Come do a little conference networking and have a good time.

Besides friends & free booze (wait, we need more?)… there will be raffles. As usual, proceeds go to charity, so the fun is for a good cause.

Prizes include:

• SMX West All Access Pass (or SMX East 2010) ($1395)
• SMX Advanced All Access Pass ($1395)
• 5 Search Engine Land Premium Memberships ($149)
• 2 SES New York Conference Pass ($1395)
• SEOmoz Advanced SEO Training DVD ($499)
• SEOmoz 1 year PRO membership ($799)

Tickets are $50 (again, all goes to charity since Best of The Web and Clix Marketing are picking up the bill). Proceeds will go to fight Blood Cancer and Multiple Myeloma, and the receipt for the ticket will keep your accountant happy at tax time.

Tickets are available at: http://www.imcharityparty.com/ .

Of course if you can’t make it, you can still help by purchasing raffle tickets, but it’ll be more fun with you there. Hope you can make it.

If ya can’t laugh at yourself…
As the directory there grew it managed to become a target of a lot of folks. Some of the criticism was valid, some not, but inside it was common practice of some of us to sorta make fun of ourselves based on the stereotypes. Sure, some of the stereotypes were spot on… but as is the case in many instances, a lot were just imagined. Either way, you can argue or you can laugh, and laughing is much better for the blood pressure.

BOTW Volunteers
We have a volunteer program at BOTW too, in our Blog Directory. Obviously not of the same scope as theirs, but then we have a core group of OCD types on staff here that edit like a few thousand volunteers each, which negates the need to rely heavily on our volunteers.

We keep the program available because it offers folks that’d like to add sites at their leisure in an area of their interest. Since we rely on the paid staff for the bulk of our input, the volunteers arent under pressure to produce. They are like guys collecting butterflies… they add the ones they like to the collection when they run across them.

Maintaining the Integrity of the Program
Having heard for a decade that the Dmoz volunteers only join to add their own sites (ok, that’s occasionally true, but more often not)… the policy we’ve adopted with our volunteers is pretty simple. If someone gets a volunteer login and vanishes after a couple of adds… those are removed. Our program will not be subject to criticism for that particular reason… better to have a few that enjoy it than many that abuse it.

How Does the BOTW Blog Vol Program Work?
Basically adding blog sites is pretty simple… you pick an area of interest, you add sites that fit the criteria. If you have a site in that field, start with the other related blogs in your own blog roll. Look at related sites on THEIR blog roll. Piece of cake.

Can we add our own?
Sure. Long as you aren’t here just for that purpose, no problem. Consider it a bonus for helping. Just be aware that if we do Quality Control checks and find someone added the same site 4 times in the same category, we execute the adds, their login, and if they’re nearby… the editor. [Dang, talk about "tough love".]

Honestly, there isn’t generally a problem when we get volunteers, and as we did in my early days at Dmoz… we have a pretty good time in here. Much to be said just for the social interaction with some of the folks here, and if you enjoy what you’re doing it really isn’t “work”. [Don't tell Greg or Rob I enjoy this, they still think I'm laboring away at this job.]

Bottom line, if assisting as a BOTW Blog Volunteer appeals to you, we’re always happy to look at new folks. Just fill out the app correctly and you’ve got a fair shot at getting in. Let me know if you have any questions.

Regards ~

Rob Jones
Proud Member of The Nerd Herd
Best of the Web

UNCLE BOTW WANTS *YOU*
In the past BOTW began a program for volunteers to edit in the blog directory… basically like Dmoz, Wickipedia, JoeAnt, et al… a cool way for the OCD among us to bring order to chaos and categorize a little corner of the web. This program had gone dormant of late, so we’ve learned from the experience, built ‘em a new fora, and started fresh.

Before working for BOTW, I volunteered at Dmoz for 8 1/2 years. I’m not new to the concept, nor suggesting anyone do anything I havent done. Executed correctly it’s pretty fun and very educational, and not a bad form of networking either.

GROUND FLOOR OPPORTUNITY
This effectively puts those we approve now in a charter member spot… not dissimilar to being one of the first eds at Dmoz or Wickipedia. This is a good opportunity, especially for those that’d like to see how a top-notch directory functions. We will of course be happy to see those that contributed before as well as new applicants.

FTR – It probably doesn’t look bad on a resume either. Most of us in this industry waste a lot of time on the web, being seen giving back in a visible volunteer capacity isnt a bad thing.

CAN WE ADD OUR OWN SITES?
Needless to say such volunteer programs have some fringe benefits in that they also allow those participating to include their own qualified sites. If you have sites that qualify, if you don’t add them it’s your fault, not ours. We just ask that you add other quality sites as well and treat ALL sites fairly.

Don’t join JUST to add your own of course, it is totally unnecessary. We already have a free review queue, and even the express queue isn’t expensive enough to warrant a ruse for a serious webmaster… so it’d be a waste of your time and mine.

REQUIRED CAVEAT RE: Abuse of Login
Important Safety Tip: If someone appears to be present ONLY to add their own sites, or tries to become their own discount “paid review queue”… their login will be summarily executed, and the big UNDO button comes into play. This is an opportunity meant for “the good guys”.

One Other Potential Benefit
Prior to this we’ve mostly relied on folks we knew from other directories when filling holes in the contract editor (ie – paid editor) ranks for BOTW’s Main directory. I had a great opportunity when I got involved with BOTW, and I shared it by bringing over a sampling of the best and brightest web editors I knew.

My hope is to build this volunteer program in the BLOG Directory and grow our own… then we can as opportunities arise plug holes in the paid ed ranks with the stars we find. The ideal applicant has some experience with directory structure, a passion for blogs, and is an active forum participant. Forum participation helps immensely and is the heart of such a program. Like to get some good folks to help grow the community.

TO BECOME A BOTW VOLUNTEER BLOG EDITOR
Go to the BOTW Blog Directory, click on a category of interest, then hit the “Become a BOTW editor” button. The app process is pretty simple, takes a few minutes.

Note that BOTW is an English only directory. Not a slight, we just don’t have staff versed in a lot of other languages. As such, a mastery of the English language is required (even if you can’t always tell I fit that criteria either).

When I get an opportunity, my first thought is to share it with friends. Hope to have some of you aboard.

~ Rob Jones

BRAD BANNER
There’s been a little talk among directory insiders about those that “sold out” to get a paycheck for editing on the BOTW directory. As we watch 24/7 coverage of the effects of hurricane Gustav, it seems appropriate to point out the example set by one of the members that apparently fit that description.

One individual we’ve been glad to welcome to our crew is Brad Banner. Brad is a former Dmoz Admin… and currently one of the guys we heavily rely upon for the wealth of knowledge he brings to the table. I had the opportunity to “meet” Brad almost a decade ago when we were both relative newbies editing a directory back in ’99. In subsequent years the privilege of meeting him personally came up a few times, and it was my privilege to take advantage of all of ‘em.

Brad is one of those people that was frequently responsible for building things but seldom took credit for it. Fortunately for all, his contributions were rightfully recognized by those in higher circles, and he was rewarded with increasing levels of responsibility. That was probably more fortunate for us than for him. He had more important things to deal with… not the least his own veterinary practice AND the issues of being a single dad. Still we were always happy to have his easygoing but knowledgeable input.

But Frankly He’s Been Shirking Lately…(?!)
Lately his input at BOTW has been limited, as he has been busy elsewhere. Notably he’s been working on and martialing input for the Gustav Wiki. That site helps match those in need due to the current crisis with those who can help.

Heroes for Loan: Inquire Here
There just isn’t enough to say about guys that drop everything that makes them money to volunteer on behalf of those in need. He doesn’t consider himself a hero… but if you don’t already have one of your own… let me recommend one of mine.

Thanks for all you do Brad. Your work here is appreciated… and we’re glad to share you with the rest of the world as needed. Thanks.

Regards ~ Robjones

Why BOTW Directory?
Before I came here, as a longtime web editor and voracious reader of SEO forums (yeah, somebody’s missing a great opportunity for a good 12 step program) I’d seen countless “Top Directories” lists. There are many many directories, but a select few always stand out, whether due to vast databases or for successfully representing a specialized niche. What constantly put BOTW on those favorites lists?

Answer 1: A Commitment to Quality
“Talk” about quality is a standard feature for virtually every organization. If it isn’t backed by tangible investment, it’s just chatter. In the case of BOTW the investment is not only real, it follows an unusual pattern. As the income increased the honchos didn’t treat it as a cash cow and just bank the profits… they’ve systematically reinvested to make BOTW a better resource.

Of course a standard complaint about pay-for-review directories is that they may be weak in areas where there are minimal paid submissions. Portions of the web will always include sites that are labors of love, not for-profit ventures. Those seldom pull out a Visa card and submit, they’ll only be in if somebody seeks them out. In order to have a broad range of offerings, BOTW has long used paid editors to flesh out these areas.

The recent addition of The Nerd Herd was a sign of this continued commitment. We don’t handle the paid sites, we build around them to make sure paid inclusions are in good enough company to show up on the radar. The Herd wasn’t a cheap investment… they’re well paid (especially given most of us learned this role as volunteers), but frankly they’re paid well because they are hand selected, a team of experienced folks who are very good at what they do.

Answer 2: A Commitment to Both Users and Site Owners
To most directory owners it would seem an insanely high monthly overhead to tack on. After all, BOTW already has a good rep, why bother? Reason: A commitment to the directory’s various constituencies… including both end users and webmasters that depend on BOTW to help get their site in front of folks.

Method “A” : Adds / Taxonomy / Nav Aids
Since their arrival The Herd (which has quadrupled in number and is still growing) has actively worked to not only add sites… but to improve taxonomy and descriptions and provide additional contextual navigation. The point is to find good sites and to make them more findable.

Method “B” : DESCRIPTIONS
If a site is worthy of inclusion, it is worthy of a description that enables it to be found by search engines, not just via an on-site “drill-down”. That doesn’t mean it should be keyword stuffed… in the long run that does more harm than good, but it should be properly keyworded so it can be found. The value of a listing in any directory is diminished in value if the site doesn’t have a reasonable description. Adding without truly describing is a waste of effort.

But We’re a Directory, Not a Search Engine ( ? ! )
I got into directories in ’99. At the time the phrase “We’re a directory not a search engine” was common, and might have actually meant something before SEs were as reliable as they are today. Well, people still use both methods to search, but this isn’t 1999. Directories serve a dual role, and a very important role IF we do our job well. In the real world, search engines are an important vehicle, not an afterthought, and definitely not an adversary.

Moving Forward with Best of the Web
Today BOTW is a constantly improving information resource for both on-site users and for those using the search engines that farm it. The recently announced Blog Directory is another recent example of BOTWs continued commitment to providing new resources. Though BOTW is rapidly becoming the fastest growing directory on the web… whether it will become the largest is not our focus.

As the name implies… the point is to be “the best”.

Regards ~

Rob Jones
Proud Member of “The Nerd Herd”

NEXT WEEK:
A Rising Tide Floats All Boats… Why the directory biz is NOT a zero-sum game

About a week ago we announced the newest addition to the BOTW executive team. We are psyched to get Adam on board, and we’re confident that he’ll help us bring BOTW to the next level.

With more than a handful of projects running simultaneously, there are a lot of business opportunities that don’t get the attention they deserve. For months now we’ve had multiple business development deals that are somewhere along the sales cycle, but to date have not yielded much fruit.

The addition of Adam to the BOTW team will enable us to maintain focus on operating and growing our core business without having to neglect the numerous business development opportunities that we pursue. Moreover, his entrepreneurial values and keen knowledge of the search industry will prove instrumental in the successful development and launch of future BOTW projects.

Adam is well recognized in the search industry as a forward thinker with great networking skills and a passion for sales. We’re certain that BOTW will be a stronger company for his joining, and we look forward to a long and prosperous working relationship.

We ran an ad a handful of months ago seeking a qualified editor. After finding our man, we formulated a plan to put together an editorial Dream Team. While there is still room for additional talent, the current Nerd Herd is in a league of their own. The few dozen editors that currently comprise the crew include pioneers in the web directory industry, with years of experience editing at directories such as Zeal and DMOZ.

Consistent with our mission, the crew will focus on beefing up both the web directory and blog directory with additional high quality resources. Additionally, their experience uniquely enables them to help shape the taxonomy of the directories in a manner that is intuitive and helpful to users. They will contribute on future projects, and their insight will enhance our efficiencies.

They’re a pretty impressive group of people to work with, and we’re glad to have ‘em on board. We look forward to an exciting future!

Interested parties should contact robjones[at]botw[dot]org to learn about joining the team.

Since 1994 BOTW.org has served as a destination spotlighting the best of what the web has to offer. Initially pioneering the web awards program, BOTW has transformed into a comprehensive directory, providing users with valuable resources for an expansive range of topics.

Currently, we need the assistance of an experienced editor to help oversee the work of lower level editors and contribute to the usefulness of the site by improving taxonomy and architecture.

This telecommuting position requires a self-motivated individual with years of experience. Successful candidates will have directory editing experience at Yahoo, DMOZ, MSN (or similar) or will have previously worked for a library (we love librarians!).

Please send a resume with all relevant experience and a letter explaining why you would be a great addition to the Best of the Web team.

Part-time or Full-time OK.

In keeping with this tradition, we are pleased to welcome Roger Montti as the newest member of the BOTW executive team. Roger has spent the better part of the last decade solidifying his spot as one of the top professionals in the search industry. Many readers may know Roger through his blog, Martinibuster, or through his work as a moderator at Webmasterworld. If you have been fortunate to hear Roger speak at a conference, or spend time with him talking shop, you have no doubt left the encounter wiser.

Roger will be acting as BOTW VP of Verticals. Our newest offering, BOTW Verticals (beta) will serve as an online resource for users to find information on various business solutions. Vendors will be able to interact with users, resulting in highly qualified leads. Roger’s experience in the search industry and lead generation should help to propel the initiative to a successful launch.

We are very happy to have Roger aboard, and welcome him to the Best of the Web team.

We unofficially launched the volunteer program about 10 days ago, and have since received more than a few applications. Now that some of the bugs have been worked out, we felt we would officially announce the volunteer editor program. (Not to suggest all the bugs have been taken care of.)

So what is it, and why should you care?

The goal of the BOTW Blog Directory is to build the most comprehensive collection of quality blogs online – a colossal undertaking. Much like the BOTW Web Directory, each listing in the Blog Directory must meet a set of minimum listing criteria. In a nutshell, all listings must contain unique content, and be relevant to the category in which they are listed. By holding ourselves to a high level of listing criteria, we are able to consistently provide our users with timely, relevant results from the blogosphere.

Blog Directory Editors should be experts in their respective field of editing. We are looking for people who are active bloggers, proficient in their area of interest. Ideally, you’ll have some experience editing at other directories (DMOZ editors welcome!), be an active member of other online communities, and generally feel very comfortable online.

Please don’t see this as an opportunity to stuff your blogs into the directory. First of all, you don’t have to become an editor to get your blog listed. Just submit it. It’s free, so you don’t need to feel compelled to put on some big charade to get your blog listed. Secondly, editors don’t get special priviliges to stick any blog they want in. Every blog enetered has to meet the minimum site criteria, regardless of the owner. Any editor that abuses the responsibility will be dismissed.

Of course, you are allowed to put your own blog in – provided it meets the guidelines and is relevant to the category. You can put all your friend’s blogs in too. And every other blog you find that fits the bill. That’s what we are looking for. Once again though, any editor that abuses the responsibility will be dismissed. We refuse to compromise on the quality and integrity of the directory.

So why should you care? Well, you have the opportunity to get in early on what promises to be a fantastic project. You’ll be able to work with some pretty cool people building a valuable resource. If that’s not enough, editors are given an Editor Page on the BOTW domain where you are free to list personal details or other projects you are involved in. Additionally, you’ll be able to add it to your work experience, and impress all your friends and coworkers

Though the editor forums are a little thin, and the editor wiki still needs some attention, we are off and running. As it goes with any new project, I don’t know how this will ultimately pan out. But you are invited to come along for the ride.

Find out more about becoming a Blog Directory Volunteer Editor.