Using Online Directories to Get Backlinks, Does it Work?

In the last few years, you can't talk about the best ways of building backlinks without mentioning the use of online directories. But does this link building with online directories still work today? Do they provide valuable backlinks? Can they legitimately improve your search engine rankings?

As you read on, you'll discover the answers to your questions. Experts at KarmaLinks created this post to help you better understand why you should (or shouldn’t) rely on online directories for link building. As you read on, below are a few things you’ll learn:

• What exactly is directory link building?
• What are the benefits of using online directories to get backlinks?
• Understanding the different types of backlink directories
• How to select a high-quality web directory?
• What are the best practices for building great directory backlinks?

Try KarmaLinks.io today!

Are you currently looking to build directory backlinks that count? If yes, then we recommend trying this alternative solution—the use of backlink exchange platforms. A good example is KarmaLinks. This exchange club allows you to generate backlinks using a point-based system.

It's simple, you need to give backlinks to earn points. With your accumulated Karma points, you’ll be able to acquire backlinks that matter from authoritative websites.

What is directory link building?

Before talking about directory link building, let's start by talking about “online directories.” Online Directories are designed to list websites based on their niches, industries, or locations. This listing makes it easy for people to find relevant services quickly.

Directory link building is an old SEO strategy that's still effective today. It involves submitting your website link or contact information to top-rated online directories. Once you get listed on authoritative directories, your website will get quality backlinks. Keep in mind that you’ll only achieve results when you get listed on reputable and niche-specific directories.

Benefits of using online directories to get backlinks

Does using online directories still work today for backlinks? The simple answer is yes! Below are a few benefits associated with directory link building in 2025:

• First, this approach improves search engine rankings. But understand that this is only possible if you get listed on reputable and high-authority directories.
• Directory link building offers increased website traffic. When potential buyers search for specific products or services you offer, they may get directed to your website. This targeted referral traffic can increase your brand's conversion rate.
• Directory link building also offers Local SEO benefits. This means it's ideal for brands looking to target local audiences. One way to achieve results is by getting listed on location-based directories. This allows your website to rank higher in the areas you serve.
• Directory listing helps potential customers to discover your business quickly. This level of exposure is all you need to achieve better online visibility.
• Lastly, listing on online directories comes with long-term benefits. Unlike marketing ads, backlinks from authoritative directories tend to stay active for extended periods. This provides you with consistent website visibility over time.

Understanding the different types of directories for link-building

Today, online directories are available in different types. Getting familiar with each type, including their strengths and weaknesses, matters. It’ll help you make informed decisions when doing your directory link-building.

General web directories

General web directories have a wide range of categories and industries for listing websites. You'll certainly get results that matter on these directories because of their versatility.

One drawback of general web directories is that their audiences are not often highly targeted. Apart from that, everything else about these directories is beneficial. You can rely on them to acquire high-quality backlinks.

Niche-specific directories 

Niche directories are industry-specific platforms. They only focus on specific industries or areas of interest. Today, there are healthcare-specific directories. There are directories for travel, technology, and many others.

By submitting your website details on these directories, you can quickly reach potential audiences who have strong interests in what you offer. The bottom line is that backlinks from niche directories are highly valuable for lead generation.

Local business directories

Local business directories are highly popular today. Some examples include:

• Google My Business
• Yellow Pages
• Yelp

You should consider these directories if you're more interested in targeting audiences in a specific location. These directories offer local SEO benefits.

B2B directories 

Business-to-business directories are specifically designed for companies to connect with other businesses. They provide businesses with the opportunities to build better business relationships. They also enhance lead generation and deliver high-authority backlinks.

Government Directories

Government directories are designed to support businesses. They are high-authority directories but not for commercial purposes. You can rely on these directories to build valuable and credible backlinks that matter.

How to select a high-quality web directory?

To choose a reliable web directory for link building today, we recommend factoring in the following things:

• Traffic
• Directory relevance
• Domain authority 
• Website indexation
• Listing Quality
• Website design

Does the directory get enough visitors? You should start by asking this question before choosing your ideal platform. More visitors means more referral traffic—this will increase your chances of achieving quality backlinks. Use tools, such as Ahrefs Website Traffic Checker, to determine if the directory has enough active visitors.

The relevance of the directory to your niche also matters. Ensure to use a directory that has a dedicated category for the services or products you offer.

Having high domain authority doesn't necessarily mean a directory will give you more juicy backlinks. That’s so because the links are no-follow. However, we still advise checking this metric. It allows you to be sure you're dealing with a high-quality directory.

Website indexation matters. It allows your website to achieve SEO benefits. You should only choose a directory that's indexed. This increases your brand exposure and drives referral traffic.

Lastly, avoid spammy directories. You should only focus on reputable directories with a modern website design.

What are the best practices for building great directory backlinks

To build great directory backlinks, below are a few best practices we recommend:

• Always be ready to look for new opportunities
• Ensure to add rich keywords in your listing titles and bodies. This will certainly improve your website visibility.
• Make your products stand out by writing a Good description.
• Stay up-to-date with your listings. This is especially important as your products or services evolve.