Thursday, October 30, 2008

Link Building Requires Little Attention Being Paid to Numbers

By Julie Johnson

It's easy to get bogged down in the numbers. There are a number of reasons that mass directory submissions perpetuate in the link building process, and one of them has to do with a very rational process in business - the need to focus on measurable, consistent metrics to gauge progress. Which sounds better to a manager or a client: 50 minor directory submissions or three sustainable, quality links?

Your client might be happy with the fifty small links at first, but once they realize the difference between those and the three good links, they will not be. Conducting business in this manner is irresponsible. The issue with this type of business conduct is that you are putting the focus on the number of links, regardless of quality, instead of gaining actual results with your links.

Free directories vary, with some having instant approval, some 3-6 months and some (evidently) never. Some directories will approve your listing, only for the directory to disappear several months later. Use good judgment when selecting free directories, and submit in a limited capacity to those that have proven in the past to accept links on a fairly timely basis. Make sure they have staying power - does the link still show up for other sites you registered there?

Most importantly, do not underestimate cultivating relationships on the internet, you will gain valuable links by doing so. Write emails to webmasters that are not spammy, and to sites that are relevant to your industry. Be creative when discovering new ways to submit information to directories, instead of copying and pasting the same thing over and over.

Work on links with blogs in your industry, which sometimes have a multiplying effect. Resist getting bogged down in the numbers, find a new approach to increase effectiveness, and your clients will thank you.

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