directory vrs web page

[Ed Champion]

I know this is a simple basic question to those that already have the answer, but here goes.

What is the difference in a web page listing and a directory listing? When i do a search with MSN i get directory listings at the top of the page.

Does this mean that if i use the look smart paid registry, that my website will be in the top of the page with the directory returns? [good optimization help of course :) ]

If this is the case, then paid registry would seem like the best way to go.

thanks,

[ihelpyou]

You are absolutely correct Ed! This assumes that the keyword phrase you are targeting does bring up the directory listings at MSN. Some keywords will only bring up the Inktomi database, which is "web pages".

You said that your search revealed directory results, so that is Looksmart. It just depends what you are searching for. Directory listings are always first on MSN if there are any listings available for the particular search.

[markymark]

Ed, for general terms (like 'real estate' for example), a Looksmart listing is the way to go. However, if you decide to target very specific phrases to do with your business, then the Ink. listings take priority. Take a district in your area where you sell houses and for a term like 'x district real estate', then the chances are the Ink listings will be at the top. Okay, so 'x district real estate' only gets 10 searches a week, but add up all the districts you can optimize for and that's a lot of targeted traffic you can bring to your site.

My advice is go for the Looksmart listing but make sure you target individual pages also. And, if you've got plenty of cash to spend on web marketing, go the Ink. paid inclusion route as well.

[ihelpyou]

Yes Ed. The easiest way to do it is to simply do searches at MSN on the good keyword phrases for your site. Each search will reveal whether or not there are Looksmart listings. (web sites) listed first. If not, you will see the Inktomi "web pages" in the first results. This will tell you whether to get a LS listing or not.

ALthough, a LS listing will help with other engines as well.