Before getting deeper into the subject of links directories and one way links, it would probably be wise to consider what each of the two major parts are in this process. Links directories are, quite simply, an extensive list of Web site links that are usually edited by real people (rather than computer generated only). The most effective of these directories will have the hundreds of links and other information carefully separated into categories, generally by subject of interest or topic.

What makes them particularly useful (if they are properly maintained) is that they are a quick and easy way to find others who are working in the same specific area. The connections made between sites can be quite successful in the long term. If the sale of products or services is involved, good networking through a link directory can also be very profitable.

But there is more to the process than just flooding the Web with your links and hoping that someone will connect with you by finding you on a directory. There are dozens of directories, many of them free, so there are plenty of opportunities to get your link and Web site in front of a select group of visitors. But how do one way links work in this process.

A one way link takes someone to your Web site from another location. The other site does not receive a link from your Web site. That's it, in the proverbial nut shell. It's important to understand this when studying the subject of links directories.

While this may seem like the two people involved have only done half the work and are not getting all the benefit available, the truth is a one way link tells others that your content or a simple connection to you is very valuable. If a Web site has a high number of links that go only one way the site will have excellent popularity. Because of the quality and number of these links, search engines will rank your site very high on the list.

A wise old fellow once said that some activities just naturally separate the men from the ribbon clerks and one way links do this, in a way. At one time, many Web site managers and owners tried to boost their “popularity” by overloading the links directories market with reciprocal links. Essentially, these give both parties a link and, for awhile, give the appearance of popularity.

Search engines and site owners soon became wise to this scam and now the emphasis is on quality, reliability and true popularity due to content. So what is now necessary is to come up with sites that are actually useful to others. This means we shouldn't have to beg for links, which is just another way of saying, “Help, I don't have good stuff but I want people to think I do!”

When you start your links directories program, use major directories, quality, free directories and articles directories. Make tactful and friendly contact with sites that are closely related to your area of interest. Happy linking.