Introduction
Ever wondered why some websites seem to climb search rankings overnight? It often boils down to Domain Authority and the strength of your backlink profile. In fact, higher authority sites tend to outrank competitors with lower scores (Moz).
In this ultimate guide, you’ll learn how submitting your site to high domain authority directory submission sites can earn you powerful backlinks, boost credibility, and drive more traffic your way. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in.
Understand domain authority
What is domain authority?
Domain Authority (DA) is a score from 1 to 100 that predicts how well a website might rank in search results. Moz developed this machine-learning metric based on backlink data, including the number and quality of linking root domains (Moz).
Why it matters for SEO
Sites with stronger authority scores tend to command better positions in search engine results pages. While DA itself isn’t a direct Google ranking factor, it correlates closely with factors that do influence rankings, like backlink quality and diversity.
How DA is calculated
Moz’s algorithm weighs key backlink metrics, such as:
- The number of unique referring domains
- The overall quality and trustworthiness of those domains
- Other engagement signals that reflect site authority
Checking your DA
Before you start submitting, you’ll want to know your current score. You can use tools such as Moz’s Link Explorer and other domain authority checker tools to grab your latest number. This baseline helps you track improvements after you build new backlinks.
Explore directory submission benefits
Before you invest time in listing your site, let’s be honest: you want results. Directory submission packs several perks that play nicely with your SEO strategy.
Earn high-quality backlinks
- Do-follow links from reputable directories transfer “ranking juice” back to your site
- These backlinks help diversify your link profile, reducing risk if a single outreach tactic fizzles
Tip: directory submissions complement other tactics like our high domain authority backlinks strategy.
Increase visibility and referral traffic
Many directories rank highly in search results. When users browse them, you can get referral clicks and even direct leads.
Boost local SEO performance
Listing on local directories—think Yelp or Yellow Pages—helps you show up in map results and geo-targeted searches. This is critical if you rely on foot traffic or serve a specific area (GetFound).
Establish brand credibility
Being listed in established directories signals to both search engines and potential customers that your business is legitimate. It’s like an online seal of approval.
Identify top submission sites
Ready to meet your next backlink allies? Here are some high domain authority directory submission sites to consider. We’ve split them into general and niche-specific categories so you can pick what fits your business.
General business directories
| Directory | DA | Link type | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yelp | 94 | do-follow | Free |
| YellowPages | 93 | do-follow | Free |
| Crunchbase | 91 | do-follow | Free |
| Business.com | 92 | do-follow | Paid |
Niche-specific directories
| Directory | DA | Focus | Link type | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avvo | 88 | Legal pros | do-follow | Free |
| Capterra | 89 | Software | do-follow | Free |
| TripAdvisor | 93 | Travel | do-follow | Free |
| ThomasNet | 90 | Manufacturing | do-follow | Free |
Pro tip: if guest posts are on your radar, check out these top high da guest posting sites for another way to snag quality links.
Prepare for directory submissions
You don’t want to rush the process. A little prep goes a long way.
- Gather your business details: official name, address, phone number, website URL
- Write a unique, concise description (100–200 words) that highlights your offering and includes relevant keywords
- Select the most accurate category for your business—misclassification can cost you visibility
- Prepare assets like a logo or cover image that meet each directory’s size requirements
- List your primary and secondary keywords, but avoid stuffing. Natural language wins every time
Submit to high DA directories
Let’s walk through the submission process step by step.
- Choose a directory from your shortlist
- Verify its current DA with one of the domain authority checker tools
- Read and follow the submission guidelines precisely—don’t skip the fine print
- Use your crafted business description and keywords naturally
- Fill out the online form, upload images, and double-check your contact info
- Note the submission date, status (pending or live), and any confirmation emails
Quick submission reminders
- Always use consistent business details to avoid confusion
- Avoid copying and pasting the same description word for word across directories
- Space out submissions over several weeks rather than doing them all at once
Track your submission results
After your listings go live, keep an eye on their impact.
- Referral traffic: check Google Analytics for visits coming from directory domains
- New backlinks: use tools like Ahrefs or Moz to spot added links in your profile
- Domain Authority changes: compare your score periodically to see uplifts
- Keyword rankings: track target terms in your SEO tool
A simple table can help you log and compare metrics over time:
| Metric | Before submission | After 3 months |
|---|---|---|
| Referral sessions | 0 | |
| New backlinks | 0 | |
| Domain Authority | ||
| Top keyword position |
Maintain your listings
Your work doesn’t end after submission. Keep listings fresh and accurate to protect your SEO gains.
- Update any changes in business hours, address, or services promptly
- Monitor for duplicate or spammy entries that could dilute your profile
- Remove listings on directories that become low quality or de-indexed
- Check periodically that your backlinks remain live and do-follow
Review key takeaways
- Domain Authority (DA) is a relative score that reflects your site’s ranking potential (Moz)
- Directory submissions deliver high-quality backlinks, referral traffic, and local SEO boosts
- Focus on reputable, high DA sites—general and niche directories both have value
- Prepare accurate business details, write unique descriptions, and follow guidelines
- Track referral visits, new backlinks, and DA changes to measure success
- Keep your listings updated to maximize long-term benefits
Ready to boost your site’s credibility and visibility? Pick one high DA directory from the list and submit your business today. Then come back and let us know how it worked for you in the comments below.
