A web directory is a site that lists other websites arranged by categories. The main benefit of a web directory is that it lets visitors find websites in different subjects and categories. Fon instance a person looking for websites about gardening can visit a web directory and in the gardening category that person will be able to find several websites relevant to that subject.
Most webmasters also list their websites on directories with the purpose of gaining backlinks to their websites.
But those are not the only benefits of web directories. The owners of most web directories have another great benefit: the opportunity to earn money.
These are the steps you need to follow in order to start a web directory and earn money with it.
Step 1: Decide what type of directory you want
There are general directories and niche directories. General directories accept websites that are relevant to most niches and subjects.
Niche directories accept websites that are pertinent to only certain niches. For instance, there are directories for gardening websites, technology websites, blogs, forums, do follow websites, business websites, etcetera.
If you decide to start a niche directory you obviously need to choose a popular niche. Starting a web directory about dog breeder businesses in your town would probably not be a good idea.
Step 2: Purchase the domain and web hosting account
This step is very easy. You can find cheap domains and webhosting at godaddy.com
Step 3: Install the script
In order to run a web directory you will need to install a script specially designed for web directories. There are many options inlcuding esyndicat, phpmydirectory and many others
Step 4: Customize the site
Once you have installed the script you can customize your directory changing colours, icons, headers and adding your own logo
Step 5: Monetize your directory
There are many different ways to monetize a web directory.
One of the most used ways to earn money with web directories is to charge a fee for each listing. You can set different options for listings, including for instance a free option, a reciprocate option (demanding a reciprocal link to your directory) and a paid option.
Another way to monetize a web directory is to use google adsense. You can also promote and sell affiliate products, promote your eBay store or sell your own products and services.
If you would like to make a comment, please fill out the form below.
What directories have you started? What script do you recommend? Are they really that easy? Do they come with a built in template for collecting “review” fees? Do you see any that manage to have toolbar PageRank on internal pages? Now, that could make you some money!