What Is Directory Submission in SEO & What Is Classified Submission in SEO?

Search engine optimization is a puzzle made up of hundreds of small pieces — some technical, others creative. Among the lesser-discussed but still useful tactics are directory submissions and classified submissions.

So, if you’ve ever asked, “What is directory submission in SEO?” or “What is classified submission in SEO?”, this blog is for you.

We’ll break down both techniques, how they work, their benefits, and how to use them effectively without running afoul of Google’s guidelines.

What Is Directory Submission in SEO?

Directory submission in SEO refers to the process of submitting your website URL and business details to online directories or listing websites. Think of it as the digital version of getting your business listed in the Yellow Pages.

How It Works

You submit your website to a web directory — a curated list of websites categorized by niche or industry. These directories often include your:

• Website URL

• Title or name

• Brief description

• Keywords

• Category

• Contact information

Some popular examples of directory sites include:

• DMOZ (now defunct, but once huge)

• Jasmine Directory

• Hotfrog

• Spoke

• BOTW (Best of the Web)

Types of Directory Submission:

1. Free Submission: No cost, but approval may take time.

2. Paid Submission: Faster and often more authoritative.

3. Reciprocal Submission: You link back to their site, and they list yours.

Benefits of Directory Submission for SEO

While not as powerful as they once were, directory submissions still offer certain SEO benefits — especially for new websites.

✅ Backlink Generation

Each submission usually results in a backlink, which can help boost your domain authority if the directory itself is reputable.

✅ Local SEO Boost

Submitting to local directories like Google Business Profile, Yelp, and JustDial helps improve visibility in local searches.

✅ Indexing Support

If your site is new, directory submissions can help search engines discover and index it faster.

✅ Niche Authority

Being listed in niche-specific directories signals relevance and credibility to search engines.

Best Practices for Directory Submission

To make the most out of directory submissions, follow these tips:

• Choose quality directories: Avoid spammy sites with low domain authority.

• Keep NAP consistent: Your Name, Address, and Phone number should be identical across listings.

• Use relevant categories: Make sure your business is listed under the most appropriate category.

• Avoid duplicate content: Write a unique description for each directory when possible.

What Is Classified Submission in SEO?

Now that we’ve covered directory submissions, let’s look at what is classified submission in SEO.

Classified submission refers to posting ads or business listings on classified websites (similar to online bulletin boards). These platforms allow users to promote services, products, job listings, or business offers.

Common classified submission sites include:

• OLX

• Craigslist

• Quikr

• Click.in

• Locanto

How Classified Submissions Help in SEO

Classified sites receive millions of visitors every day. A well-crafted ad can help bring traffic, build visibility, and earn backlinks — even if they’re no-follow.

Here’s how classified submissions aid your SEO strategy:

✅ Drive Referral Traffic

Many classified ads include links back to your site. While not all links pass link juice, they can still drive real traffic.

✅ Improve Brand Visibility

Showing up in multiple local and national classifieds builds awareness for your brand.

✅ Assist with Indexing

Search engines regularly crawl classified sites, so your listings can get picked up and help your own site get noticed.

✅ Enhance Local Presence

If you’re targeting specific regions or cities, classified submissions can help establish relevance in those areas.

Tips to Optimize Classified Submissions for SEO

Just like any SEO tactic, classified submissions work best when done strategically. Here’s how to get the most out of them:

✅ Use Relevant Titles

Include your primary keyword or service name naturally in your classified post title.

✅ Add Keywords to the Description

Don’t keyword stuff, but include a few relevant search terms in the ad copy.

✅ Add a CTA and Contact Info

A strong call to action (e.g., “Call Now,” “Visit Website”) can improve engagement.

✅ Use High-Traffic Classified Sites

Choose sites with decent domain authority and a history of regular user activity.

Directory vs. Classified Submission: What’s the Difference?

While they sound similar, directory submission and classified submission serve slightly different purposes:

Both methods can complement each other if used wisely.

Are These Techniques Still Relevant in 2025?

The SEO world is evolving rapidly. Google’s algorithms are getting smarter, and link-building strategies are under more scrutiny than ever. So are directory and classified submissions still worth your time?

Yes — but with caution.

They shouldn’t be your primary SEO strategy, but they’re useful for:

• New websites looking for visibility

• Local businesses targeting geo-specific traffic

• Brands trying to build foundational backlinks

Avoid low-quality spammy sites, don’t automate the process, and always keep your business information consistent.

Neither technique is a silver bullet, but when combined with high-quality content, strong technical SEO, and a sound backlink strategy, they can contribute meaningfully to your overall SEO efforts.