There are many ways to earn new links pointing to your website.
Remember, while content is "king" in search engine optimization, link building is "queen" and definitely plays a role.
Also, it's not about the quantity of inbound links, it's about quality.
Here are some good ways to build new links to your website:
- Reciprocal (trading) links. Don't go crazy here, but think strategically. The auto mechanic might want to trade links with the tire salesman or the body shop, etc. Consider trading links with business partners and good vendors. If you like their business and service, why not give them a link on your website (and maybe they will return the favor)?
- Directories. Look to industry-specific directories first. There are a ton of free directories. Again, a little bit goes a long way here, so use the "drip effect" of directory submissions.
- Paid Directories. Yes, Google has lowered the level of importance on a paid link, but I don't think you can go wrong with websites like Yahoo Directory, Best of the Web, Business.com, etc.
- Writing articles. This is an excellent way to earn links and build your expert status at the same time. For example, sometimes I'll write an article for a website designer or an advertising agency. They allow me a short bio with a link back to my website. Everyone wins with this relationship. The website gets fresh content and I earn a link.
- Press Releases. Make sure they are worthy; no sales pitch and provide good information. Most press releases can get published with a link pointing back to your website. Have a reason for the press release; don't do one just for the sake of trying to get a sales brochure published on the Internet. It won't work.
- Blog and forum posts. Read a blog you like? Let the author know, but please offer more insight than "nice post" or "good idea." Blog writers know you're trying to get a link, so offer some good information, a question or a comment. Work for it!
- Give 'em something to link to! If you want someone to link to your website or blog, give them excellent content and great reasons why they should link to you. Offer a "white" paper; a download; a free trial; a free sample; a free consultation. Anything useful or helpful will earn links.
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