One of the most intriguing aspects of link building is its blend of art and science, perhaps with a heavier emphasis on art. Though I often find myself skeptical about terms like "relationship building," there is some truth to them. Success in this area often hinges on convincing webmasters of your value and proposals. Without gaining their favor, obtaining links can be extremely challenging.
Here are a few tips to become a more approachable link builder:
Outreach
Avoid being intrusive. If a website provides no contact information, it may be an indication they prefer not to be contacted. While various methods exist to find such information, pursuing them can often feel invasive. Nowadays, if no contact details are available, we simply assume reaching out is unwelcome. The absence of contact information is akin to a "Do Not Disturb" sign on someone’s door.
Respect “no contact” requests. When someone asks to be left alone, respect their wish and cease further attempts. Persisting in contacting after being told to stop is inconsiderate. Upon receiving a rejection, accept it and move on. It’s acceptable to inquire about why an offer was declined, but if you’re asked not to reach out again, it’s best just to comply.
Don’t bombard people on multiple platforms. This aligns with the previous tip but deserves particular emphasis. Contacting someone through various channels can verge on harassment. Imagine if a friend surprisingly appeared where you were dining after seeing your location online, despite you telling them you were busy.
Discovery
Trust your instincts if something feels off. Over time, I’ve learned to rely on gut instincts. If a site looks promising but something feels amiss, it’s likely worth investigating further. Recently, after some initial positive interactions, a deeper dive revealed concerns about content quality and outbound links, leading to reconsideration.
Don’t judge solely by appearances. Both aesthetically pleasing and outdated sites can be equally beneficial or detrimental. A site’s visual appeal doesn’t guarantee its effectiveness in helping you gain rankings or traffic, and vice-versa.
Negotiation
Know when to accept and move on. If a webmaster declines a proposal, accept it gracefully without overextending to turn a "no" into a "yes." Occasionally, a follow-up might be justified if there’s a misunderstanding, but respect their decision ultimately. Desiring a link can sometimes cloud judgment.
Accept rejection positively. Handling rejection in business is often more straightforward than in personal life. While it may be frustrating, it’s important to focus on finding other opportunities rather than dwelling on lost chances. With more experience, I’ve recognized that setbacks often reflect areas for personal improvement.
Closing Thoughts
Regardless of what else you offer beyond content—be it free products or financial incentives—the majority of links will arise from someone liking you or what you stand for. Recognize that link building involves significant relationship building, just as in any real-life interactions. While it’s more than just relationship building, building rapport remains a fundamental aspect of the complex process involved.
