If you’re thinking about starting a web directory that offers only an option for reciprocal listings, you may want to think again.  Unless you are already trusted within the webmaster community, the project is doomed to fail.  The reason is because most people value their own site more than a new site from an unknown source.  Therefore, few will want to add a free link to your site, not to mention the time it takes to implement the link.  Starting off with only this option will do you more harm than good, even if you do get some submissions and links.  There are several reasons for this:

• When you list with other directories, your site will be classified as a reciprocal directory, and fewer people submit to reciprocal only directories than free or even paid.
• When you start a directory this way, and it is labeled as reciprocal, it’s not easy to get it changed everywhere if you have promoted the directory.
• First impressions can be key.  When someone sees the directory is reciprocal, it may be ignored when referenced in the future.

You may be wondering what the solution would be.  If you don’t want to offer completely free listings, offer an affordable paid (featured) option.  Featured listings will do better than regular paid when there’s a free reciprocal option because of perception from the free reciprocal and additional value from the featured listing option.  $1 - $5 per featured listing will generate some revenue for the site, bring more listings, get your site properly labeled, and prevent bad first impressions.  If you work hard to promote and establish the site, you would be able to adjust prices later.     

This entry was posted on Saturday, August 18th, 2007 at 4:18 pm and is filed under Tips for Directory Owners. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.