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Updated On: August 5, 2024
Backlinks. They're essential. Why? Because they can propel your website's ranking to new heights.
Let's break it down. People on Reddit suggest starting by figuring out if you actually need backlinks. Use tools like Ahrefs to compare domains and see why your competitors are winning.
Here’s the deal. According to the same ol’ Ahrefs, Google has stated that backlinks are among its top three ranking factors. Additionally, more backlinks generally mean better search traffic and higher ranking positions.
Check these few fascinating link-building stats from our State of Link Building 2024 report:
So, why do people link? And how can you persuade them?
Understanding this is the first step to success.
In this guide, you’ll learn effective strategies and tips to get backlinks.
Whether you’re new to link building or a seasoned pro, these tips will help you enhance your SEO efforts.
Ready to master backlinks? Let's roll!
So when another website links back to yours, that's a backlink. It’s a signal to search engines that your content is valuable.
Now, 58.4% of SEO experts believe backlinks have a high impact on rankings. That's a strong endorsement from the pros!
Some folks on Reddit argue that internal linking and quality content come first.
They’re not wrong. Quality content and internal linking are crucial. But here's the catch—backlinks still play a key role.
Think of it like this: Easier keywords might get you to the first page with good content alone. But as keyword difficulty rises, you need a strong content structure and solid backlinks.
Backlinks are votes of confidence. They show search engines that your content is trustworthy and authoritative.
More quality backlinks mean higher rankings and more visibility.
Remember, sites with the most backlinks usually top the search results. So, even though some prioritize content and internal links first, backlinks are still essential.
Want to learn how to get valuable backlinks?
Stick around.
The strategies are coming up next.
You can earn backlinks when others naturally link to your content—this is the ideal scenario. Some websites allow you to add links manually, like posting on forums. You can also ask by reaching out to site owners and requesting a link. Lastly, there’s the option to buy links, either directly from website owners or through third parties, though this is a risky way.
Earning backlinks is the gold standard. Why? Because they come naturally and are highly valued by search engines.
Imagine creating content so compelling that others can't help but link to it. That’s what earning backlinks is all about.
One effective strategy is to create linkable assets. These are resources so valuable that others want to share them. Think data-driven reports, in-depth guides, or unique tools.
That’s a lot of link juice if you ask me!
Creating high-quality pages that naturally attract backlinks involves a few key steps:
Create something of high value, and the links will follow! For more tips on earning backlinks, check out my detailed guide on link earning.
Ever heard of a backlink exchange?
It's a common practice in SEO.
According to our survey, link exchange one of the most effective link building tactic.
Here’s how it works: Site A links to Site B, and in return, Site B links back to Site A. Yup. Can’t get any easier. This strategy boosts visibility and search engine rankings for both sites.
It’s all about collaboration. A straightforward exchange can work wonders, but it can get more complex. Sometimes, three or even four sites are involved, creating a web of interconnected links.
The key is to offer value in return for a link.
However, just asking for a backlink isn’t enough. You need to make it worthwhile for the other party:
Offering a guest post is a great example. You provide valuable content, and in exchange, you get a link. Fair trade. But remember, quality is crucial.
You can't just slap together a quick article and expect results. High-quality content is essential for successful exchanges.
If you want to see this in action, check out the Skyscraper technique. Create the best content on a topic and reach out to relevant sites for a link. It’s a bit of a hustle, but it can pay off!
A word of caution: overdoing link exchanges can lead to penalties from Google. Keep it balanced and genuine.
Take a look at this guide on backlink exchange for a deeper dive into the topic.
If you’re thinking about buying backlinks, think twice.
Honestly, this isn’t the best route to take.
Fact is, quality sites don’t sell links. For a deeper dive, check out my article on buying backlinks.
Why you should be cautious? Many sites that sold links are now defunct. Below are just a few examples:
Buying backlinks is always risky, and spam emails offering “high-DR backlinks” are red flags. So steer clear of those.
The safest backlinks to buy are from sites that don’t usually sell them.
For instance, sponsoring an event and getting listed as a sponsor on their website can result in a legitimate backlink.
🚨 Plus, as stated in our report, more than 90% of respondents believe that competitors buy links.
But beware.
Buying backlinks can quickly lead to penalties.
If you must buy links, hire agencies or freelancers to build them for you. They can use methods like guest posting and the Skyscraper technique without risking your site’s safety. Make sure to vet them by checking their previous work and client feedback.
Remember, earning backlinks naturally is always the best strategy.
Professionals can help you create content that attracts links organically, which is worth the investment.
If you’re not planning a career in SEO, consider outsourcing link building to experts. It’s safer and can be much more effective.
Hiring a link building agency might be your best bet. They’ll do the heavy lifting and get you the results you need.
Hiring an agency has its pros and cons.
Pros:
Cons:
Despite the cost, hiring an agency can be worth it. You get access to a team of experts who can deliver top-notch results without the headaches.
Not all agencies deliver the same quality. It’s crucial to choose a reputable one that prioritizes quality, communication, and transparency. They’ll keep you updated and tailor their strategy to your needs.
For the best results, consider Editorial.Link. We focus on ethical practices and personalized strategies to boost your SEO without stress.
Broken links are links on a website that no longer work. They might lead to a 404 error, have an incorrect URL, or point to a moved or closed website. This is your opportunity.
Finding broken links is a classic SEO strategy that still works wonders.
Here’s how you can use it to get valuable backlinks:
In Ahrefs, enter the website URL in Site Explorer and select “Broken backlinks” in the Backlink profile sub-menu, under the Backlinks options. This will show all the broken links for that site.
Once you have your list, it’s time to reach out.
Contact the webmaster and report the broken link. Be polite and introduce yourself. Point out the exact location of the broken link and kindly suggest your site as a replacement.
This method isn’t just about getting a backlink; it's about offering value.
You help the site owner fix a broken link and improve their user experience, and in return, you get a backlink and enhance your profile.
Connecting with journalists and influencers is a smart move, so let’s see how blogger outreach and HARO link building can work out for you.
Blogger outreach is about getting the right people to talk about your content. No more sending generic emails to everyone.
Focus on quality.
The “sniper approach,” meaning precisely targeting key prospects, is your best bet:
For example, if someone’s written about a topic similar to yours, reach out. Explain why your content offers fresh insights or valuable updates.
HARO is a goldmine for earning backlinks.
It connects journalists with experts like you. Here’s how you can leverage it:
Imagine this: A journalist needs tips on making a home look elegant. You provide a useful quote, and they feature you in their article with a backlink to your site.
These methods can help you secure high-quality, authoritative backlinks. Journalists and bloggers have significant reach, and their endorsement can boost your site’s credibility.
Ever wonder where your competitors get their backlinks?
You have all the chances to uncover those hidden gems. All you have to do is find those sites that link to your competitors but not to you and then get those links for yourself.
Here’s how to do it.
If your competitor has a guest post on a high-authority site, pitch your own guest post to the same site. If they have links from forums, join those forums and contribute valuable content with your links.
As for Ahrefs, to find your competitors' backlinks, follow these detailed steps:
Backlink Checker:
Subscribe to Ahrefs for full access.
Site Explorer:
Backlinks Report:
To refine the list of backlinks in Ahrefs, use these specific filters:
Organic Competitors:
Analyzing your competitors' backlinks helps you find proven link sources. If a site links to multiple competitors, it’s likely they’ll link to you too.
For a deeper dive into this strategy, check out my detailed guide on competitor backlinks.
All in all, getting backlinks for your website is pretty easy. At least now you have a solid understanding of various strategies to do that.
Each method in this post, from earning and adding links to buying and finding broken links, offers unique benefits and challenges. So try them all!
Building legitimate backlinks isn't easy, and that's the point. Many look for shortcuts, but these can lead to penalties. Instead, focus on creating valuable content that naturally attracts links.
Remember, you're dealing with real people. Impress them with your content, and the links will follow.
Embrace the process, invest the effort, and prioritize quality over quantity.
