I've always been a proponent of discussing the bad way to do things because by avoiding the bad ways we are inherently focused on doing good things.
I applied this methodology to link building in order to compile this list of the 5 worst ways to link build, along with some actionable techniques to focus on instead.
Here it goes:
Every blog owner is familiar with the barrage of spam comments that seem to come after putting a new post live. You know, the ones that look something like this:
Not only is this annoying for webmasters but it has to be the WORST way to build links. You aren't adding value anywhere and you certainly wont survive Google's algorithm updates in the long term.
Yes, blog commenting can actually be a great strategy for growing your blog when it's done the right way.
Here is an example of a thought out and meaningful blog comment:
Nate has the right idea (Cheers Nate!) in posting a thoughtful comment that will advance the conversation.
For more information on best practices with blog comments, check out a recent Search Engine People post on the subject.
If anyone is doing this still... stop! I am not going to go into a whole lot of detail on the negative aspects of this because Claire already wrote a great post here about it.
Instead, lets look into a better idea.
Although still a bit borderline, you would have much greater success by writing quality content and submitting it to a place like Ezine. However, in the scheme of things, you wouldn't be too far off if you avoided article submission altogether.
Another technique that really lost all of its effectiveness with recent Google updates. If you are using a network that is still working, chances are that it wont for long! Combine article spinning with this and you are really wasting your time.
Yes, I said it. Contact real people at real blogs with real communities that accept guest posts. Do a search on Google for things like:
guest post + your niche
guest post guidelines + your niche
guest author + your niche
This Google search will yield a ton of great places to guest post at.
There are many benefits to guest posting, including:
- Meeting a new audience.
- Getting a link to your site.
- Meeting other bloggers and building REAL relationships.
Guest posting remains my favourite form of link building (in case you didn't notice by this post.)
Another technique that took a big hit with Google updates. Although the ability to get tons of links in a few minutes may SEEM appealing, you need to understand that these links are of VERY low quality.
As you may know, as a pages value goes up, it receives exponentially more value in Google's eyes. For example, a PR 3 link is more than a hundred times better than a PR 0 link.
Thus, even though directory submission software might get you 1000s of links, are they really worth the chance of getting penalized by an algorithm update? NO!
If there are legitimate high quality directories in your niche, by all means, submit! However, stay away from any directories that mention link swaps or paid links. These are targets for Google's spam protection team.
You shouldnt only rely on processes like I have explained above. While they can be very effective, they shouldn't be your only link building methods.
Yes, eventually you are going to have to sit down and create content so great it just beckons for someone to link to it. It isn't as hard as you would think!
Look at other pieces of content online that have received large amounts of links and mimic what they have done
Conclusion
Yes, that wraps up the list. Now go out there and link build!
I look forward to connecting with everyone in the comments section below
If you like this post you might also enjoy 4 Ways to Link Build Without Asking for a Link
