I tried the directorie list of seomoz, but almost all of them charged for the inclusion. This is a black hat situation?

[Naghirniac]

I need backlinks for my site, and several places inform that directories are a good place. But they charge for the inclusion. Should I pay? This is a blackhat situation where I'm buying for links?

[Cyrus-Shepard]

H Naghimiac,

Many directories charge, but this doesn't mean they are black hat. The key concept is editorial inclusion. A directory that accepts anyone is not a directory you want to be associated with. This includes directories filled with porn, gambling and payday loan sites.

On the other hand, the harder it is to get into a directory, the more value it usually passes. This is true even when the directory charges money for "review" services.

Be careful - directory listings are meant to enhance your backlink profile, not act as a foundation.

Here's a helpful article:

http://www.seomoz.org/blog/seo-link-directory-best-practices

Best of luck!

[Naghirniac]

Good... im afraid to be at the dark side...in gray side i can accept...thanks

[ClickConsult]

Hi Naghirniac,

When you pay for a directory listing, you're paying for the review not the actual link. That being said, unless the directory is quality, don't go for it - money can be better spent elsewhere.

Good luck!

[Revolution_Inc]

In an ideal world you wouldn't have to seek directories, however we aren't there quite yet and so they will give you a small boost in the meantime (whilst you are trying to build up other links).

I noticed that they were payable when I looked at them, I think from the point of view at SEOMoz, they are saying 'if you are going to use directories, these are the best'. Obviously the people that run them know that and thats why they can charge.

It would all depend on what you can afford. If $150 for a small, but likely, boost seems worthwhile to you then go for it.It's something that depends on the business you are working for and the situation (are links the thing what are letting you down)

It's more grey than black, there are much worse tactics you could employ towards link building.