Link building

You need a handful of real mentions from sites your buyers read. One link from a trusted niche site can beat dozens from weak pages. Build things people want to cite: a product page with clear specs, a simple tool, a study with original data, or a guide that solves a sharp problem.

• Ship a product, tool, study or page worth linking. For example, /tools/roi-calculator that solves a common task.
• Launch where real audiences gather. For example, Product Hunt or a relevant community with rules you follow.
• Get listed on category pages, comparisons and roundups, where inclusion is editorial.
• Guest write when it is genuinely edited and fits the site’s readers.
• Reclaim unlinked mentions. Ask for a link where you are named but not linked.
• Form partnerships with real users. Case studies and integrations often earn natural links.

Track referring domains, not just raw link counts. A new domain that cites you is a stronger signal than ten sitewide links from one place. Watch the quality of the page that links, its relevance and if the link is followed or nofollow.

• Use the Search Console Links report to see top linking sites and pages.
• Check anchor text for brand, product and natural phrases. Avoid pushing exact-match anchors.
• Log unlinked brand mentions you can reclaim. For example, “yourproduct.com” named without a link on a review.
• Measure outcomes, not just counts: referral signups, demo requests, or time on the landing page.

1. 1

   List your linkable assets

   Pick two: a helpful tool, a data point no one else has, or a clear comparison page like /alternatives/competitor.

2. 2

   Publish and pitch three targets

   Find three sites your buyers read. Send a short, specific note. Offer the asset because it fits a page they already maintain.

3. 3

   Reclaim mentions

   Search for your brand and founder names. Where you are cited without a link, ask for one politely with a working URL.

4. 4

   Secure two editorial listings

   Apply to one category page and one roundup that curates tools in your niche. Give facts, screenshots and pricing so editors can list you.

5. 5

   Pick one guest article

   Pitch a topic that extends your asset. For example, a methods post that cites your study and adds value without anchor stuffing.

Links from most social networks and many directories carry nofollow. They help discovery and traffic, but they are not meant to pass ranking. Use them for profiles and launches, not as your core plan.

• Do not scale link exchanges. One-off partnerships are fine, schemes are not.
• Avoid mass guest posts with templated bios. Seek editorial review and fit.
• Ignore spammy “link back checker” blasts and automated offers. If it looks easy, it is likely risky.
• Do not obsess over sitewide footer links. One contextual link on a relevant page is the goal.