One
of the most effective ways to generate traffic to your Web site
is to exchange links with other Web sites. Both sites benefit
from reciprocal links with sites that attract the same targeted
audience. Links to your site increase your traffic, imply that
your site is worth visiting, and may increase your search engine
ranking. Links to other sites provide useful resources and give
visitors a reason to return to your site.
When
requesting a link, you will often get it -- especially if you
offer a link back and provide good content. It is harder to get
links if your content is strictly promotional. Link only to Web
sites that reach the customers you want, provide information your
target audience is interested in, and offer content and products
that complement yours. For example, a Web design company may link
to sites providing free graphics and diagnostic tools.
Four
Ways to Find Linking Partners
- Search
for Web sites to exchange links with by going to search engines
and using keywords related to your own site. Email the webmaster
and ask for a link exchange.
- Check
out Web directories to find appropriate sites to link with.
- Use link
management tools that let people submit their linking information
online and automatically updates your link pages.
- Use directories
of Web sites looking for reciprocal linking.
Tips
for Creating Links
- Create
a separate page containing links to other sites.
- Include
a benefit in your listing to motivate people to click on your
link.
- If you
don't know how to create links to other sites, have your webmaster
set them up for you. You'll need to provide the Web addresses
of the sites you want to link to and a short description of
what they offer.
How
to Get Other Sites to Link to You
- When
asking for a reciprocal link, provide a link first to their
site and mention it.
- Then
email a personalized message to the webmaster of the sites
you want to get a link from. Provide the following information
in your link request: Mention that you visited their site;
compliment their site; invite them to visit your site; provide
an incentive for them to link to you; mention how a link to
your site will benefit their visitors; ask for a link; provide
a suggested listing for your link.
Sample
Link Request - Click here
Linking works! It's worth taking the time to find sites to link
with.
