Directory listings show your competitors too:

I know lots of people that use directory services to list their business and they all tell me the same thing. Here's the scenario:

Jo Bloggs owns a widget factory. He pays £7 per month for a 1 inch advert in his local directory. That sounds a good deal doesnt it?

Sam Smith needs a widget so he looks through the directory and finds Jo Bloggs Widgets limited. Along with Bill Baines Widgets and Zak Zebras widget Co. He looks at the biggest adverts first because they catch his eye first. Great for him... he can also see about 30 other widget makers in his area so he can shop around and get the best deal.

Joe bloggs has helped his potential costumer find all of his actual competitors. Where is the business sense in that?. Joe Bloggs saw the light and now has is own website... now his customers come from all over the world and his advertising costs less than £1 week. Plus, he can change his products and services instantly rather than yearly!

It makes no sense to advertise your competitors!. Use your own web site. Your customers will respect you for it, and so will your bank manager.