Uh, Kristen, what’s an article directory?
Well, I’m glad you asked! An article directory is basically a library of free articles, searchable by subject, author, or key word, to which writers can submit and from which website/newsletter/etc. owners can draw free content.
Here are 11 I found in less than 5 minutes of Googling, and there are SCADS of them out there:
ArticlePros.com
iSnare.com
ArticleWheel.com
ArticleCity.com
ArticlesBase.com
ArticleWorld.com
EzineArticles.com
IdeaMarketers.com
ContentTycoon.com
Contentmart.com
Constant-Content.com
(Please note: Just because I listed it here doesn’t mean that I endorse it, but this disclaimer doesn’t mean that you should avoid these sites, either. Do your homework and make informed choices about where — and if — you want to submit your articles.)
There’s a healthy debate raging across the internet as to whether writers should submit free articles to directories such as the ones listed above, and there are compelling arguments from both sides. A quick visit to Google will help you find some of those discussions if you want to learn more, but there are too many to list here!
And not because I think any of my readers are foolish, but because I’d hate myself if I didn’t say it, if you decide to make a go of article marketing, do not, I repeat, do NOT pay to submit your content to article directories. Seriously. Don’t. It’s completely unnecessary when there are dozens upon dozens of places that will allow you to submit for free.
Does that clear things up?
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www.kristenkingfreelancing.com
Finalist in 2006 Writer’s Digest Best Writer’s Website Contest
Contents © Copyright 2007 Kristen King. All rights reserved.
Contents Copyright © 2006-2014 Kristen King
Comments on this entry are closed.
Color me clueless, but why would ESTABLISHED writers want to submit articles for FREE to article directories?
Can you please explain the concept of “article marketing”? How does this help my freelance writing career?
I’ve seen so much poorly written (and sometimes flat out incorrect) content at these sights, particularly on the topics that I cover, that I just can’t bear to be a part of that. I’ve seen call-outs for these kinds of places too, and if they pay, they pay by volume – not exactly the best motivation to write well.
I’m not saying these sites can’t work for some people, but I wouldn’t recommend it without exhausting all the other avenues for online recognition.
That said, I’ve only sent out 3 queries since the challenge started – so who am I to have an opinion on anything? :P
Thank you Kristen!
Thanks, Kristen. I’d asked Suzanne and Yvonne about it on their sites, beacuse of their challenge — why would I write and submit to an article directory when I’m getting contracted and paid assignments directly from magazines?
So, I don’t think that’s the route for me. But thanks for clearing it up.
I’m going to resist the urge to answer those comments critical of article marketing techniques. I think there’s some confusion there, but I’m sure you’ll do a wonderful job extolling its virtues, etc.
My clients and I have discovered that submitting to EzineArticles.com and a few other higher-profile directories usually does the trick. Other directories pick up material at the top-tier sites, so submitting there usually has a nice trickle-down effect.
Those interested in using other directories, smaller ones or niche-focused options might find these lists handy:
http://www.articler.com/9746/big-list-of-article-directories.html
http://www.arcanaweb.com/resources/article-directories.html
http://forums.digitalpoint.com/showthread.php?t=36071
Carson
I’m on some tight deadlines today, but I promise to elucidate once that stuff is taken care of. In the meantime, really, use Google. There’s so much great info out there on both sides of the coin, and you’ll be able to tailor your search to the info you’re most interested in.
I would like to share my research & analysis on Best 100+ Articles Directory
URL – http://www.brainbubbles.biz/Best-Articles-Directory_Writing_content_26.aspx