Building 50,000+ Backlinks Has Taught Us These Lessons

Many people consider link building to be an uphill task. But that is not the challenge. The problem lies here: 🚫There are many guidebooks and videos on link building that are outdated or just impractical. What worked 5 years ago will not work in 2024.

So, we thought, why not share a practical guide on backlinks.

For new readers, let us give a small introduction.

We are BloggerOutreach, the world’s leading B2B SEO agency specializing in link building, guest posting, content writing, and blogger outreach services.

And for regular readers, thank you for trusting and reading our blog again.

Anyway, let’s get back to the topic.

Here is the truth: Bloggers and publishers no longer care about outreach. In fact, the top publishers are getting 100s of emails daily. But they open only a few of them.

Yes, we are telling this after building over 50,000 links in the past few years.

So you should be absolutely clear about what works and what doesn’t.

And there are a lot more link building lessons we have shared inside…So, let’s get started.

Table Of Contents:

• When to start building backlinks?
• Link building method that won’t work in 2024.
• Does paid link building work?
• So, what exactly works in link building?
• How is link building related to niches?
• Five steps to running a successful link-building campaign.
• The best tools for building backlinks.
• How to build links with no money.

⏳When To Start Building Backlinks?

Wondering when to dive into link building?

First, ask: Is your SEO strategy on point? 

Ensure a decent archive of BLOG posts/resources exists. Without these, link-building on thin content won’t yield worthwhile results.

Link-building isn’t a shortcut; it’s a commitment. Don’t venture into SEO unless long-term efforts align with your goals.

Now, the crucial part: initiate link building once the foundation is robust. A steady SEO plan coupled with ample content sets the stage. It’s not a quick fix – success takes time.

Picture link-building as planting seeds. Your content is the soil, SEO strategy is the water, and links are the sunlight. Without a fertile ground, seeds won’t grow. Without strategy, water, and sunlight, they wither.

Think of it like this: you wouldn’t build a house without a solid foundation. Similarly, don’t dive into link building without an established SEO groundwork. It’s the key to reaping long-term benefits.

Patience is the key: Don’t get into link building if you can not wait for at least 4-6 months. Sometimes it takes 6-12 months. But the results are steady and long-lasting. If you want overnight (temporary) results, try paid ads.

Imagine link building as a marathon, not a sprint. Sprinting might give quick results, but for lasting success, steady pacing wins. Link-building fits the marathon; it’s a gradual process, each link a step forward.

❌Link Building Methods That Won’t Work In 2024?

So, you’re diving into the link-building game in 2024.

Here’s the lowdown: tons of outdated info floats around the web. Let’s cut through the noise and highlight what won’t work anymore.

• First off, forget about forum link-building for ranking. Most forums now slap a no-follow tag on outgoing links, rendering your efforts useless. So, if you are doing it for ranking – stop doing it. It can only help you with your overall visibility.

• Web 2.0 links for ranking? Nope. Firstly, most people spam these platforms. So, it is better to carefully overhaul these links. It’s okay to use these links to improve your digital footprint.

• Blog comment links? Don’t bother. Most blogs also no-follow these links, making your time and effort go down the drain. It’s a common pitfall.

• PBNs (Private Blog Networks) have a catch. Well-constructed ones do the trick but beware of the ones from sketchy forums. They can bring your site down fast.

So, forget the old-school tactics. Google’s algorithms are smarter now – focus on what counts. It’s not about getting more links; it’s about getting the right ones. Craft a strategy that aligns with the current SEO landscape.

🤔💡Myth Debunked: Paid Link Not Necessary Leads To A Search Engine Penalty

So, let’s talk about the big myth: paying for links. Some say it’s a surefire penalty; others believe it’s just a waste.

Here’s the truth: unless you’re dealing with shady links or building them in a sketchy way, Google won’t sniff out the payment.

The fear of penalties often surrounds paid links. But, reality check: if you play it smart, Google won’t bat an eye. It’s not about the money; it’s about how you play the game.

Sure, some industries are all about paid links. CBD, forex, gambling – if you’re in these, paying for links might be your only ticket. Otherwise, your competition will pay and they’ll outrank you.

So, paid links aren’t a taboo; it’s the approach that matters. Stay savvy, stay competitive, and remember – in certain industries, paying for links is just business as usual.

🚀So, What Exactly Works In Building Backlinks?

Alright, let’s solve the mystery of effective backlink building. Forget the noise; here’s what truly works.

First, aim for real links from genuinely relevant sites. If you’re in SEO, seek links from authoritative digital marketing sites, SEO sites. Stick to the same topic – it’s the golden rule.

Relevant backlinks carry weight, boosting your credibility. In turn, your rankings get a boost.

Now, how do you spot a winner?

Here Are The Secrets To Prospecting:

• Look for sites drawing over 3000 Google traffic.
• Again, check their DA (at least: 30+; we recommend: 40+), and DR (45+).
• If possible, check the trust flow score because it’s a clear indicator of authoritativeness. A score of 50 or above indicates higher authority. Go for at least 30+ sites.
• Genuine, quality content is a green flag.
• Avoid sites that look like a community intended for link exchanges.
• Ensure they’re penalty-free.
• Check for an “about us” page; real people behind the site signal authenticity.

It’s not just about links; it’s about the company you keep. Build connections with high-quality, reputable sites.

Imagine backlinks as endorsements. You want recommendations from the cool kids, not the sketchy ones. Stick to relevancy, authenticity, and quality – the trifecta of successful backlink building.

✅👉Building Backlinks Is Different For Every Niche. Customize Your Strategy For Every Niche

Link-building requires strategy, but here’s the scoop: one size doesn’t fit all. Your strategy needs to dance with your niche.

Let’s say for a cooking blog. These folks are approachable, and usually run by enthusiasts. A friendly email can send you a link.

In contrast, for B2B blogging, it’s give-and-take. They want something – a quality guest post, a partnership, or a link exchange. Building links here means building relationships.

Now, the big leagues – competitive niches like CBD or Casino…It’s pay-to-play. Sure, a slick outreach game helps, but be ready to open the wallet for those backlinks.

Key Learning: Link-building isn’t a one-size-fits-all gig. It’s like tailoring a suit – custom for every niche. For yoga, it’s a friendly chat. B2B? It’s relationship building. Competitive spaces? Get ready to spend. Adapt your strategy; it’s the SEO secret sauce.

Step-By-Step Link Building Campaign For Authoritative Backlinks

Let’s break down the step-by-step plan to get authoritative backlinks. Practicality is the name of the game.

Step-1: Choose Your Campaign Type Wisely

What are the most apt link building campaign types for 2023? According to us, two campaigns work the best.

1. Link insertions
2. Guest posts

Yes, these two are the most popular ones as well. But do it strategically.

Check out our guides to know what it takes to acquire top-tier links.

<Share our guest posting guide and niche edit guide links here in pointers>.

If you have less time, link insertions are something that you consider. Because here you do not need to write a separate article for each backlink.

Creating linkable assets is the next step.

Here Are A Couple Of Things You Can Try:

• It’s an infographic you can add to an existing content.
• In-depth, high quality, Long-format content (industry insights, how-to guides, etc.)
• Data-driven content backed by original research. (surveying your users on a specific topic and then sharing their insights.)
• A free tool that solves a specific problem.

Still, wondering how to find linkable topic ideas in your niche?

Leverage Ahrefs and run a competitor analysis. Check their top linked pages. By doing so, you will get ideas about pages attracting the most backlinks.

We hope that you have finished this step. Let’s move on to the next one…

Step-2: Link Prospecting

Link prospecting, a vital step for securing quality backlinks, demands efficiency. If you, as a founder, find yourself tangled in this time-consuming process, your precious time could be spent elsewhere.

Now, let’s delve into the key tactics for effective link prospecting:

• Strategic Niche Selection: Align your niche with target blog categories. For instance, if you’re in the wellness sector, search for blogs on fitness, meditation, or healthy living. Google queries like “meditation blog” yield prospects.

• Keyword-Centric Linking: Identify articles where your content adds value. For instance, if promoting a new productivity app, search for articles using keywords like “boost productivity” or “time management tips.” Prospects in these articles are more likely to appreciate your resource.

• Natural Product Mentions: Discover articles organically mentioning products similar to yours. Suppose you offer eco-friendly office supplies; look for articles about “sustainable office practices” or “green workspace ideas.”

• Competitor Analysis for Outreach: Analyze competitors using tools like Ahrefs. Extract valuable backlinks they’ve secured. If a competitor in your industry earned a link, there’s potential for you too. This is a smart way to identify relevant targets.

• Leverage Existing Connections: Utilize relationships with sites already linking to you. Tools like Ahrefs or Semrush help identify backlink profiles. Engage with these connections, especially smaller bloggers open to reciprocal linking.

Whether you opt for manual prospecting, automation tools like ScrapeBox, Link Assistant, or sophisticated platforms like Pitchbox, the key is alignment with your niche.

Step-3: Finding The Point Of Contact

Reaching the right contacts is crucial to obtaining quality backlinks.

The Size Of The Company Or Website Dictates Your Approach:

• For media sites, engage with the post author.
• In corporate landscapes, your target audience is the head of content, editor-in-chief, or digital marketing.
• For personal blogs, the owner is your go-to.

(i) Leverage Hunter: Elevate your strategy with tools like Hunter. Unravel elusive emails with surgical precision, adding a layer of finesse to your outreach.

(ii) Cracking The Email Code: When Hunter stumbles, resort to decoding email formats like [firstname]@[company] dot com. It’s a logical pursuit that often unveils the missing link.

(iii) Small Blogs’ Hidden Potentials: Small blogs hold secrets. Don’t dismiss the effectiveness of general emails like info@company dot com; they might open unexpected doors.

When dealing with companies, do not use a generic approach. Your efforts may be relegated to oblivion if you send generic emails.

Step-4: Creating Customized Pitch

Ever sent a generic link-building email to 200 people and wondered why it flopped? That’s because everyone’s doing the same, and it’s as generic as it gets. Time to change the game.

Companies are more likely to respond to personalized emails, as it shows that the sender took the time to tailor their message to the specific company. Additionally, a personalized email can help to build rapport with the company, which can be beneficial in the long run.

(i) Subject Line Mastery

Make it personal. Mention the prospect’s name or site.

For example, “[Name], recipes in [site] are mouthwatering!”

• Tailor it to the niche, like “[name], I’m stuck in bronze, send help.”

• Keep it looking like a personal email, adding a touch of curiosity.

• Examples: “Question, [name]?” or an intriguing intro – “[name] <> [name].”

(ii) Body Copy Brilliance

Give genuine compliments tailored to your prospect list.

• For instance, “Your recipes are mouthwatering! Planning [latest recipe] for dinner with my [wife/husband].”

• Add jokes or references related to the niche. As a green thumb enthusiast, I “wanted to leave you a message and plant a few seeds of inspiration.”

Connect with their post. Get a VA to customize details from their post, like “Your post about 10-anniversary gifts saved me! Planning on a [gift from listicle].”

Keep it human—no corporate jargon. Make it look like an email to your BFF.

(iii) Email Etiquette

Avoid images or links; they hurt deliverability. If you must, add a CTA for a thumbs up before sending the post. Optionally, offer something in exchange for the backlink:

• Link back from a future guest post on a third-party site.
• Share their content with your Twitter audience.
• Pay for the link.
• Propose a backlink exchange.
• Provide free access to your software.
• Offer X free credits to your SaaS tool.

(iv) Your Unique Touch

Craft your own template for each campaign. Be creative; be you. Stand out in a sea of copy-paste. Make it genuine, personal, and interesting. Get noticed, get linked.

Remember, it’s not just about the link; it’s about building a connection.

Step-5 – Launching Your Backlink Campaign With Finesse

You’re almost there! Once prospects and email copy are set, the final step is to launch.

(i) Outreach Technicalities

Deploy a dedicated outreach domain, separate from your main one, to shield it from potential spam reports. For instance, if your brand is “brand dot com,” consider “brand PR dot com.”

Create private emails using Google Workspace, private email, Office 365, or Zoho. Use tools to warm up emails, sending, opening, and replying automatically for around 2 weeks per inbox.

(ii) Email Volume Insights

Limit daily emails to 60 per inbox, including follow-ups. Exceeding this risks inbox burnout, harming your deliverability.

For follow-ups, don’t go beyond 2 emails. If no response after 2, chances are they’re not interested now.

(iii) Deliverability Tactics

Exclude links in outreach emails for improved deliverability. Exceptions can be made for pitches, or add a CTA like “drop a thumbs-up, and I’ll send the link.”

Remember: Less is more. Quality over quantity.

(iv) Your Move

Launch confidently, adhering to these tips. Safeguard your main domain, warm up your outreach domain, and control your email volume. With strategic finesse, watch your backlinks soar.

Ready to hit “send” and elevate your campaign?

Boom..you are good to go!

Best Tools For Building Effective Backlinks

Ready to supercharge your link-building? Let’s dive into the essential tools – no manual struggles here.

(i) SEO Powerhouses:

Semrush and Ahrefs stand out as general SEO tools. Extract competitor backlink profiles and assess site potential for backlinks.

(ii) Outreach Essentials:

For beginners, Snov is a value-packed choice with warm-up, email finder credits, and outreach tools. Scale up with Pitchbox for top-tier performance in link-building.

(iii) Prospect Discovery:

Hunter dot io excels at finding prospect emails. Utilize Link Assistant or Scrapebox for efficient prospecting.

(iv) Email Optimization:

Ensure email health with Warmup Inbox and check deliverability with MailGenius.

Missed a couple? No worries, this covers the essentials. Streamline your link-building with these tools, and watch your backlinks soar.

Are You Short On Money? How Can You Build Backlinks?

If someone has the will to do it, resources can not prevent them from their goal.

Want more people to see your website without spending money?

(i) Find Cool Blogs

Look for blogs that are like yours. Talk to the people who run those blogs and see if they want to link to your site. Being friendly is the key!

Now, let’s fix some broken things and make new friends.

(ii) Fix Broken Links, Make Friends

Find broken links on websites like yours. Help out by suggesting your content to fix those links. It’s like being a good neighbour online!

Pictures can also help. Let’s talk about that.

(iii) Picture Power With Infographics

Make cool pictures that tell a story. Use websites like Fiverr or Upwork to find someone who can make them for you without spending too much.

But words matter too. Let’s talk about writing for other websites.

(iv) Guest Posting

Make friends with other websites and write something nice for them. Pick websites that are a good match for your stuff.

Let’s keep an eye on what’s happening online.

(v) Check On Competitors And Be A Detective

See what others are doing and what people are talking about. Google Alerts can help you keep an eye on things. It’s like being an online detective!

Now, let’s answer some questions online.

(vi) Help Answer Questions

Go to places like Quora and Yahoo Answers. Answer questions and be helpful. People might check out your site even though the links there don’t help your website right away.

But remember, be nice when you talk to others.

(v) How To Talk To Others

Say hello, be nice, and say good things about what they do. Explain why your stuff is cool and ask if you can work together. Manners matter!

Transition: Keep going; don’t stop!

(vi) Keep Looking For Good Opportunities

Finding ways to bring people to your website is not a one-time thing. Keep checking what others are doing, fixing broken links, and helping online. It’s like watering a plant; it takes time.

Transition: Let’s talk about answering questions on Quora.

(vii) Quora Tips

Help people on Quora, but remember, the links there don’t give you quick SEO points. Still, you might get more visitors who want to learn from you.

Yahoo Answers is also a good place!

(viii) Yahoo Answers Magic

Do the same thing on Yahoo Answers. Lots of people are there, and it’s another chance for your website to shine without spending money.

Be patient, good things take time.

(ix) Growing Online Takes Time

Getting more people to know about your website needs time and patience. It’s not a quick race; it’s like growing a garden. Be patient, and you’ll see good results.

Let’s talk about saving money while doing all of this.

(x) Saving Money While Growing

This guide helps you get more people to visit your website without spending money. It’s like having a magic trick for your website to become more popular.

Look at all the good things that will happen!

(xi) Good Things Will Happen

More people visiting your site, more people knowing about your brand, and getting more from what you do. This is your secret recipe for success!

Don’t forget to talk to your visitors!

(xii) Talking To Your Friends Online

Ask questions, and invite them to share their thoughts. Be ready to help and talk to them. It’s like having friends over at your online home. Happy chatting!

Wrap Up!

If you like reading this article find it valuable and want us to cover any topic of interest, let us know. We will surely cover that.

Again, if you want to take our personalized assistance for building authoritative backlinks, talk to our experts!

Read Also:

• Link Equity: The Most Up-To-Date Guide (2024)
• Link Relevance: The Key To Link Building Success
• Link Building For Mobile Marketing: 5X App Visibility