DMOZ, or the Open Directory Project, is, as you probably know, a not-for-profit directory, renowned for having very high inclusion standards for sites. Being included comes with some benefits, SEO-wise, and although these are not as big as they once were, a link from DMOZ is still a very valuable link. Becoming an editor of a category gives you the power to moderate what links go in that category. You could use this to add your own site, or if you're a devious person to get rid of your competitor (if you're subtle about it!)
However, becoming an editor is renowned for being harder than getting water from a stone - yet, I achieved this, and I shall let you know how!
- Start Small - when you apply as an editor, pick one of the smaller sub-categories. Don't apply for "Computer:Internet", apply for "Computers:Internet:Web Design & Development:Chats & Forums." As I've said, DMOZ editorship comes with a certain degree of power, and they're unwilling to let a newbie wield too much of it. Once you're an editor you can work your way up to bigger categories.
- Read Their Advice - Make sure you follow their own guidelines for application. If you can't do that they'll never accept you.
- Pick Great Example Sites - When you apply, you have to choose 3 sites you think are worthy of inclusion into your chosen category. Make sure these are truly wonderful sites! They demonstrate your knowledge of the category, and show what sort of sites you're likely to add. To get an idea of what they like, see what's already in the category.
- Be Honest - If you think your site is good enough to warrant a listing, be honest about it! When answering why you want to be an editor, answer along the lines of "I love DMOZ blah blah blah, recognise its importance for a site blah blah blah, feel my site is worthy and would love to add it blah blah blah, but also want to contribute to a succesful and worthy cause blah blah blah." Don't be afraid to sound soppy - just don't take it too far!
- You Love Community - Well, DMOZ editors love community, therefore if you're applying, you have to as well. DMOZ editor forums are extremely active, and as an editor you're expected to partake. So when you talk about your internet experience, make sure you throw in a mention of how much you love to be part of a community. Of course, you're also a big team player!
- Be Literate - They're sticklers for grammar and spelling, so make damn sure there aren't any mistakes in your application!
Hopefully if you follow that advice you'll get that application accepted. By the way the category I edited was
Time Wasting Pages although since I was inactive for 3 months I was removed as an editor! (Never saw the point of editing beyond getting my own site in!!) Anyone else been/is an editor? What's your advice for acceptance?
Want to be a DMOZ Editor?
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