Boosting site visibility through directories, is it worth it?

Hi all,

I’m trying to get my head around using online directories to improve my website’s SEO and was wondering if anyone here has experience with them? Some directories I’ve come across let you submit your site under quite broad categories like marketing, tech, health, and so on. For example, I stumbled on https://gritt.io/, which seems to gather different kinds of websites under one platform. It looks like a decent way to get a bit more exposure. That said, I’m a bit sceptical about the actual benefits. Do these directory listings really help with quality backlinks and bring any meaningful traffic? Or is it just a waste of time and potentially a risk with Google? Also curious if anyone here uses directories alongside engaging in forums like this one to build a proper network around their site? Would love to hear any tips on how to pick the right places to list your site without it feeling spammy.

Cheers in advance!