What are backlinks
Simply put, a backlink is a link from other websites pointing back to your site. Sounds straightforward, right? Well, yes and no. Not all backlinks are created equal, and there are some rules to follow for them to effectively boost your site’s ranking. For instance, a backlink should be a clickable hyperlink with anchor text. An unclickable URL won’t do much good, but a properly hyperlinked URL will.
Why are backlinks crucial for SEO
Google evaluates over 200 factors when determining where a page should rank, and backlinks are among the top three — alongside content quality and RankBrain, Google’s AI. So, while creating high-quality content is essential, building a robust backlink profile is equally important for ranking well on Google.
How do backlinks work
A backlink signals to Google that your content is valuable. However, the impact varies depending on the type and context of the backlink. The anchor text used and the placement of the link on the page (higher up generally has more impact) play a role, but the most significant factors can be summed up with the acronym ART:
- Authority: Authority: Backlinks from reputable and high-authority domains significantly enhance your site’s credibility and improve its search engine rankings.
- Relevance: Is the linking site related to your content? Links from sites within your industry or niche are more impactful.
- Trust: Does the site follow ethical SEO practices? Sites that avoid shady tactics and provide quality content are more trustworthy.
Which backlinks are best
When it comes to backlinks, focus on those that enhance the content of the page they link from. Ideal backlinks come from sources that provide value, such as studies, tests, or detailed guides that support or expand on your content.
The most valuable backlinks are dofollow links—they signal search engines to follow them, giving credit to the linked site. These links can boost your website’s search visibility. If they include your target keywords and come from high-authority websites in your niche, they are the best.
Key factors for effective backlinks
- Reputable Sources: When choosing a site for backlinks, prioritize the site’s reputation and relevance over its size. Reputable websites are trusted and reliable, known for delivering accurate, well-researched, and high-quality content. These sites have a strong reputation and authority in their niche or industry.
- Natural Integration: Ensure the link is a natural fit within the content, providing value and context to the reader.
The Role of Anchor Text
The main function of anchor text is to signal to search engines the subject or theme of the linked page. It aids search engines in understanding the interconnection between web pages and helps assess the relevance of the linked content to specific keywords or topics. This not only enhances user experience but also boosts the visibility and ranking of your web pages in search results.
Avoid Bad Backlinks
Not all backlinks are beneficial. Links from spammy or irrelevant pages can harm your credibility with both users and search engines. Always avoid backlinks from low-quality or unrelated sources, as these can dilute your site’s authority.
Why are backlinks important
Backlinks enhance your site’s authority and domain ranking, much like positive reviews help a business stand out. Imagine searching for a reliable plumber: you’d likely choose the one with the most credible recommendations. Backlinks function similarly, signaling to search engines that your site is a reliable resource worth ranking highly.