Getting dragged down in the numbers game is not hard to do. Of the many reasons that mass directory submissions continue the link building process, one deals with a logical business process. That process would be the necessity to pinpoint a method that would be able to be consistently measured. Three good quality, sustainable links are more valuable to a client than fifty minor submissions.
In reality, it’s a lot like giving a toddler 50 pennies for three dollar bills. You may satisfy your client or manager in the short run, but if your focus is on results then it’s irresponsible. The danger lies in this focus on measurable metrics, to such an extent that this impedes the processes that create actual results.
Free directories are not all alike. Some of them will approve instantly, when others will take months, or never will approve. Make sure to use good judgment when submitting to directories, making sure those directories will provide staying power for your links, while also that they stick around, and don’t drop off the face of the earth after a few months.
More importantly, make sure to take time to grow relationships on the web, this will result in valuable links for you. When writing emails to webmasters of sites relevant to your industry, make sure they are not spammy, and are personalized. Use your own creativity by exploring more innovative approaches than merely copying and pasting information over and over again.
If you work on links on blogs relevant to your industry, this can multiply for you. Try not to get caught up in the numbers and discover better ways to increase your effectiveness, and your clients will be much more responsive.
