Introduction: Over the past year, Google has implemented several updates that have significantly impacted the directory industry. For directory owners, these changes can be both a challenge and an opportunity to adapt and thrive. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the specific actions Google has taken and explore proactive steps that directory owners can take to succeed in this new reality.

Google’s Updates: Google’s Panda and Penguin updates have had a particularly significant impact on directory owners. Panda aimed to score the quality of text on web pages, making it more difficult for low-quality content and empty or pre-loaded categories to rank well. Penguin targeted unnatural linking patterns, rendering many traditional SEO tactics ineffective. Additionally, Google introduced the disavow tool, allowing site owners to request the removal of unnatural links and disavow domains or URLs that negatively impact their rankings.

Directory Strategies: Directory owners must choose the best strategy to adapt to Google’s changing algorithms. Here are three options to consider:

1. The Anti-Google Path: Some directory owners may prefer to profit from links submitted to their directories without regard for quality. However, this strategy is often viewed as unethical and is likely to harm the directory’s reputation and authority over time.
2. Go Local or Niche: Focusing on a particular niche or local market is a viable strategy for directory owners seeking to become less dependent on Google for traffic and revenue. By providing quality content and building a targeted email list, directory owners can reach their audience directly and develop relationships with customers and vendors.
3. The Google Way: Adapting to Google’s algorithm updates by providing high-quality content, removing low-quality links, and optimizing for Google Authorship can be an effective strategy for some directory owners. Utilizing the disavow tool to remove harmful links can also improve rankings.

Conclusion: While Google’s updates have had a significant impact on the directory industry, directory owners have the power to adapt and thrive. By choosing the best strategy for their business, they can remain successful in the new reality post-Google apocalypse. Remember, success in the directory industry requires building relationships with customers and vendors and providing quality content that adds value to your niche or local market. With these strategies in mind, directory owners can navigate Google’s impact and succeed in this ever-changing digital landscape.

P.S. Stay tuned for the release of phpLD Local, a new edition of our directory software designed for local businesses. We’re excited to continue supporting directory owners in their success!