How To Build SEO Links With White Hat Tactics In Mind
The art of link building requires that a website owner knows who, where, and what to link to and from. It’s something that seems easy at first, but is actually harder to manage than you would initially think. To stay safe from filters and penalties, only practice white hat methods that are described.
Never under estimate the power of networking with others. It holds true for the Internet as well- search engines like to see networks of local businesses. It gives them extra weight in the search results. If you already have friends who have websites, you might ask for a friendly link from them. Offer to link back to them as a simple “thank you” and to also help them out in their own business search listings.
Directories are still popular on the Internet, It was once common for Internet users to find directories to even find websites- but things changed once the search engines took over. Search engines still see directories as valuable tools, and getting listed in one is a good thing. The listings you get vary based on the directory; look for local directories that are relevant to your business niche and industry.
If you have competitors in your niche, such as the kid down the road who just started a web development business, you might see how they are ranking. If the result is better than your own ranking, look at what links they have built through free online tools. Make an attempt to gain the same links if at all possible. Many times it may not be, but it’s worth researching.
A white hat SEO program will allow a website owner to ask for links from other website owners. Just make sure that you are willing to offer a link back to the website before sending the email. Also make the email personable so that the website owner knows it isn’t a spam bot trying to harvest links or trick them. Give them a phone call when applicable to show that you mean business.
If you do decide to network with those who you may not know, and thus not necessarily trust, use a tool to check that the links to your website are always live. It is sometimes the unfortunate case that a website owner will remove the link and still enjoy the benefits of the link you point to their website. There are free tools to do this.
Final Thoughts
Although effort should be put forth in building links, it should only be done in a way that is white hat. If you don’t, you can be exposed to penalties enacted by the major search engines. The result could greatly reduce visibility on the web.
Learn more on google page rank and back links.
