Definition
Web directory submission is one of the oldest link building techniques. It involves registering your site in online directories organized by category. In the early days of the web, directories like DMOZ and Yahoo Directory were major references. Today, most general directories have lost their SEO value, and mass submission to hundreds of directories is considered spam. However, some niche, professional, or local directories retain value: Chamber of Commerce, industry directories, Yellow Pages, etc. The key is selecting quality directories relevant to your industry.
Key Points
- Low-quality general directories no longer have SEO value
- Niche, professional, and local directories retain relevance
- Directory quality matters more than submission quantity
Practical Examples
Quality directory
Listing your SEO agency in a professional digital marketing federation directory. The link is relevant, the directory is quality, and the listing strengthens credibility.
Mass submission
Using a tool to submit your site to 500 low-quality general directories. This approach is counterproductive and may even trigger a penalty.
Frequently Asked Questions
General directories, no. But quality niche, professional, and local directories remain useful for local SEO (NAP citations), link profile diversification, and professional credibility.
Prioritize directories with editorial moderation, a topic relevant to your business, good Domain Authority, and real organic traffic. Avoid directories that accept all sites without verification.
Go Further with LemmiLink
Discover how LemmiLink can help you put these SEO concepts into practice.
Last updated: 2026-02-07