1. Create a Unique Directory: A unique directory differentiates your directory from the competition. The company shared directories get fewer business listings than if you had created a custom directory that focused on a specific niche. Do not make the category of search engines or search engines categorizing your online business directory as a duplicate content.

2. Spread the Word: Exchange links with Dofollow directories. Also, post comments on discussion forums and business blogs with top software & services for businesses. You can surely use a forum signature of your directory that includes the URL on blogs and forums where you participate. Ask questions and answer questions on sites like Yahoo.

3. Social bookmarking books: You can increase website traffic to your online directory by using social bookmarking sites. Small site widgets can also be placed on your site so visitors can share your content with others. 

Become a social network too. Use Facebook, Linkedin, Twitter, and Instagram to promote your directory. The more friends and followers you have, the more likely you are to get people to post to your business directory.

4. Writing news: Use the technology of Rich Site Summary. Offer visitors to your directory an RSS subscription. Provide a newsletter for those who subscribe to your newsfeed. Use this feed to post new content to your directory regularly.

The key to increasing traffic on your online business directory lies in implementing a strategy that will make your directory attractive and make your name known in the online business world.