If you are just starting out in the world of search engine optimization, link building is one of its basic tenants.
To the person who is just starting out in the world of search engine optimization,
hearing the phrase "link building" would understandably put a quizzical look on your face. You'd maybe think there was some sort of programming going on, you know, because you are "building" something.
In reality, the "building" is more about the strategies you are putting together to amass inbound links from other websites to the one you are marketing, than any misperceived notion of technical work.
Why Link Building is Important
There are various reasons you want to have inbound links to your website. The most popular reason is that it is a major factor in how search engines determine the relevance of your website. Without getting in to the many nuances, in the broadest sense, having a lot of other websites linking to you affects your search rankings. So, when people are looking for dentists in your neighborhood, you will rank high (maybe even first!) when people search online.
What sometimes gets lost in the mix of why inbound links are beneficial is that it also creates good old fashioned publicity and awareness for your business, with traffic coming through those links.
Now let's get down to the various link building methods beginners can use to market their business. If you are working with a
professional SEO company, these may be some of the ways they build a foundation for your online presence and search engine ranking.
Submit Your Site To Business Directories
One of the most elementary approaches to link building is directory submissions. The process can long and arduous, but it’s a simple way to build a foundation of inbound links. There are countless free directory options, some with minimal value, others high.
While general directories have their place, make sure you take advantage of as many industry and local-specific directories as possible. This is not only good for SEO, but have a better chance of resulting business growth since people who go to those sites are obviously highly targeted to your location and industry.
Article Marketing
Another one of the head-scratching Internet marketing terms for the beginner, article marketing is when you write articles to be placed on other websites, including free article directory sites or even guesting as a blogger. Ideally, you will get links placed in the body of the article or in a bio. Besides the link building benefits, articles are an excellent vehicle for marketing your expertise, products, and services.
Reach Out to Friends and Family
An overlooked method of link building that is probably easier for the business owner than the SEO company they hire is reaching out to business partners, friends and family for links. Whether it’s a friend’s blog, a local business, or business organization, getting links this way shouldn’t be difficult and can earn potentially high-quality links.
