Top 5 Benefits of Business Web Directories
Functioning like the printed yellow pages published by your local phone company, online business web directories are there when your customers are looking for you.
The benefits of a listing in a business web directory - or directories - are many. However, the top five are as follows:
1. They increase exposure to your company.
2. They are usually free or relatively inexpensive.
3. They are accessible by anyone, at any time, provided they have access to the internet.
4. They can be easily updated or modified.
5. There are both general and topic-specific directories available.
Increasing Exposure
You need your clients and potential customers to know your name: a listing - or multiple listings - in a business web directory provides precisely that. Your directory listing is a "face" for your company, making the name, logo, and other information familiar. And people tend to turn to that which is familiar - they want to feel comfortable with their choice and a directory listing is a branding opportunity.
Free or Inexpensive Advertising
Many business web directories are free, though others may charge a small amount for listings. Some directories will charge for listings that appear at the top of the page when someone searches on a specific keyword or phrase. Your advertising budget is limited, and online directories are affordable. And the advertising is very targeted - it lets you get your company's name and contact information in front of those potential customers who are specifically looking for the products or services that you provide.
Ease of Access
The vast majority of people now have some form of internet access, and they use the internet to find information. Instead of turning to clunky printed directories, a fast and simple web search puts them directly in front of what they are seeking. This means a business web directory listing puts your business name at the forefront when a customer is looking for what you offer. And with the amazing growth in wireless internet access, people are able to access the internet from anywhere at any time, leading to instant conversions when a potential client reads your listing and contacts your company from the street.
Simple Updates
With print technology, you had to wait until a directory was updated to change or modify your listing. But with business web directories, all it takes is a few clicks to change your phone number or update your physical address - or add one if you are expanding. It is instantaneous and allows the directory visitors to have the most up-to-date information. Much more practical than advertising in print.
Different Directories
Perhaps your company specializes in just one or two products - in that case, a listing in a topical online business directory allows for more prominent placement than in a more general directory and shows the customer that you have specialized. If, on the other hand, your company is more of a general services provider, you can advertise in the less topic-based directories. And, with the remarkable rise in local searches, you can also choose a business directory that are specific to where you provide service.