How Will People Find My Business Blog? 20 Useful Directories

One of the most frequent questions I hear from business bloggers is How on earth do I get visitors to my site now that I've set up my blog?! This ain't The Natural - if you build it, they won't come unless they actually know it's there. So how do you get more eyeballs on your blog? The easiest ways to promote your blog also happen to be the cheapest (how often do you get to say that?!). Try this:

1. Blog regularly. Frequent bloggers typically get ranked higher in search engines.
2. Tell everyone you know about your blog. If you use MySpace, FaceBook, LinkedIn or any other social networking site, let those networks know about your blog.
3. Add your blog to any forum signatures you have.
4. Link to your blog from your website home page.
5. Comment on other people's blogs (make sure your comments are useful and relevant).
   
6. Register your blog in as many free blog directories as possible (see the list below).
   

Free Blog Listing Directories:
Bigger Blogger
Blogarama
Blog Catalog
Blog Flux
Bloggapedia
BloggernityBlogging Fusion
Blog Hints
Blog Hop
Blog Listing
Blogoozle
Blog Rankings
Blog-search.com
Blog Top List
Eaton Web
Globe of Blogs
MyBlogLog
SuperBlog Directory
Top of Blogs
WeBlogALot

When using the above directories, look for a "Submit Blog" or "Add a Blog" link and follow the instructions carefully (most directories will disqualify your blog if you don't read their directions and terms line for line). There are plenty of additional directories you can turn up with a quick Google search, but I've avoided listing those that charge a fee or require a reciprocal link. I guess I'm just a no-strings-attached kind of girl. You will, however, often have to create an account with most of these directories (just be sure to opt out of any mailing lists, unless you want to be bombarded with silly tip sheets). You should never pay to list your blog - it's just not necessary.

Finally, some folks suggest adding your blog URL to your email signature and/or your business card. I've found that these approaches tend to be pretty ineffective, and the latter may well distract viewers from your business URL (which is where you really want them to go).