
Getting other websites to link to your content is one of the most important factors for organic search rankings. But how do you start link building as a beginner? This guide will explain the basics of link building, tactics for earning links from authoritative sources, and why it should be a priority for any website owner.
Why You Need Links
Search engines like Google use the number and quality of incoming links to determine how relevant and popular a website is on a given topic. The more useful, authoritative websites that link to you, the more likely search algorithms are to show your pages near the top of results. Google’s algorithms see links as votes – so earning links from well-respected sites in your niche tells search engines your content deserves high visibility.
Building links is no small task. But sites that invest effort into link building see huge payoffs, typically ranking 10 or more positions higher on average than competitors. While links certainly enhance SEO results, they also boost website authority and credibility directly in users’ eyes.
Reach Out to Authority Sites
As a beginner link builder, focus on contacting relevant but smaller authority websites first. Look for niche blogs, directories and lesser-known review sites related to your industry. Reach out politely with a one paragraph email pitch highlighting why your content would benefit their readers. Offer exclusive insights, how-tos, or a byline to increase interest. Landing guest posts or mentions is a great start – aim high once initial links come in.
Some effective sites to reach include niche forums and Q&A communities where you can contribute high-quality answers over time. Local newspapers, magazines and business groups are also good prospects if your content has regional appeal. Always check sites’ submission guidelines first and make efforts to build rapport before asking directly.
Create Share-Worthy Content
Your best link-bait will solve universal problems or answer questions in original, engaging ways. Conduct keyword research to surface questions people frequently search. For example, create a unique infographic guide on home brewing techniques if “how to home brew beer” does well. Quizzes, lists and case studies are also popular content types to build social shares – and catch the eyes of editors. Promote your most linkable content to relevant communities and industry leaders on social media.
Earn Links Naturally Over Time
While links from major sites bring visibility fast, lower-authority links still help your domain authority gradually. Contribute to niche forums and helpfully answer questions on Quora and Reddit in your area. Be an active, thoughtful participant over weeks or months to build credibility. Credible commenters often find their profile URL turns into an automatic link when users click their name to check previous responses.
Consistency is key. Link building takes regular effort, but yields big benefits which compound over the long haul. Sites that succeed view it as an important ongoing strategy like content creation – not a short-term tactic. By earning links naturally from your strongest content, you can boost search visibility without compromising user experience or risking penalties. Link building helps you rise to the top, while staying true to providing value for your audience.
Conclusion
As this guide has shown, link building is one of the most effective ways for new websites to move up search rankings, but it requires real effort over time. Focus on creating remarkable content fitting for high-authority websites, develop rapport in niche communities, and contribute valuable insights consistently. Those who invest in building beneficial backlinks reap huge SEO rewards that fuel even greater success. Stay focused on quality links that serve users – not manipulating algorithms – to reach more customers online.