ArcticMan - 12:51 am on Apr 7, 2003 (gmt 0)

Great forum - first timer - a reciprocal link partner suggested your site and I've gleaned some good info.

I recently undertook the arduous task of cleaning up my links page. Now there is a descriptive theme for visitors, a micro category directory, alphabetized listings, and a link exchange policy. It's simple, banner free, easy to navigate, and everybody is treated equally. I have about 80 targeted links within my market niche.

I have a couple questions for anybody that can help:

I have decided to use category directories, as opposed to windy site descriptions. This takes less space, less time to upgrade, and is easier to navigate for my visitors.

1) Is it okay to do away with link site descriptions (in lieu of category directories), which tend to be similiar - i.e. "the best site on the web for...", or does a page full of links with a relatively low free flow text ratio hurt me in the eyes of search engines? Or does it make an iota of difference?

2) I've noticed that often my link does not show up in the SE's as being linked to another site - even though I know it's there. On the other hand whenever I've analyzed a competitor's site - my link has always shown up for them. Why does my link not show when I do a deep analysis "sites that link to your site" search (about 30% of them)?

Thanks for any insights.

Kurt