How to get into Yahoo

Everyone wants to get their site listed in Yahoo. Why? Because it is considered by "most" the Biggest and Best "Search Engine". When in reality, it isn't a search engine, but a searchable directory.

Since it is a directory, your listing request has to be added manually by a real person who views your site, not indexed with keyword weight and such like the spiders will do. This can work FOR you, or AGAINST you. The person who views your site has total control of if you do, or don't get listed in the directory. If they like your site, you may get listed the first time, if not it may take several submissions to become listed. Lead time for being listed is anywhere from 8-14 weeks (if you get listed at all).

When you suggest your site to Yahoo, ensure you are filling out the forms EXACTLY as requested. If you put 26 words in the field that only allows 25, the screener will "normally" drop your submission request right them, as you DID NOT FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS!

When selecting the Category you wish to have your site listed, it is VERY IMPORTANT that you select the Category that best suits your site. If you have a site that deals in Used Car Parts, don't try to select a Category like Fax Machines, you will only waste their time and yours. The request WILL BE REJECTED.

Tip 1: When preparing to select your Category, do a search for your MAIN KEYWORDS and see which Category the majority of your competition is listed under, and request your listing there.

Tip 2: Yahoo Listings are by Title, and Alpha. What that means if your web site Title is "Zeke's Used Parts", you will come up in the bottom of a search for Used Parts. However, if you have a Title of "A Great Site to find Used Parts, Zeke's Automotive", then you will be listed toward the top as the Title starts with an "A".

I have mentioned in previous EZines that you should have your own domain name. By your own domain name I don't mean: http://www.angelfire.com/spokane/biz/internet/44586/WA/Index.html But like this: http://www.spokanebizinternet.com

Why? Because it makes you more legitimate. Anyone can get a free webpage on 100's of servers, and they don't get the same respect as if you have your own domain name. The screeners at Yahoo will tend to list a "Real" domain over the angelfire example above, as it appears to be a business, or organization. Your chances of getting listed with a "Real" domain are probably 1000 times better than with a Free Site. If you are really serious about your site, get a Virtual Domain.

Don't want to wait 8-14 weeks? Then use the Yahoo Business Express Service (only $199 USD). Within 7 business days they will give you a YES or NO answer on your listing. It is NOT A GUARANTEE that you will be listed, just "Head of the line priveleges" will be given to your site. This is a GREAT SERVICE, however, if you are NOT listed, they don't tell you why. You get that email that says "Considered, Not Listed". Additionally, you can't write back and ask why you were not listed, the decision is totally up to the individual screener.

Bottom line, Make a good looking site with good content, find your category, and fill out the forms EXACTLY as requested. You may have to submit 6 times to get listed, or maybe only once. The above should be taken SERIOUSLY if you want to get listed. It just takes Patience and Time. If after 12 weeks from the date you submitted your site you cannot be found, then chances are that you should submit again.

Rod Truitt
Webmaster
http://theusmall.com
http://www.the-peoples.net

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