Search algorithms constantly evolve to better rank the increasing amount of websites. Since over 350,000 websites are launched every single day, this is a herculean task. Even though search engines are becoming more adapt at deciphering website content , one of the key components of search algorithms is the use of link-building or backlinks.

What are Backlinks?

Backlinks, often referred to as inbound or incoming links, play a crucial role in the landscape of search engine optimization (SEO). SImply put, they are hyperlinks from one website to another.

Common Backlink Terms

• Referring domain is where the backlink originates. Ideally, this is the website that has a link back to your website.

• Referring page is the exact page where the backlink hyperlink is found.

• External backlink is a hyperlink link to outside the current website to another.

• Internal backlink is a link between two pages on the same website. For example, this blog will have a link to my contact page so that would be considered an internal backlink.

Backlink Authority

Not all backlinks are considered equal. Domains that are considered authoritative naturally carry more weight than lower-ranked sites. The goal is not to get the most backlinks but to ensure the ones you do get are the from the highest quality referring sites.

How Do Backlinks Actually Work?

Google will assess a site’s quality based on expertise, authority, and trustworthiness (aka EAT). Links from these relevant, authoritative, high-traffic sites will increase traffic to your own site simply because they have that much more exposure. This referral traffic can lead to higher engagement rates, and if your content resonates with users, they are more likely to share it, further amplifying your reach.

An important note is that when you publish a page with internal backlinks from already-indexed pages, Google is faster to discover and crawl the new page.

Building Relationships and Networking

The process of acquiring backlinks often requires outreach and engagement with other websites and influencers in your industry. This outreach not only helps you obtain valuable links but also fosters relationships that can be beneficial in the long run. Networking with other professionals can lead to guest posting opportunities, collaborations, and increased brand awareness.

Supporting Content Relevance

Search engines take into account the relevance of the linking site’s content when evaluating backlinks. If your website is linked to by sites that have similar themes or topics, it strengthens the relevancy of your own content. This relevance helps improve your SEO, as search engines prioritize content that is both high-quality and contextually appropriate.

How to Build Up Your Backlinks

There are a number of approaches:

• The easiest by far is to hire a backlinks processing company that will scour the internet for relevant, high-ranking sites and submit your information. Contact Charlotte’s Web Designs, LLC for a free customized estimate for this service.

• A longer term approach but highly successful approach is to reach out to the highest value sites you can find and simply start a relationship. The key is to give more than you expect to receive. Offer to link to their sites and see if you can help them with content or something else.

• Research niche sites that cater to a very specific audience. Although the focus may be narrow, the competition will be much less.

• Subscribe to a service (such as Semrush) to perform a search of relevant sites and send out a mass email. This is not often successful but you may get one or two.

Why Businesses May Fail at Building Backlinks

Like SEO or organic advertising, link-building takes time. It needs to create a momentum to truly be successful. Here are the top reasons why many businesses give up too soon.

• Expecting overnight results

• Content that isn’t original or high-quality

• Neglecting internal linking

• Poor site structure and experience

• No cohesion between organic and paid content

Link building takes time, patience, and ingenuity.

Conclusion

Backlinks are a foundational element of effective SEO strategies. They enhance your website's authority, drive traffic, facilitate indexing, contribute to relationship building, and support content relevance. Investing time and effort into creating high-quality content that encourages backlinks is vital for improving your website's ranking and overall online presence. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, understanding the importance of backlinks remains a critical component of successful website management and growth.

Need Help?

Small business owners must wear many hats: CEO, CFO, Product Specialist, Customer Service Manager, and many more. Not every business owner has the time or experience to write relevant content on a consistent basis, not to mention the knowledge to utilize SEO or social media to its fullest extent. Backlinks processing can be another full time job on top of everything else!

Please contact Charlotte’s Web Designs, LLC for link building as part of your overall marketing plan. With over 100 businesses and counting, CWD has a perfect 5-star rating for several reasons: over 30 years technology and marketing experience, customer service, reliability, and unparalleled results. Please visit my current portfolio here and reach out to get started.