subject: Five Effective Link Building Strategies [print this page] Link building is, without a doubt, the most tedious and time-consuming task facing any SEO or webmaster. Like it or not though, link building is a fundamental and important part of the Search Engine Optimisation process. Search engine algorithms do take links into consideration when ranking sites, and there is no substitute for high-quality backlinks when trying to show a site's authority or expert status.
I've spoken about the different types of links and their role in Search Engine Optimisation previously. To reiterate the two points relate specifically to this post remember that a) natural links work best and b) the company you keep is important when it comes to linking effectively.
So, when I talk about link building strategies here, I am talking about more than merely going onto link directories and adding your site in the appropriate category. This certainly isn't the worst thing you can do (and it's on the list). However, there are numerous other ways to encourage backlinks to your site.
What follows are 5 suggestions for effective link building strategies.
1. Submit to link directories
There is still a place for directory submissions, provided you submit your site to relevant (industry related) directories, and under the correct categories. Check the PageRank of the directory too to see how Google values its importance. Backlinks from better directories will be more valuable from an SEO perspective.
Remember to vary your anchor text and try to use your keywords in the description and title fields as naturally as possible.
2. Write articles (and syndicate them)
Create and syndicate articles on sites like EzineArticles and GoArticles. The great thing about good article directory sites is that their article pages usually rank well and send highly qualified traffic to your website.
Well written general articles will be syndicated elsewhere creating more backlinks to your site via the author bio. While these links may not have the power they once did (due to the fact that search engines discount duplicate content), these articles do give your brand exposure on multiple platforms and can send qualified traffic directly to your site.
Articles also go a long way towards establishing your site as an authority on a specific subject matter. Articles that are well written should be referenced and linked to in other posts and articles, which definitely does pass on link authority.
3. Provide useful and unique content
This may seem obvious, but creating content that people see as valuable and that they want to read is one of the best ways to build links naturally.
It's neither possible nor practical to try to cater to everyone's interests or tastes so focus on what you're good at and work on providing value to your peers in your industry. Be aware though, that this natural "softly softly" approach can take time.
4. Email people and make friends
Simply ask for links!
Not sure where to start? Run queries in Google and Yahoo Site Explorer to see who's linking to your competitors' domains, and which non-competing sites rank well for the keywords for which you'd like to rank. This should provide you with a list of sites to target for linking requests.
Remember though, as webmasters receive loads of link requests, ensure that you are original in your request and that you can offer them value through an exchange. Suggest a page where the link could be placed, and to where on your site you'd like it to go. Webmasters are inclined to be more receptive to requests when it's clear you've actually looked at their site.
5. Help others help you
Also, while you're building a network related to your vertical, why not contribute to other non-competing blogs or sites as a guest blogger? Most website owners love new (and unique) content, but don't necessarily have the time to create it themselves. Guest posts serve a dual purpose for you they are a way to get decent backlinks to your own site, and they are an exercise in brand-building and online PR.
Link building certainly isn't the easiest part of SEO, but it's very necessary. Have you found any link building strategies that have been particularly effective for you? Let us know in the comments.
