Link building is an inextricable portion of the online marketing pie. Links can be incoming or outgoing. Both are helpful to a brand. Incoming links are a signal of authority and expertise. Outgoing links help on-page browsers locate information. However, many brands place deep emphasis on incoming links, ones that are not directly under their control.
Link building is a laborious project that takes time and dedication to culminate in success. There are multiple ways to go about the process; however, ensure you are placing more emphasis on people relations and less on automated processes.
What’s the Difference?
Think about preparing invitations to a party you’re throwing. Which type of invitation is likely to strike a better chord with receivers, a hand-written invite, personally speaking to the invitee, or a mass email going out to any and everyone?
Let’s be honest. We all know which is likely to fare better with invitees. Approaching people for a possible link is very similar. Place deeper emphasis on the people aspect. It’s not a game of numbers. Moreover, such games can get a brand into trouble regarding penalties.
Automation Limited
There are tons of automated ways to scour the Web for potential link opportunities. However, stop at that thought. Mold the automated opportunity into a personal relationship. Automation is a way to narrow your target market, not a replacement of peer relations. Unfortunately, many brands go forth with automated-like connections, yet are surprised when response volumes are low.
Again, it’s not a game of numbers. Furthermore, some brands are highly selective about outgoing links. The relationship has to make sense. Why should their brand offer their readers a link to your site? How can it benefit their readers or their brand? It’s not just about you.
Making Friends
Link building is a lot like making friends. Would you be good friends with everyone in the world? That’s a kind thought, but doesn’t seem very realistic. Some people get along better do to similar interests. Go about link building with that attitude. There should be a common ground or point of interest. Otherwise, realize there are plenty of other fish in the link-building sea.
Link building is a need, but it doesn’t come easy, just like sales. Every business wants to succeed, yet patience is often required. Any attempts to rush or automate things which need meticulous attention are going to fall flat. Link building is more about people and less about automation.
James Brown works with a team of writers at WebiMax, addressing online marketing needs for clients of all sizes and industries.
About the Author
