Are reputable local directories effective link building resources for high rankings in local search?

[GuyFromHouston]

I'm working on a local search campaign. Generally, the first thing I do is add the site to all of the local directories that I know of. I'm curious, with penguin updates, whether or not this is still an effective strategy for local search.

[Andy.Drinkwater]

I have never had a bad response with a local directory yet and is something I do for clients looking to enhance a local profile. As for what you get in terms of SEO benefit, a lot will depend on the directory and the type of listing you get with it.

Local directories I have never found harmful as long as you choose the best of those that are available to you.

However, I never stop just at local so it is hard to say just what you will get exactly.

Andy

[GuyFromHouston]

Andy, Thank you for the response. I'm using suggested local directories on the SEOMOZ Pro Directory list. I'm guessing that all of those are trusted sites. I am still curious as to whether or not the directories actual help or boost rankings though.