chandrilQ: Monetization routes
For a new directory, it might be difficult to convince people to pay a monthly fee to be on the platform when the traffic is too low. And when there are too few experts on the list, it's challenging to get much traffic. It's a chicken-and-egg problem. I wonder if you allow a commission-based model to monetise. I mean, I want to tell the experts that you don't have to pay me money upfront. You pay me per lead or only when clients contact you/click on your profile/click on "show contact number", or click on the " pay now button. Is that possible?
I want to build a doctor directory. So, the second question is, is it possible for patients to directly pay the doctor on the platform (so that I can keep track of how much each doctor is making and charge my commission from them accordingly). Is that possible?
Jason_BrilliantDirectories
Jan 3, 2026A: Thanks for the thoughtful question — this is a very real challenge, and you’re thinking about it the right way.
You’re absolutely right about the chicken-and-egg problem, and this is something many successful directory owners plan for upfront.
On commission-based monetization:
Brilliant Directories is strongest at membership-based and lead-generation models, rather than acting as a full transaction/commission marketplace. Out of the box, you can:
• Track leads, profile views, clicks, and contact requests
• Charge members for featured placement, visibility, or access
• Use pay-per-post, upgrades, or paid actions as monetization levers
However, BD does not natively process payments between patients and doctors and then auto-calculate commissions like a marketplace platform would. Most directory owners who want a commission-style model either:
• Charge doctors for leads or exposure (monthly, yearly, or per action), or
• Let doctors handle payments directly and use BD for lead tracking and reporting
This keeps things simpler, especially in regulated industries like healthcare.
For early-stage traction:
You’re spot on that traffic alone isn’t everything early on. What really helps new directories feel credible is:
• A clear mission and niche positioning
• Listings that make the site feel established from day one (this is where Instant Business Records are often used)
• Showcasing activity, growth, and engagement signals
This tutorial is especially helpful for new directories:
25+ Stats You Can Showcase To Boost Your Website Credibility
https://www.brilliantdirectories.com/blog/showcase-these-25-stats-to-boost-your-websites-credibility
Many directory owners also spread risk by launching multiple focused directories using the same model, rather than relying on a single site to take off.
In short: BD gives you strong tools for lead generation, memberships, visibility-based monetization, and growth, which is exactly how most successful doctor directories start — without overcomplicating payments and commissions too early.