Backlinks, also known as incoming or inbound links, are links from one website to another. Google and other search engines treat these links as a vote of confidence, increasing the credibility and trustworthiness of your site.
We've put together seven tactics you can incorporate into your digital marketing strategy to help you build a strong backlink profile.
But before that, let's take a closer look at what backlinks actually are.
What is a backlink
Source: SpeedySense
What Are Backlinks?
Backlinks are essentially hyperlinks from one web page to another.
They serve as a way for users to navigate between pages on the internet and are the basis for search engines to evaluate the relevance of a website.
Search engines like Google use backlinks as armenia phone number resources a way to measure a site’s popularity and authority. According to VizibleSEO, 94% of SEOs believe Google will continue to use backlinks as a ranking signal over the next five years. The more high-quality, relevant backlinks a website has, the more likely it is to be considered authoritative in its industry.
However, not all backlinks are created equal. Search engines also evaluate the quality of the linking site and the context of the link.
A backlink from a reputable website carries more weight than one from a less established and trusted site.
Similarly, links in relevant and contextual content are more valuable than those placed in irrelevant contexts.
Now, let's see what are the seven tactics for building a strong backlink profile.
#1. Create High-Quality, Shareable Content
The foundation of a successful backlink profile is engaging content.
Content that is informative, engaging and adds value to the user is more likely to attract backlinks.
Focus on creating content that solves problems, answers questions, or provides unique insights . The more users find your content valuable, the more likely they are to share it with their audience, thus increasing the likelihood of earning quality backlinks.
Additionally, take the time to conduct extensive research to produce content that stands out in your industry. This can be in the form of well-researched articles, infographics, videos, or other engaging formats.
Additionally, regularly updating and refreshing your content helps maintain its relevance over time. When your content is seen as valuable, other websites are more likely to link to it as a resource, improving your backlink profile.
#2. Guest Posting
Benefits of guest posting
Source : EngaioDigital
Collaborate with other websites in your industry by offering to write guest posts.
Guest writing is a strategic approach that can help you build backlinks by contributing content to other websites in your industry .
Identify trusted websites and blogs that accept guest contributions and offer to write insightful articles for them. Include backlinks to relevant pages on your website in your guest posts.
This allows you to showcase your expertise and also gives you the opportunity to include backlinks to your website in the content.
When guest posting, make sure your content aligns with the host website’s target audience and guidelines. Focus on providing real value rather than just promoting your own interests.
Get straight to the point with the site owner or editor. Don't bother them with a bunch of details they don't need. Instead, summarize what you can give them in a few short sentences. Show them that you value their time.
You can also add backlinks to your press release to announce major milestones or partnerships, further strengthening your brand's visibility and credibility.
Building relationships with other bloggers and website owners through guest posting can lead to long-term collaborations and increased backlink opportunities.
#3. Build Relationships with Influencers and Industry Publications
If possible, connect with influencers and thought leaders in your industry . Engage with their content, share their posts, and build a genuine relationship.
When influencers notice your genuine interest, they may naturally link to your content. These backlinks generated by influencers can significantly help you build a strong backlink profile and drive targeted traffic to your site.
If they are not familiar with backlinks and SEO, you can provide them with a training plan so they can link to your content correctly .
Additionally, establishing relationships with industry publications and authoritative websites can open the door to valuable backlink opportunities.
Start by identifying reputable publications in your industry and explore collaboration opportunities. This could include contributing guest articles, providing expert opinions, or participating in interviews.
By aligning your brand with reputable publications, you gain backlinks and increase your credibility in the eyes of your target audience.
Building relationships with editors and journalists can create ongoing opportunities for backlinks as your expertise and content become more recognized in your industry.
#4. Take Advantage of Social Media Platforms
Popular social media platforms
Source: WordStream
Using social media platforms is also a great tactic.
You can use social media management as a powerful tool to connect with your target audience and also build backlinks.
Share your content on various social media channels and encourage your followers to do the same.
While social media links do not directly impact search engine rankings, they do contribute to increased visibility and can lead to organic backlinks from other websites.
Additionally, some social media platforms like the famous Instagram or Facebook allow you to add links to your profile or posts, providing an opportunity for users to go to your website.
So, make sure you’re actively participating in relevant groups and discussions on these platforms to connect with others who might find your content valuable and link to it – but don’t overdo it. We’ll talk about that in a moment .
#5. Creating Broken Links
Broken link building
Source: Ahrefs
Identify broken links on authoritative websites in your industry and reach out to them.
Offer them a “placement” link to your relevant, high-quality content. This tactic will help them fix broken links and give you the opportunity to earn a valuable backlink.
To implement broken link building, you can use certain SEO tools to find broken links on related websites that can help you find broken links on other websites .
Broken link building is an effective strategy that involves identifying broken or dead links on other websites and reaching out to suggest your content as a “placement.” This tactic benefits both parties — you provide a solution to the broken link problem, and you get a valuable backlink in return.
You can start by creating a polite outreach email that notifies the website owner about the broken link and offers your content as a suitable “placement.” When you don’t hear back from them, consider sending a reminder email to effectively communicate with website owners and resolve broken link issues .
Make sure to highlight the relevance and value of your content to increase the likelihood that they will update the link to yours.
#6. Join Online Communities and Forums
By following any of the above-mentioned points, start participating in discussions in online communities and forums related to your industry.
Actively contribute by answering questions, providing insight, and sharing your expertise.
