With the significant investment of finances and sweat equity involved to build a vibrant business, securing a strong placement in search rankings is imperative. To gain the attention of Google and other search engines, link building is a key activity.
We’re offering a free guide with 15 link building tips to help improve your search rank — but first, a little background about search engine optimization.
Off-page search engine optimization
Off-page SEO refers to activity that takes place outside of your website. It includes strategies such as content marketing (including guest blogging and email marketing) and participation on networking sites or online forums. If you offer a workshop or webinar through a Chamber of Commerce or business organization, for example, the event description typically includes a link to your website. Member profiles on industry sites also provide an inbound link to drive traffic to your website.
On-page SEO
Many on-page search engine optimization techniques involve technical items within your website’s back-end, such as image file names and alt tags, page-specific metatags and appropriate use of title tags. Also important for search engine optimization are utilization of site map and SEO plugins and ensuring that your website is secure (https) and mobile-responsive. The most significant contributor to on-page SEO success is original, keyword-rich and fresh, credible content.
Outbound links: Give to get
While authoritative inbound links are the ultimate SEO goal, link building typically involves an ongoing dialogue. Developing and proving authority is most effective when accompanied by relationship building, alliances and mutual support.
Outbound links from your site serve several purposes: They reinforce your involvement with industry organizations, users or interest groups, and underscore your relationship with high authority and credible experts.
Meaningful outbound links from your site provide positive SEO signals to search engines. For example, links to articles by industry thought leaders, user organization sites or interest groups demonstrate your immersion within your field. Similarly, outbound links to pertinent member sites showcase your credentials, education and authority within your industry.
Free downloadable infographic
We’ve created a free downloadable infographic with 15 link building tips to help you improve your rankings in search results.
- An explanation of search ranking and why it’s important
- Five types of outbound links to include on your website
- 10 examples of ways to cultivate inbound links to your site
- … and more!
Hey there, interesting article and infographic too! I agreed with your point that to gain the attention of Google and other search engines, link building is a key activity. I also get a good response after doing link building for my business. Keep writing!