnt and other web directories is an important part of your website’s link building campaign.
About the Author
Paul Flyer loves to research the web and find resources and tools for building, maintaining and promoting websites. Based in Saint Louis, MO, he works in management and spends his free time sharpening his web development and copy writing skills. Feel free to contact Paul with any questions, comments or ideas. He is also available to help you with your own website.
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Business directories have become an effective way for the public to express opinions, make comments and select the appropriate business to deal with. On the same hand, business directories offer the business a great opportunity to advertise and get enormous internet exposure. For businesses that increase their exposure and generate interest through listings in business directories has become the smart thing to do. The powerful marketing tool of business directories will be enjoyed by the innovative public for a long time to come.
Businesses that use internet business directories enable them to receive instantaneous feedback. Enhancing the relationship with a customer can increase business success. Customers always look for the opportunity to give feedback to the business and the internet business directory has made it a great quality control avenue. Scary? Not for the business that is willing to adapt and market their business with this technology.
For marketing and promotion, the internet business directory has become an important part of business strategy.
Tristen Thomas