Local Search Engines And Directories – Still Relevant?
Can you name your local search engine or directory? Don’t fret – if you are like most folks out there, you’re probably saying “No” right now. Whether or not your local or regional area even has a dependable local web search or directory service is probably questionable too. The thing is, while local search is steadily proving itself as the wave of the future, the way it is actually happening is a bit different than many would expect.
The History Of Local Search And Directories
At one point in the brief history of the web, local search engines and directories were actually quite prevalent. Lots of people started their web surfing experience from a home page directory provided from their local ISP or perhaps another popular local directory and search service. However, most of the time, they were using a local resource to find worldwide information.
Once the web really started to mature, giving us the major players like Yahoo, Google, and MSN, the way the web worked for most people began to turn full circle. Now, instead of using a local resource to find worldly resources, web users are using major international resources, such as the major search engines, to find extremely targeted local information. And the best part? It works.
Today, It’s Best To Focus On The Major 3 Players
Because most web searchers today rely almost exclusively on the big three search engines – Google, Yahoo, and MSN – there is very little need for web developers to give extensive attention to other local search engines and directories. The major players do local really well themselves; plus, they already have a stronghold on such a large percentage of the web’s traffic. The key to success with local search is to optimize sites to work well with the local platforms of these major players.
Of Course, Sometimes There Is An Exception To The Rule
You know your local market better than anyone else. If there happens to be a really good local search engine or local directory that is popular in your area (often a service provided by a local media outlet), then by all means, go ahead and submit your site for listing there. As long as submission doesn’t come with a hefty price tag, there’s really nothing to lose. In some cases, the major search engines will even use this type of local listing as a way to verify and improve their own listings.
While local search is going stronger than ever, locally-based search engines and directories are more or less a thing of the past. For the maximum benefit, it’s best to focus on achieving rock solid local results with the big three search engines – after all, that’s where the traffic is.
