The Company Your Web Site Keeps.

I get asked quite often about link building and people are often perplexed when I suggest that they NOT trade web site links with just anyone.  Many so called search engine optimization gurus have spread the message that the more inbound links to your web site the better. I’m here to tell you that linking your web site from everywhere and everyone can be hazardous to your search engine results…. Let’s look at 3 common web site linking scenarios:

Scenario 1. You get a link exchange request from Bob Smith in Pakistan.  Bob wants to exchange links with you because Bob just thinks that your web site is the best thing since sliced gravy.  All he asks is that you link back to his mail order Pakistan bride company. Google doesn’t think too highly of Bob’s web site and now you are linked to Bob.  Guilt by association, Google could remove you from it’s database.

Scenario 2. You get an email from Mike in India.  Mike thinks you should let him submit your web site to 50 billion free web sites and directories for $14.99. You let him have it and now your web site is linked in with every free for all link directory in India, Pakistan, England, Russia, etc., all who are deemed as spammers by Google. Once again, guilt by association, could be game over for your web site.

Scenario 3. A like minded business or industry partner thinks that your web site is the cat’s pajamas.  His web site is also a great authority Both web sites provide rich, unique and useful content for your target audience.  You two link your web sites together, Google drops by and finds that you BOTH are authority figures.  Google is happy, your web site is happy.  This is how it should be done.

The bottom line.  Ignore spam designed to get you more inbound links.  Pay attention to people in your industry or like industry and keep your web site linked in good solid neighborhoods only.