PPC Listing Vs. Basic Free Listing: Should You Upgrade?

PPC Listing VS Basic Free Listing: Should You Upgrade?
Summary: Should you spring for a PPC listing upgrade or stick with a basic free listing? This article weighs all the options to stretch your marketing spend.

Why You Should Take It Up A Notch With A PPC Directory Listing

You probably visit directories like TripAdvisor and Yelp often, trying to find the best options. This is pretty much what directory submission sites are. They are publications where you can add a few key details regarding your company so people searching for relevant solutions can browse your business profile. Entering your business in these directories is usually very easy, as you can opt for the free version. However, to maximize visibility and appear at the top of the page, you should choose a PPC listing upgrade. A few of the perks include the addition of reviews and an easy-to-click button redirecting to your website.

Not only that, but entering your business at a directory site provides you with relevant backlinks, strengthening your SEO ranking. The more trustworthy backlinks you have, the more Google perceives you as a credible source. In fact, it's one of the main ranking factors. So, are you ready to make the investment and increase brand awareness and conversions?

Do you want to drive quality traffic to your free trial, demo, or contact us landing page?
Be featured in our niche directories and reach qualified corporate training buyers while they're searching for the ideal solutions. ($0.5/Click | $250 minimum monthly spend)

PPC Listing Upgrade Vs. Basic Business Listings

A basic business listing is free on most web directories, and you can create an account in a matter of minutes. Usually, it includes a company profile, features list, use cases, and a dedicated review section. Some enhanced directories allow private account management portals so that you can modify your listing to include new selling points even after your initial submission. Online business directories provide companies with greater exposure to potential customers. By adding your listing, you'll be able to target markets that you may find difficult to target on your own.

Also, keep in mind that users who visit directories are typically looking for solutions. Having your listing present gives your company the opportunity to connect with new prospects. What's more, entering a niche directory ensures that you are attracting high-value leads who are interested in training solutions. Finally, an ideal business directory allows customers to rate and review company performance. This particular section is very important. Why? Before making a big decision, potential customers consider feedback from peers and other people in a similar position. Having these testimonials, reviews, and ratings alongside your contact information will only help increase the popularity of your business.

So, what are the main benefits of a basic directory listing? A free directory listing will help you:

However, a free listing might not give you everything you need to reach your goals. For example, not every directory gives you an active backlink to your website. So, if you want to maximize your listing’s potential and generate more leads, opt for a PPC listing upgrade. It is one of the most cost-effective ways to promote your eLearning product or service and drive targeted traffic to your website.

Top Perks Of A PPC Directory Listing

What are the benefits of directories with PPC versus basic listings? While a free listing can still help you boost SEO and attract more qualified leads, a PPC campaign takes it to the next level. Below are a few standout perks of launching a business listing PPC strategy.

1. Premium Placement

Your eLearning business can use exclusive directories to improve online visibility. However, is a simple free listing enough? For example, a directory might have hundreds of solutions listed, just like yours. How do you stand out from the crowd? Surely, directory visitors might find your business by searching through some filters, but why not get their attention from the get-go?

A PPC directory listing generally comes with a premium placement that helps you outshine the competition and get your marketing goals on the fast track. Buyers are more likely to see your online training solutions first and click through to learn more. You never get lost in the promotional shuffle because your product or service is front and center.

2. CTA Button To Boost Conversions

Web directory link building is another notable perk that PPC listings bring to your business. Exclusive directories often allow you to include a CTA button, so buyers can visit your most converting landing pages directly instead of having to search for you online or jot down your name for later. The trick is to strike while the iron’s hot.

A CTA button prompts them to check out your site so that you can promote USPs and new features. In other words, click through and convert into a sale while you’re still fresh in their minds. For example, you might even use this CTA button to send users to a demo, free trial, or "contact us" landing page!

3. Landing Page Optimization

Creating a new listing is only the first step. Optimizing your copy to help readers understand your value and solutions is crucial to get the conversions you need. For this reason, PPC directory marketing might also feature landing page optimization consulting. Resident marketing experts can show you how to launch a successful PPC campaign for your eLearning business and maximize your reach.

For example, regarding eLearning Industry's directories, our consultants can evaluate your listing, landing page, bidding strategy and help you optimize it. By adjusting your layout and content, you can grab their attention and highlight your key selling points more effectively.

4. Flexible Geo-Bidding

Most marketing campaigns involve an all-or-nothing approach. You invest a set amount and take the risk. However, there are directories that allow your PPC campaigns to have a unique geo-bidding system. Hence, helping you to hedge your bets and create a max spending cap.

For instance, in our directories, you have the opportunity to target niche markets and locations. Another top customization option is the ability to choose where your listing appears in the niche directory. In short, you can custom tailor your budget and campaign settings to suit your promotional needs.

5. Performance Metrics

One of the drawbacks of traditional marketing techniques is the lack of oversight and adaptability. You have to wait for months for your efforts to pay off, or to even receive data for that matter. Plus, you never know if your tactics are actually working until after the fact, when it’s too late to fine-tune your approach.

A PPC directory listing gives you access to performance metrics and conversion reports right away. You’re able to view clicks, the average cost per click, conversions, conversion rate, and cost per lead with data-rich reports. As a result, you can adjust your marketing campaign to get even more from your directory page.

6. Opportunity For One-On-One Marketing Guidance

Setting up a new marketing strategy can be daunting. Where do you even begin? How much should you budget to get max results and hit your sales targets? Fortunately, you can find PPC business directories, like ours, which often include a Personal Account Manager who can guide you through the process.

So, when choosing a directory to run your PPC listing, make sure to ask around. Find out if they offer guidance and how they can help you make the most of your PPC listing campaigns.

Key Takeaway

It's not without justification that most SEO strategies include directory submission sites. They offer a great solution to many companies' backlink issues. No need to pay for questionable links anymore. A free directory and a PPC listing upgrade can do the trick for you. Not only do they place you at the top of the page, appearing higher than your competitors, but they also feature a CTA button that leads users straight to your website. Thanks to premium geo-bidding, you can target specific audience segments based on various characteristics, interests, and demographics. The best part is that you are in charge of your PPC submission, staying informed about its performance.

Here are the most popular types of eLearning niche directories where you can list your corporate training company:

Maybe you'd like to list your business for free and see if it's worth the investment before you upgrade to a PPC listing. However, many organizations implement PPC straight out of the gate to seize every sales opportunity.

Originally published on April 28, 2021
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