Creating content for my directory

[Andrew Thomas]

Im creating a directory for businesses (a county in the UK) I need to get visitors to my site so they can submit their business (paid + free listings)

However i need to create good content on businesses, industries, towns etc... to get my ranking in the Search engines.

Do i have to create this myself, are their people out there who will write it for me, if so where are they? and is it expensive? Any other ideas welcome!

Ive looked at 2 other websites in the same county who rank high (have done for 2 years), and they both use very similiar content!

Should i use similiar content or try and create something unique?

[foxtunes]

You could use your uk local yellow pages phone book as a resource to find local companies.

[rogerd]

Clearly, if you have the ability to create something unique that will help you in the long run. In the short run, you should try to identify content and listings that you can legally use for a starting point.

Always try to put your own polishing touches on the site, though - a little extra sparkle will help you get those paid listings that will support you in the long run.