Inbound Links, SEO, and You

Written by Joe on Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Inbound Links

Inbound links build your reputation and credibility among search engines (and potential customers for that matter). These inbound links (often called backlinks) also allow search engines to more easily find you, rank you and get you on the search lists. Not all backlinks are created equal, however.

Links that come from legitimate sites are best. If you are linked from a very popular site – even better. But purchased links from “link farms” might actually do more harm than good. It may sound daunting, but you can build a solid base of backlinks the right way if you are patient and consistent in your efforts.

The first step is to set up links from all of your own domains. Your blog, Facebook pages, Twitter accounts and any other social media outlets should all include links to your website. When you post entries on these outlets, include links to your site, as appropriate. When others “retweet” these links, you get exponential exposure.

You can also ask partners and affiliates to add links to their websites. It’s probably a good idea to return the favor too. Consider a section on your website that highlights the “products I use” or “services I recommend.” You’ll be amazed at how this will not only help your SEO rank, but it will increase your referrals too.

ignificantlyWhen possible, try to insert keywords into the anchor text (the text that acts as the link, such as click here or learn more). A keyword rich link might read The Gilbert Plumber or My Web Design Business. This will greatly increase your keyword credibility and skyrocket your search engine rankings.

Local Search Listings

If you provide products or services to local customers, a local search listing is a great way to increase your search engine exposure. When someone is looking for a localized provider, Google will often send them to their local listings.

To put your business on the map (literally), go to www.google.com/places. Select “Add New Business” to enter your business address, details, category, photos and more. Google will have to confirm your address with a phone call or a postcard
sent to your address. Once confirmed, you’ll begin appearing in local searches… and your rankings will improve significantly.

Keywords, inbound links and local search listings are a great way to get your website recognized in organic searches. And the best part? It’s totally free!