Increase Blogger Blog Traffic by Using the Free Blog Catalogue Directory

Blog Catalogue is a free online blog directory. Its purpose is to allow bloggers to promote their own blogs in order to increase targeted traffic, find blogs created by others, and to network with other bloggers. This article provides detailed information about using the Blog Catalogue directory to increase traffic to a Blogger blog.

There are many blog directories to help increase traffic; some offer free services, whilst others require annual payment. One of the best free services is Blog Catalogue - a sophisticated mixture between a blog directory and a networking site, with numerous functions, such as a member's only forum, and the ability to review and 'favourite' listed blogs, join groups, befriend other bloggers, etc. Blog Catalogue also provides a list of useful tools and resources for bloggers, which members are able to review, creating a link to their profile page. Each group also has it's own discussion area for group members. The only condition of use (besides the blog being approved) is that you must add a blog catalogue button to your blog's front-page.

Both personal and professional bloggers are welcome at Blog Catalogue. Signing up is very straightforward, although it does take several business days for each new blog to be approved, and if you need to edit details (due to a spelling error or other adjustment) the blog will return to the back of the approval queue. In the meantime, you will be asked to provide a blog description and related keywords, as well as to create a profile. Throw yourself into this aspect of it - you're here to promote your blog, so use this opportunity to sell your blog and your personality to potential readers. The more appealing your profile is the more traffic your blog will receive.

Because of the superior functions provided by Blog Catalogue, it is possible to generate traffic to your blog quickly and easily. However, due to the review function, it is advisable not to register your blog until you have several pages of quality content, and not to become an active member of any groups or the forum until you are 100% happy with the look and functionality of your blog.

To get the most out of using Blog Catalogue it essential to join whichever (active) groups are relevant to your blog content, make friends with other members, review blogs, broadcast announcements, and generally be an active member of the network. Registering will bring a trickle of visitors, but to increase traffic in any real capacity regular participation in the Blog Catalogue community is required. The more active you are in the forum and group discussions, the more members will see (and may click on) the link to your profile. This can mean an increase traffic to your blog, and in members reviewing and rating your blog. Your blog will be internally ranked by Blog Catalogue, so the better reviews your blog receives, the higher up the list it will climb. The highest ranking blogs appear on the first page of category results, and so on; appearing on page one or two greatly increases your chances of increasing traffic and gaining subscribers or followers.

There is also an option to upgrade your membership to a paid service, providing far greater exposure within the Blog Catalogue community. There are two upgrade options, one starting at $8 p/m, and the second at $60 p/m. Option one is arranged on a first-come, first-served basis, and your money will get you a top five slot for your particular niche, and sponsor links leading to your profile, which links to your blog. Option two puts your blog in the spotlight slot on the first page of your blog category, and is guaranteed to increase traffic, with sponsor links redirecting to your blog.