In an effort to support local business during the covid-19 pandemic, NexToronto has launched the Stouffville Business Directory.

The aim of the website is to help businesses in the area improve search visibility online, geotarget their customers and improve their websites search ranking.

Some may argue that directories are pretty meaningless considering anything can just be Google’d to provide  the desired website listing or basic information associated with a company through Google My Business such as location, reviews, contact information and store hours.

Some may argue that there is no SEO benefit from getting your business information/link placed on a website.

I disagree.

In this article we’re going to explore 5 reasons why getting your business listed in a business directory can be beneficial for your website and overall online presence.

1. Improve search engine visiblity

It’s quite common for a business websites to lack on-page SEO, which is the practice of optimizing pages within a website for search visibility, ranking and to attain more traffic.

On the other hand, directory websites typically follow an SEO protocol to ensure that businesses have a better chance of being found in search engines by implementing on-page SEO for their listings.

If a businesses listing is on a directory that is optimized for search, the chances of a business being found online can be improved.

2. Improve your websites ranking in Google

In relation to the previous point. Having your website listed in a business directory can also further optimize your own website.

A backlink is created when a website to another and sometimes referred to as inbound links.

In simple terms, a backlink counts as a vote for your website that can ultimately enhance your websites ranking in Google.

Google will also examine additional factors from the source website such as domain authority score, relevance and the text used in the link itself (also known as anchor text).

Having your businesses link on a directory website can certainly provide SEO benefits and shouldn’t be disregarded.

3. Geotarget your customers

Many directories may choose to focus on a particular geographic area which can help your business connect with potential customers or businesses in your area.

Our newly created Stouffville Business directory does just that. Our aim is to connect businesses and customers within the community of Stouffville.

4. Create brand awareness

While most companies will spend a lot of money investing on traditional advertising such as print and radio.

A business directory can improve brand awareness through articles, banners and a well developed listing.

Brand awareness will also be achieved through the previously mentioned SEO benefits. If your website is ranking higher in the search results, chances are you’re website is getting more exposure.

5. It’s a low cost investment

In most cases, getting your website listed in business directories is free.

Unfortunately, it can be a very tedious task having to locate, register and submit your business information on various directories.

Of course you can save yourself the time and effort and just hire NexToronto to provide you with a high quality directory submission package for only $250.

Final Thoughts

Directory submissions has certainly received a bad rap however still have their place as part of an SEO strategy.