How to Build
a Standout
Directory Profile
Your directory listing isn’t just a digital business card: it’s your chance to tell your story, connect with new audiences, and stand out in a sea of sameness.
At Where in Vietnam, we believe that every great business has a personality. Whether you’re a cozy wine bar, an eco-minded tour operator, or a chic design freelancer, your profile should reflect what makes you you, and why people should care.
Your Goal
Create a spark with potential customers by instantly helping them see and understand what you’re about.
What You’ll Learn
This quick tutorial will walk you through how to craft a profile that’s:
- Engaging (readers will feel your vibe)
- Clear (people know exactly what you offer)
- Searchable (optimized for discovery)
- Persuasive (drives real interest and bookings)
- English (this is the main language of our website)
What to Include in Your Listing?
Create a spark with potential customers by instantly helping them see and understand what you’re about.
01. Brand Personality:
Write as if you’re talking to your dream customer. Be vivid, warm, and clear about what makes you different.
02. Imagery with Words:
Evoke atmosphere: your space, your vibe, your people.
03. Headline Hooks:
A tagline or leading sentence can draw readers in right away.
04. Highlight What You Do Best:
Share your hero products/services and what people rave about (or what you want them to rave about!).
05. Social Proof or Vibe Check:
Use your tone and phrasing to reflect the experience, not just the facts.
06. Links that work:
We can get them to you, but you need to convert them. Make sure the links you bring them too either bring you to your sales person or a booking link. Don’t make them do any more work to make a sale
What Makes Great Imagery for Your Directory Profile?
Your visuals are just as important as your words. They don’t just show what you do — they set the tone, spark curiosity, and create a mood. Strong imagery can help your listing feel polished, professional, and instantly engaging. Here’s what to think about when choosing what to include:
1. Lead with Atmosphere, Not Just Products
- Choose 1 hero horizontal image – this will be the cover for your profile. It will get cropped so make sure it doesnt have key information that goes to the edges.
- Choose 1–3 hero images (mix of horizontal and vertical) that capture the vibe of your space or service.
- Think: a cozy, candlelit table at your restaurant, guests trekking through misty rice fields, or a creative workspace in action.
- Don’t just show what you sell, show how it feels to be there or work with you.
2. Curate, Don’t Overwhelm
- Select horizontal 4–6 high-quality images total: no need to flood your profile. These will feature in a carousel.
- Prioritize clarity, consistency, and visual storytelling. If they look good together in a grid, you’re on the right track.
- Remember! Your images are often the first impression you make. They should capture your vibe, communicate quality, and give people a real sense of what it’s like to engage with your business. Below are specific photo suggestions and creative tips based on category.
3. Category-Based Visual Suggestions
Depending on your category, here’s what to consider:
For F&B businesses
- Food and drinks in natural light (no flash!) Interior ambiance: seating, lighting, vibe
- Staff in action or guests enjoying themselves
- A designed menu or branded packaging for context
For Travel businesses
- Candid guest experiences (not just posed shots)
- Landscapes and immersive moments (trekking, cooking, cultural activities)
- Unique accommodation or transport visuals
- A sample itinerary design or branded travel material (if applicable)
For Professional Services
- Studio/office environment or you in action
- Close-up of the process (hands, tools, design boards, etc.)
- A photo of you/your team – human connection matters!
- Screenshots or mockups of your portfolio, proposals, or results
For Shopping & Retail Brands
- Wide shot of your store’s interior or a striking display Product highlights: 2–3 items beautifully styled or in-use
- Behind-the-scenes moment (packing, sourcing, styling)
- Customers browsing or interacting with your space
- If applicable, your packaging, brand tags, or designed labels
For Wellness, Spa & Beauty
- Your treatment space: calming interiors, ambient lighting
- Action shots: therapist hands, yoga practice, tea ritual
- Product shelves or natural ingredients (if applicable)
- Branded materials (your menu, uniform, logo signage)
For Arts, Culture & Creative Spaces
- The space alive with people: events, open studios, installations
- Artwork or craft pieces close-up and in context
- The artist(s) at work or mid-process
- Tools, instruments, or textures that represent your medium.
4. File Format & Quality
- Use JPG or PNG files under 2MB each
- Minimum 1000px on the long edge
- Avoid watermarks, blurry screenshots, or overly edited images
5. Quick Visual Checklist
Don’t be afraid to show:
- Behind-the-scenes moments — prep, process, personality
- Happy clients or customers — especially in action
- Branded elements — signage, business cards, packaging
Quick Visual Checklist
Showcase your space or atmosphere
Highlight people or interaction when possible
Feature branded assets (menus, logos, signs, packaging)
Focus on textures, light, and color to bring your vibe to life
Select images that feel aligned in tone and mood
Best Practices
Want some inspiration? We’ve created a few examples to help you visualize what a great listing can look like.
