9 replies to this topic

[Lastzion]

The talk around here is that a page called links would look unprofessional on our site and I totally agree. I want to start a recipical links program for our website, but do not know how to get around not using a typical Links page.

We do have a customer page where I am acquiring links from and to all of them, but that is just part of my plan. Any ideas??

Thanks for any help!

[Leann_Pass]

To maintain a professional look and feel, I suggest calling this "resources" or "web resources" or something to that effect. Organize it well by topic and maintain links ONLY with sites or articles that REALLY are good related resources.

Leann

[Jill]

You could also start a little industry-related directory and do it that way.

[BrianR]

And if there's 'corporate resistance' to any type of links/ resource page, or to an industry-related directory, you can simply put each separate link on the most relevant page in your site.

BrianR

[kepa]

Directories add depth to your site. I would (and have) set up a directory specific to my audience to include link partners that complement or supplement what I do, speak about, or sell. There are many free scripts that are out there that not only can you use to customize the look and feel of your site, but also is self-sufficient when you allow the user to add their own link. Google for "Free Directory Scripts". Look for those with an administrative back end for reviewing links before they go "live" - and DO BE SELECTIVE. My directory requires very little maintenance, but has grown steadily on its own. Plus, I believe that others are more likely to remember a site where they have spent some time putting up a link or two, I know I do.

Directories are very professional and renaming it to something other than "LINKS" definitely helps. You'll find that others also link to you willingly because your directory is well thought out and useful. I use the term network, but I've also used the term resource, library, neighborhood and so on - depends on the audience. Again, a directory could give you a solid base for obtaining non-reciprocal links because it builds your credibility and worthiness in your field.

[Lastzion]

I do like the sound of a directory, but tell me, how does it promote your main site/?

I have site A, which I want to promote, I then make a directory called site B. I add customers, and related sites to start, and then once it gets going other sites will ask to publish their link etc. But how does that boost the link populairty for Site A?

Do you know what i mean?

Unless you add the directory directly on your site...... Then that gets back to the professinalism of it. If this is what you meant, kepa, could you send me an example of site that does this.

Thanks!!

[Matt B]

<This is Debra posting from Matt's laptop>

This topic could focus on your question from two perspectives Lastzion, let's look at this from both angles.

If the directory was to be on your site, categorize it by topic to make it easy for your visitors to view. Add your links in and around the others so your products are always showcased. After all, this IS your website.

If you decide to create a seperate, niche directory, adding your link along the bottom is fine. Would look more professional if you disclosed somewhere that the directory is yours. Take an ad out on relevant pages with a link back to your site. The directory is yours, you're PAYING for it, use it.

Creating niche industry directories can be a benefit to your site and those within your community regardless if done on your site or sepearately.

[Lastzion]

What would the benefits of having a in-house directory over a directory by itself?

From what i understand, using the in-house idea the main site would have a boost in link populiarity and more traffic would be driven directly to the site as well.

With a seperate directory, the traffic is not going to the "main site"; a visitor would have to click on a specified link to get them where i would want them to be. And who is say they wouldn't find something better there. Which is fine, but my main site is still not getting the link popularity out of it, which is my whole reason for the directory to begin with.

Am i missing anything/?

Does anyone have an example of an 'in-house directory"?

[Crichey]

No you're not missing anything. Having it separate does defeat the purpose you stated earlier. However, having it separate means you have more versality with the site since it is separate. You'll only get the benefit of a few links from it versus links from link partners by having the directory part of your main site.

[cline]

I like to work the links into the body copy by finding some pretext of mentioning the link partner.