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Many sites try to be listed and included in directories thinking that this will be their ticket to online visibility and success.  While there is good reason to believe that directory listing can provide exposure to sites, this is far from absolute.  Some directories are not ideal ones to be associated with and may actually work against a site.

Preferred directories are characterized by practices that are identified by resources that puts premium on quality over quantity.  Reputable blog directories usually offer a specific niche since this is the surest way to developing quality.  There are general directories that are likewise considered reputable but this is such a tall order considering how difficult it is to maintain standards with numerous focuses.

Reputable directories also find time to make themselves appear credible by being a source of excellent content and resource listing.  These directories do not simply accept every site that comes their way since included sites must be able to manifest their relevance for being included.  In essence, the directories which sites would benefit from being associated with are those that add value.

Directories which really care about general and specific goals of sites would know that offering gimmicks such as link juice will not be beneficial to the site in the long run.  Linking with relevant sites is essential but linking with directories and sites that smell of manipulation is not.  A good directory helps sites find their human audience.  If it is obvious that a directory is targeting search engines, there is a big possibility that the directory listing obtained does not provide much value.

About the Author:
Teresa is a part-time blogger who maintains multiple blogs.