Link Building Techniques That Work Today

Introduction

• Presenter: Matt Diggity
• Focus: Effective link building techniques for today's SEO environment.
• Common techniques discussed: guest posting, broken link building, skyscraper outreach.
• Importance of upgrading traditional methods.

Common Issues with Traditional Link Building

• Basic link building strategies are becoming ineffective.
• Example email pitches are often generic and unappealing.
• Need to stand out and offer unique value in pitches.

Effective Link Building Techniques

1. Guest Posting

• Definition: Offering to write content for a website in exchange for a link.
• Problem: Most pitches are unoriginal and lack personalization.
• Improved Approach:
  • Find outdated content on relevant sites.
  • Offer to update or rewrite that content for them.
  • Use tools like Hunter.io to find contact emails.
  • Example template for outreach:

    Hi [Name],  
    I noticed your article on [Topic] is outdated. I’d like to help by updating it for you.  
    

2. HARO (Help A Reporter Out)

• Definition: A platform for journalists to request expert quotes.
• Challenges: High competition, low success rates.
• Revamped Technique:
  • Act as a journalist looking for quotes.
  • Exchange links with other experts instead of asking for links directly.
  • Example communication:

    Hi [Name], we’re full on quotes, but could you link to us in exchange for a mention in our article?  
    

3. Link Insertions

• Definition: Requesting to add a link to an existing article.
• Common Approach Issues: Pitches often focus too much on the requester.
• Improved Approach:
  • Mention payment for link insertion to capture attention.
  • Use scripts to negotiate link placements after pricing discussion.

4. Broken Link Building

• Definition: Finding and replacing broken links in existing articles.
• Common Mistakes: Pitches focus on outdated content.
• Improved Technique:
  • Look for broken links in recent articles.
  • Target articles that just published and offer replacements.

5. Unlinked Brand Mentions

• Definition: When brands are mentioned without a link.
• Improved Approach:
  • Create a list of unlinked mentions for a target brand and offer it as a favor.
  • Example outreach:

    Hi [Name], I compiled a list of unlinked mentions for you. As a favor, could you link to my site in return?  
    

Conclusion

• Emphasized the importance of unique, value-driven pitches in link building.
• Encouragement to apply these techniques for improved SEO outcomes.