7 Strategies To Get Links Without Needing To Directly Ask For One

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A discussion on link building is a topic already beaten to death as an SEO technique. There is little to say now, except there is a change in algorithms of search engines and, more importantly, the need for creativity with tactics. Typical outreach approaches are now boring, and losing their effectiveness. Pestering bloggers and content producers for links is becoming a norm of no interest.

If you are already tired of the usual outreach approach and want something different from the begging request style, we’ll show you some inspiring ways to launch your link building mechanism all over again, and in style.

The Obstacle

Some bloggers are successful with their outreaches and have results to show for their efforts. Others have to go through processes that are often not worth their time. It’s a common problem. People just say, “hey, this is what I have, I think it’ll help, just link to it”.

Even when the information is really what it should be, this request and pleading approach no longer seems to work. The best outreach gurus and link builders have attested to the success rate being between 5 to 10 %. Read on to find ways you can do better

1. The “This is my product, you’ll find it useful”

This is an easy tactic that may look familiar, but with a different approach. The simple change is this; it does not say, “I made so-and-so and you just have to use it”. The presentation is; “I made this product and you will benefit from it. So can others, if you care to link to it.”Let’s say you found some resource, and made contact with the author through social media and email. And here you are, with an additional resource that fits with the author’s interest, or market. Instead of just asking for a link to your content, you have something to leave behind that organically links to yours.

2. The “You need a list A. I have A or I’m A”

This is an indirect way to ask for links without saying so. There is a need and you happen to be the solution. What more can be asked for? You become the reference. It’s just like saying, “Is there a blog that focuses on childcare?” and you respond in the affirmative, “I am exactly that. I’m here.” It’s that simple to get your link without directly requesting for one. You’ve met a need, and naturally attract links in return.

Another instance could be that an award for CSS design is organized, and you happen to have some beautiful designs. It does not matter what the area is - it is about you meeting a need, and getting the link-back as a result.

3. The “Permit me to be of help with that”

Rendering some help is always welcomed by those who require it. This tends to be a wide scope of opportunity. Discover some sources and go after them by following them on social media, or by their content, broadcast or other modes. Look out for when they have a project at hand from their publications, and then offer to assist in whichever way you are capable of. This will reflect well on you, and people will naturally link back to you.

So keep your eyes open for areas where you can help, solve a problem or assist anyway you can - and reap the result with a link back to your website.

4. The “I’d gladly be available to give my approval”

Testimonials are powerful tools. People want endorsements for their products and services. This form of review is an SEO booster, and any website owner who knows this will jump at anyone offering a testimonial.

You can approach a website quite simply. For example: “I observed you run this business, own this content or manufactured this product. I liked it after using it, and it is from my region. I offer to contribute in some way to promotion by giving my endorsement in a testimonial.”

A link back is almost certain. The website will likely mention you in return, as someone with their own website or business, who has tried and liked the product. Consumers reading your testimonial are likely to click on the link back to your site, and so the traffic flows through.

5. The “Guest posting format”

This is a well-known practice that still works well today. Guest posting on blogging platforms and websites will bring links back to your website. Guest editorials work too. If content creation is your thing, you’ll find this a great avenue to get some traffic back to your site.

6. The “Beginners’ solution provider”

Due to the enormous size of the internet, it is customary that learners will be among those searching for one thing or another. Creating content directed at people trying to learn something is a good way to capture their attention. Posts such as guides, solutions to a problem and ‘How to’ articles often get more views from people trying to learn something new.

7. The “Press potential”

An authentic press solution is great for link building if you have the opportunity to get on any broadcast media, or other channel. Getting the press interested - either print or audio-visual - will give your product exposure via the internet. Think of a state TV station linking to your website, as well as individuals and corporate organizations. It may appear stressful getting one to start with, but it gets even better thereafter.  Start by getting your press release to the appropriate media house, like newspapers, and TV or radio stations.

There are also vendor sites. Since a relationship is already created with your vendors, it is much easier to ask for the addition of your website to their listings. You can make it easier for them by making the link code available to include on their site.

Link building through making requests and outreaches are almost losing their value. People are tired of the approaches and they are no longer as effective as they were. But you don’t need to ask for one if you apply the simple strategies outlined here - just offer something in return, create value, and you will have traffic flooding to your site in no time.

Posted 21 September, 2017

EdwardSuez

Sales & Marketing Guru

Edward is the Sales & Marketing Correspondent for Freelancer.com. He is currently based in Sydney, and is a self-confessed ice-cream fan.

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