{"id":10447,"date":"2024-07-05T16:46:58","date_gmt":"2024-07-05T16:46:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/"},"modified":"2024-07-05T16:46:58","modified_gmt":"2024-07-05T16:46:58","slug":"how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Increase Website Authority (7 Proven Strategies)"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Since Backlinko\u2019s launch in 2012, we\u2019ve experimented with countless tactics to build website authority. Some successful. Others not so much.<\/p>\n<p>We\u2019ve built our reputation (and authority) by consistently creating high-quality content that people actively seek out. This is evident not only in our authority scores but also in branded searches we receive on Google:<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>This article breaks down seven proven strategies to increase website authority to your domain in 2024.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_81 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#Understanding_Website_Authority_Metrics_Compared\" >Understanding Website Authority (Metrics Compared)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#How_Is_Your_Domains_Website_Authority_Calculated\" >How Is Your Domain\u2019s Website Authority Calculated?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#Semrush_Authority_Score_AS\" >Semrush: Authority Score (AS)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#Moz_Domain_Authority_DA\" >Moz: Domain Authority (DA)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#Ahrefs_Domain_Rating_DR\" >Ahrefs: Domain Rating (DR)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#Whats_a_Good_Authority_Score\" >What\u2019s a Good Authority Score?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#7_Strategies_to_Increase_Website_Authority_for_Your_Domain\" >7 Strategies to Increase Website Authority for Your Domain<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#Strategy_1_Create_Linkable_Assets\" >Strategy #1: Create Linkable Assets<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#Identify_Topics_Journalists_Are_Looking_for\" >Identify Topics Journalists Are Looking for<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#Brainstorm_Industry-Specific_Phrases\" >Brainstorm Industry-Specific Phrases<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#Curate_Existing_Data\" >Curate Existing Data<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#Answer_Search_Intent_Right_Away\" >Answer Search Intent Right Away<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#Strategy_2_Focus_on_Content_Marketing\" >Strategy #2: Focus on Content Marketing<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#Do_Keyword_Research\" >Do Keyword Research<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#Provide_Value_in_Your_Content\" >Provide Value in Your Content<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#Distribute_Your_Content\" >Distribute Your Content<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#Strategy_3_Do_Digital_PR\" >Strategy #3: Do Digital PR<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#Strategy_4_Respond_to_Media_Requests\" >Strategy #4: Respond to Media Requests<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#Find_Journalist_Requests_on_Specialized_Platforms\" >Find Journalist Requests on Specialized Platforms<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#Find_Journalist_Requests_on_X\" >Find Journalist Requests on X<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#Tips_to_Get_Your_Answer_Chosen\" >Tips to Get Your Answer Chosen<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#Strategy_5_Keep_Your_Backlink_Profile_Healthy\" >Strategy #5: Keep Your Backlink Profile Healthy<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#Strategy_6_Improve_User_Experience\" >Strategy #6: Improve User Experience<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#Have_Logical_Site_Architecture\" >Have Logical Site Architecture<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#Optimize_for_Speed\" >Optimize for Speed<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#Conduct_User_Testing\" >Conduct User Testing<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#Optimize_for_Mobile\" >Optimize for Mobile<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#Strategy_7_Build_Backlinks_with_Outreach\" >Strategy #7. Build Backlinks with Outreach<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#Build_Broken_Links\" >Build Broken Links<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#Claim_Unlinked_Mentions\" >Claim Unlinked Mentions<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-31\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#List_Your_Website_in_Relevant_Directories\" >List Your Website in Relevant Directories<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-32\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#Contribute_to_Relevant_Blogs\" >Contribute to Relevant Blogs<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-33\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/07\/05\/how-to-increase-website-authority-7-proven-strategies\/#Ready_to_Increase_Your_Websites_Authority\" >Ready to Increase Your Website\u2019s Authority?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Understanding_Website_Authority_Metrics_Compared\"><\/span>Understanding Website Authority (Metrics Compared)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/tools\/website-authority\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Website authority<\/a> is a concept in SEO that refers to a site\u2019s overall strength and likelihood to rank high in search engine results pages (<a title=\"What Are SERPs &amp; Why Are They Important for SEO?\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/serps\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SERPs<\/a>).<\/p>\n<p>Although not an official Google metric, it\u2019s frequently used in the SEO industry as an indicator of a website\u2019s potential ranking power.<\/p>\n<p>The term Domain Authority is often used interchangeably with website authority. However, Domain Authority (DA) is actually a specific metric developed by <a href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/moz-pro\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Moz<\/a> to predict how likely a website is to rank in search results.<\/p>\n<p>DA is a widely recognized metric. But it\u2019s just one tool\u2019s interpretation of website authority. Other SEO tools like <a href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/semrush\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Semrush<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/ahrefs-guide\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ahrefs<\/a> have their own metrics for measuring website authority. Each with its own unique calculation methods.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<p><strong>To avoid confusion, we\u2019ll use the broader term \u201cwebsite authority\u201d throughout this article.<\/strong> This way, no matter which tool you prefer, you\u2019ll get a clearer understanding of how to assess your website\u2019s reputation and ranking potential.<\/p>\n<div class=\"media\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Is_Your_Domains_Website_Authority_Calculated\"><\/span>How Is Your Domain\u2019s Website Authority Calculated?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The three leading SEO tools\u2014Semrush, Moz, and Ahrefs\u2014each offer metrics for assessing website authority.<\/p>\n<p>While these metrics share similarities, they also have differences in their calculations. Which often results in varying scores for the same website across platforms.<\/p>\n<p>For example, Backlinko\u2019s website authority is 62 in Semrush, 90 in Ahrefs, and 74 in Moz.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>Does this mean that one tool is more accurate than the other?<\/p>\n<p>Not necessarily.<\/p>\n<p>Each tool uses a unique algorithm and dataset, leading to variations in the factors considered and how they are weighted.<\/p>\n<p>For example, all tools consider similar factors, like backlinks. However, they might prioritize them differently. Some might heavily emphasize the quantity of links, while others focus more on link quality.<\/p>\n<p>Additionally, each tool\u2019s dataset of website traffic and backlinks isn\u2019t identical, leading to further variations in calculations.<\/p>\n<p>This is why it\u2019s important to understand how each tool calculates its metric to interpret the scores effectively.<\/p>\n<p>So, let\u2019s break down how each platform approaches website authority:<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Semrush_Authority_Score_AS\"><\/span>Semrush: Authority Score (AS)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Factors considered in AS calculation:<\/p>\n<p>Link quality and quantity<br \/>\nEstimated organic traffic (monthly average visits)<br \/>\nIndicators of manipulation or spam in the link profile<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><a title=\"What is Authority Score?\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/kb\/747-authority-score-backlink-scores\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Semrush\u2019s Authority Score<\/a> is unique in that it factors in both backlink data and organic traffic estimates. This is a more holistic view of your website\u2019s authority. It looks at not only its link profile but also its ability to attract visitors through search.<\/p>\n<p>AS also considers organic traffic at the domain level, weighing in both branded and non-branded traffic.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Moz_Domain_Authority_DA\"><\/span>Moz: Domain Authority (DA)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Factors considered in DA calculation:<\/p>\n<p>Number of unique domains linking to your website<br \/>\nTotal number of backlinks pointing to your site<br \/>\nThe authority and relevance of the linking domains<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>Moz\u2019s Domain Authority primarily focuses on the variety and overall strength of your backlink profile.<\/p>\n<p>In particular, the number of unique domains linking to your website is an important factor in determining your DA score. The more diverse and reputable your referring domains, the higher your authority is likely to be in Moz\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ahrefs_Domain_Rating_DR\"><\/span>Ahrefs: Domain Rating (DR)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Factors considered in DR calculation:<\/p>\n<p>Number of unique websites linking to your website<br \/>\nDomain Rating of referring domains<br \/>\nNumber of linked-to websites<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>Ahref\u2019s Domain Rating measures the strength of a website\u2019s backlink profile. It heavily emphasizes the number of unique referring domains and their respective DRs.<\/p>\n<p>Additionally, DR considers how many other websites a referring domain links to. The fewer outgoing links a referring domain has, the more \u201clink juice\u201d (ranking power) it passes to each individual link. Including the one to your website.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Whats_a_Good_Authority_Score\"><\/span>What\u2019s a Good Authority Score?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>There\u2019s no universal number that defines a \u201cgood\u201d authority score. What\u2019s considered good depends on factors like your industry, competition, and goals.<\/p>\n<p>High website authority (90-100) is often associated with popular, well-established websites like Google, Amazon, and Apple.<\/p>\n<p>If your website has lower authority (10-20), it doesn\u2019t necessarily mean it\u2019s worthless. It\u2019s common for new websites to have a low domain authority. Simply because you haven\u2019t had time to accumulate backlinks and establish your reputation.<\/p>\n<p>A \u201cgood\u201d website authority in a highly competitive industry might be significantly higher than a \u201cgood\u201d authority score in a niche market. For example, if you have an ecommerce website, it doesn\u2019t make sense to compare it to Amazon\u2019s authority.<\/p>\n<p>Instead, benchmark your website\u2019s current authority against your direct competitors. This will give you a clear picture of where you stand and help you set realistic goals for improvement.<\/p>\n<p>Let\u2019s take a look at the keyword \u201chow to choose a wetsuit for surfing\u201d as an example.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>And analyze the top-ranking domains.<\/p>\n<p>Cleanlinesurf.com, the domain that holds the first result, has a website authority score of 28. And a total of 462 unique domains refer to it.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>QuikSilver.com.au is the domain that ranks in the second position for the same keyword. Although it has a higher authority score, fewer domains have linked to it.<\/p>\n<p>In some cases, that\u2019s why a domain with a lower authority score outranks the one with a higher score.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>Use our <a title=\"FREE Website Authority Checker (Any Domain) by Backlinko\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/tools\/website-authority\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">free Website Authority Checker<\/a> to research what level of authority is considered competitive in your industry.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<p><strong>Note:<\/strong> Other factors matter besides authority score and referring domains. These include on-page SEO, engagement, and keyword competition, which all affect rankings.<\/p>\n<div class=\"media\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_Strategies_to_Increase_Website_Authority_for_Your_Domain\"><\/span>7 Strategies to Increase Website Authority for Your Domain<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Here are the seven proven strategies that have worked well for Backlinko. Use them to boost your website\u2019s authority and search engine rankings.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Strategy_1_Create_Linkable_Assets\"><\/span>Strategy #1: Create Linkable Assets<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>One of the most effective ways to earn high-quality backlinks is to create valuable stats or data pages.<\/p>\n<p>Or, as Brian Dean called it, doing <a title=\"How I Built 5,660 Backlinks in 30 Days [New Strategy]\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/reverse-outreach\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">reverse outreach<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>These pages act as linkable assets, providing bloggers, journalists, and other content creators with reliable data to reference and cite.<\/p>\n<p>Stats pages have been one of our core strategies as well.<\/p>\n<p>As the graphic below shows, 32.17% of the websites linking to us with high-quality backlinks do so because of our stats pages. Even though these pages make up only 16% of our published content.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>Why does it work?<\/p>\n<p>For one, stats pages position your website as a source of expertise and credible information.<\/p>\n<p>Reporters and bloggers often need data to back up their stories. Finding your page can be like finding a treasure trove for them.<\/p>\n<p>And when these reporters and bloggers cite your data, you naturally earn backlinks. Which is a crucial component of improving your website\u2019s authority.<\/p>\n<p>For example, one of our stats pages, <a title=\"Twitch Usage and Growth Statistics: How Many People Use Twitch?\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/twitch-users\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Twitch Growth Stats<\/a>, earned 1.3K backlinks from 457 domains.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>And a link from Forbes Home, showing its value as a linkable asset.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><a title=\"Exploding Topics\" href=\"https:\/\/explodingtopics.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Exploding Topics<\/a>, the platform that provides stats on rapidly growing topics, has more than 1.7 million backlinks.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>And its Authority Score increased from 53 to 60 in the last 12 months.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>But it doesn\u2019t just work for a B2B website. <a title=\"CookUnity\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cookunity.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">CookUnity<\/a>, a food delivery company, is a great example of this.<\/p>\n<p>The company published a stats page about what percentage of Americans are vegan. Which has generated 658 backlinks to date:<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>And its AS increased from 44 to 48 in the last 12 months:<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>Here\u2019s how to do it:<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Identify_Topics_Journalists_Are_Looking_for\"><\/span>Identify Topics Journalists Are Looking for<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>The first step is to identify the topics that journalists and bloggers need stats and data for.<\/p>\n<p>These aren\u2019t the typical keywords your customers search for. Your target audience might be interested in your products or services. However, journalists and bloggers are looking for data that supports their articles and reports.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Analyse Your Competitors<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>One of the best ways to find journalist keywords is to analyze your competitors\u2019 backlinks.<\/p>\n<p>Enter your competitor\u2019s domain in Semrush\u2019s <a title=\"Domain Overview: Get Instant Domain SEO Analysis\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/analytics\/overview\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Domain Overview<\/a> tool. And click \u201c<strong>Search<\/strong>.\u201d<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>Click the number of backlinks to analyze all your backlinks.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>Then scroll down to the Backlinks tab, which shows you the list of the backlinks this domain has. Go through this list to discover the pages that have been linked to the most.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>Repeat this process using other competitor\u2019s domains.<\/p>\n<p>If you have an established website with content that has earned backlinks, analyze your domain in the same way.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Look at Your New Content<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>We also look at our new content and see if there\u2019s an opportunity for us to cover that with our statistics article.<\/p>\n<p>For example, we recently published an article on <a title=\"16 Key Affiliate Marketing Statistics\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/affiliate-marketing-statistics\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">affiliate marketing statistics<\/a> to enter the affiliate marketing space and earn backlinks.<\/p>\n<p>A quick Semrush analysis shows that this article already earned 90 backlinks from 50 unique domains:<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><strong>Follow Industry Trends<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>We also create stats pages based on the topics that are trending.<\/p>\n<p>For example, our <a title=\"TikTok Statistics You Need to Know\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/tiktok-users\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">TikTok statistics<\/a> article was very timely when we published in response to discussions about the influence of TikTok in the US.<\/p>\n<p>Since TikTok was a hot topic, a lot of people found our article relevant and linked to it. This article has earned 5.9K backlinks from 2.4K referring domains.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>And a lot of these backlinks are from domains with high authority scores. Such as Forbes, Exploding Topics, Autoweek, NewYorker:<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Brainstorm_Industry-Specific_Phrases\"><\/span>Brainstorm Industry-Specific Phrases<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>In addition, brainstorm industry-specific phrases. Think about the types of questions journalists might ask about your industry or niche. For example:<\/p>\n<p>How many food delivery companies are there in the US?<br \/>\nHow often do Americans travel internationally?<br \/>\n2024 trends in smart home devices<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Curate_Existing_Data\"><\/span>Curate Existing Data<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Once you know what kind of data journalists are seeking, gather relevant information.<\/p>\n<p>You don\u2019t always need to conduct original research. In many cases, you can curate data from reliable sources. Such as:<\/p>\n<p><strong>Government agencies:<\/strong> E.g., <a title=\"Census Bureau\" href=\"https:\/\/www.census.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Census Bureau<\/a>, <a title=\"Bureau of Labor Statistics\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bureau of Labor Statistics<\/a>, <a title=\"National Institutes of Health\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nih.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">National Institutes of Health<\/a><br \/>\n<strong>Industry associations:<\/strong> Many industry groups publish reports and statistics relevant to their field<br \/>\n<strong>Research firms:<\/strong> Companies like Gartner, Forrester, and Pew Research Center conduct extensive studies that can be a goldmine for data<br \/>\n<strong>Reputable news sources:<\/strong> Articles from major news outlets often cite statistics that you can use<br \/>\n<strong>Academic journals:<\/strong> If your topic is more academic, explore academic publications for relevant data<\/p>\n<p>When you\u2019re curating data, ensure that it comes from trustworthy sources with a solid reputation.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>And always cite the data to the original source to maintain transparency and avoid plagiarism.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Answer_Search_Intent_Right_Away\"><\/span>Answer Search Intent Right Away<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>You have the keyword. And the data. So, when you draft the stats page, make sure to frontload the value of your page by getting straight to the point.<\/p>\n<p>Keep the introductory text brief, then deliver the most relevant statistic as high up on the page as possible.<\/p>\n<p>In our <a title=\"30 Crucial B2B Marketing Statistics\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/b2b-marketing-stats\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">B2B Marketing Stats<\/a> article, you can see that we provide the statistic high up in the section and then cover the context.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>This ensures that journalists and bloggers can quickly find the data they\u2019re seeking without having to scroll through the entire article.<\/p>\n<p>Follow up with additional, related statistics that complement the main question but don\u2019t directly answer it.<\/p>\n<p>This keeps your content concise and focused while still offering additional value to readers.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Strategy_2_Focus_on_Content_Marketing\"><\/span>Strategy #2: Focus on Content Marketing<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Publishing high-quality content that ranks well in search engines is another great way to attract backlinks. And increase website authority for your domain.<\/p>\n<p>This strategy aligns perfectly with how Semrush calculates Authority Score.<\/p>\n<p>Specifically, high organic traffic indicates that your content is ranking well and meeting Google\u2019s quality standards. Both of which are positive signals for authority.<\/p>\n<p>Plus, valuable content that ranks high is more likely to be seen and shared by other websites, naturally earning you backlinks.<\/p>\n<p>Backlinko is an excellent example of this. We focus on creating content that provides value to our readers, attracting 1 million monthly organic traffic. And has earned over 2.3 million backlinks.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>How to do it:<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_Keyword_Research\"><\/span>Do Keyword Research<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><a title=\"Keyword Research for SEO: The Definitive Guide + Template\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/keyword-research\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Keyword research<\/a> is the cornerstone of successful content marketing.<\/p>\n<p>But it\u2019s not just getting a bunch of keywords from a tool. It\u2019s about understanding broader patterns and aligning your strategy with proven demand.<\/p>\n<p>Let\u2019s say you run a meal delivery service. A quick <a title=\"Semrush analysis\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/analytics\/organic\/pages\/?sortField=&amp;sortDirection=desc&amp;db=us&amp;q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cookunity.com%2F&amp;searchType=domain\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Semrush analysis<\/a> of your top competitor, CookUnity reveals the following:<\/p>\n<p><strong>Focus on informational search intent:<\/strong> Most of CookUnity\u2019s organically trafficked pages are informational blog articles (after navigational pages). This indicates a focus on targeting users seeking information and solutions rather than just those ready to purchase.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><strong>Question-based keywords:<\/strong> Many of their top keywords are phrased as questions. Such as \u201cis quinoa keto friendly\u201d and \u201cwhat cereals are gluten-free.\u201d<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><strong>Content pillars:<\/strong> Their content strategy centers around pillars like \u201cgluten-free,\u201d \u201cketo,\u201d and \u201cvegan.\u201d This allows them to establish authority in these niche areas and cater to the specific needs of those audiences.<\/p>\n<p>Once you\u2019ve identified your competitors\u2019 successful strategies (like their focus on a certain search intent, keyword type, and specific content pillars), use a keyword research tool to find relevant terms to target in your content.<\/p>\n<p>For example, if you decide to have \u201cgluten-free\u201d as one of your <a title=\"Pillar Pages: How to Create One + Examples\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/pillar-pages\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">content pillars<\/a>, enter that keyword in <a title=\"Keyword Generator by Semrush\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/analytics\/keywordmagic\/start\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Semrush\u2019s Keyword Magic<\/a> tool.<\/p>\n<p>Select your target region in the drop-down menu and click \u201c<strong>Search<\/strong>.\u201d<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>You\u2019ll see hundreds of thousands of keywords you can possibly target in your content.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>Go through this list and select any keywords that you\u2019d like to create content around. Then click \u201cAdd to keyword list.\u201d<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>Name your list (e.g., Gluten-free to reflect your content pillar and organize your keywords based on their themes).<\/p>\n<p>To review your list, navigate to the Keyword Strategy Builder from the left side menu and select your list from the \u201cKeyword list.\u201d<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>You\u2019ll see all the keywords you saved in this list with their respective keyword metrics like search volume and keyword difficulty.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Provide_Value_in_Your_Content\"><\/span>Provide Value in Your Content<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Once you have your target keywords, focus on creating content that truly delivers value to your audience.<\/p>\n<p>This means going beyond surface-level information and providing in-depth, comprehensive, and actionable content.<\/p>\n<p>You can do so by:<\/p>\n<p>Addressing your audience\u2019s pain points (like \u201cgluten-free bread recipe\u201d)<br \/>\nAnswering your readers\u2019 questions (like \u201cis rice gluten-free?\u201d)<br \/>\nOffering unique insights or solutions (like \u201cgluten-free substitutions for traditional baking ingredients\u201d)<\/p>\n<p>According to Google\u2019s <a title=\"What creators should know about Google&#039;s helpful content update | Google Search Central Blog\" href=\"https:\/\/developers.google.com\/search\/blog\/2022\/08\/helpful-content-update\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">helpful content update<\/a>, high-quality content should demonstrate experience, expertise, authoritativeness, and trustworthiness (<a title=\"Google E-E-A-T: How to Create People-First Content (+ Free Audit)\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/google-e-e-a-t\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">E-E-A-T<\/a>).<\/p>\n<p>This means showcasing first-hand experience or knowledge, providing accurate and reliable information, and establishing yourself as a credible source in your niche.<\/p>\n<p>Take a look at this article from Good Housekeeping sharing expert tips from pros about <a title=\"How to Start Running: Expert Tips for Beginners\" href=\"https:\/\/www.goodhousekeeping.com\/health\/fitness\/a42804109\/how-to-start-running\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">how to start running<\/a>. By collaborating with running professionals, this article demonstrates E-E-A-T:<\/p>\n<p><strong>Expertise:<\/strong> The information in this article comes directly from professionals with extensive knowledge and experience in the running field<br \/>\n<strong>Experience:<\/strong> The professional gives tips to running beginners based on her own experience as a runner and coach<br \/>\n<strong>Authoritativeness:<\/strong> Good Housekeeping is a well-established publication known for its reliable advice<br \/>\n<strong>Trustworthiness:<\/strong> The article cites specific credentials of the expert (like the profession of their expert\u2014Track and Field Olympian), building trust with the reader<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>Remember to keep your content up-to-date and continue to provide value to your readers. So, regularly update your existing content with fresh information and insights to maintain its relevance in the eyes of both your audience and search engines.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Distribute_Your_Content\"><\/span>Distribute Your Content<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Creating great content is only the beginning. To maximize its impact, you need to distribute it effectively.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s how to do it:<\/p>\n<p><strong>Use multiple channels:<\/strong> Share your content across various platforms like social media, email newsletters, industry forums, podcasts, and YouTube. Each platform reaches a different audience segment. For example, we actively share our content with our newsletter subscribers:<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><strong>Repurpose for different formats:<\/strong> Transform your blog posts into YouTube videos, social media snippets, or podcast episodes<br \/>\n<strong>Engage and interact:<\/strong> Respond to comments, questions, and feedback you get on social media and review sites to foster a community around your content<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Strategy_3_Do_Digital_PR\"><\/span>Strategy #3: Do Digital PR<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Digital PR is a strategy that uses online channels to increase brand awareness, build relationships, and earn valuable backlinks. It involves creating newsworthy content and promoting it to journalists, bloggers, and other online influencers.<\/p>\n<p>One highly effective approach to digital PR is using the \u201cbe the source\u201d approach. This involves doing original research, surveys, or studies that generate interesting and unique data. This data should attract attention from publications and websites looking to cite credible sources in their content.<\/p>\n<p>However, it\u2019s important to be realistic. Simply hiring a PR firm that promises to feature you in major news publications doesn\u2019t guarantee results.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<p>\u201cI ended up choosing a PR firm that promised the moon: major media mentions. Features in business magazines. They even said they could get me interviewed on TV. But after spending over $5k with this firm, and waiting months for results, I came away empty-handed. The PR firm provided literally zero mentions or links.\u201d \u2013 <strong>Brian Dean<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"media\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>In order for journals and news publications to feature you, you need to do something interesting.<\/p>\n<p>But how do regular businesses generate buzz? Not just those with revolutionary products or services.<\/p>\n<p>One of the most effective strategies is to create original studies or surveys that provide valuable data and insights.<\/p>\n<p>In other words, be the source of unique, interesting data. Then reach out to relevant publications and news outlets to share your data.<\/p>\n<p>As Brian Dean recalls, Backlinko\u2019s authority and traffic massively grew when he published his first industry study.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>Brian even calls this post a game-changer for him and his business.<\/p>\n<p>This industry study post is \u201c<a title=\"We Analyzed 11.8 Million Google Search Results. Here\u2019s Wh...\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/search-engine-ranking\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">We Analyzed 1 Million Google Search Results. Here\u2019s What We Learned About SEO<\/a>.\u201d<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<p>\u201cAll of a sudden I was getting links from authoritative marketing and business blogs, like HubSpot, AmericanExpress.com, Intercom, Alexa, and Social Media Today. And it wasn\u2019t just links. My site was getting entire FEATURES on major media outlets, like The Next Web, Entrepreneur, and TechCrunch. All of these links and mentions led to a massive spike in traffic. A spike that really never died down. All of those off-page SEO signals, like backlinks and mentions on respected websites, changed how Google viewed my site.\u201d \u2013 <strong>Brian Dean<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"media\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Strategy_4_Respond_to_Media_Requests\"><\/span>Strategy #4: Respond to Media Requests<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Journalists often seek expert opinions, data, and quotes to add credibility and depth to their stories.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Find_Journalist_Requests_on_Specialized_Platforms\"><\/span>Find Journalist Requests on Specialized Platforms<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Use platforms like <a title=\"Featured\" href=\"http:\/\/featured.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Featured<\/a> and <a title=\"Help a B2B Writer\" href=\"http:\/\/helpab2bwriter.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Help a B2B Writer<\/a> to discover journalist queries.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>When you find a question that is relevant to your expertise, answer it. Reporters then choose the best answers and feature their authors on media sites.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Find_Journalist_Requests_on_X\"><\/span>Find Journalist Requests on X<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Another way to find journalist requests is through X (formerly Twitter).<\/p>\n<p>Open your X account and click \u201c<strong>Explore<\/strong>\u201d in the left side menu.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>Type the hashtag #JournoRequest in the search bar and click \u201c<strong>Search for #JournoRequest<\/strong>.\u201d<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>The results will show you the combination of \u201cPeople\u201d (accounts with the phrase \u201cjourno requests\u201d in them) and the posts. Click \u201c<strong>Latest<\/strong>\u201d to filter out the latest posts with this hashtag.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>Here you\u2019ll see all the posts with the hashtag JournoRequests in them sorted by their posting time.<\/p>\n<p>Click the comment icon under the post.<\/p>\n<p>Type your reply in the pop-up box and click \u201c<strong>Reply<\/strong>.\u201d<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Tips_to_Get_Your_Answer_Chosen\"><\/span>Tips to Get Your Answer Chosen<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Here are a few tips that can get you the best chances at getting your answer chosen:<\/p>\n<p><strong>Be responsive:<\/strong> Reply to queries as quickly as you can, because journalists often work under tight deadlines<br \/>\n<strong>Provide value:<\/strong> Offer detailed, insightful answers that go beyond the basics and show your first-hand expertise. Share unique data, personal experiences, and expert opinions.<br \/>\n<strong>Be clear and concise:<\/strong> Get to the point quickly. Journalists appreciate clear, concise answers that are easy to understand and quote.<br \/>\n<strong>Follow instructions:<\/strong> Pay close attention to the journalist\u2019s specific questions and requirements<br \/>\n<strong>Include your credentials:<\/strong> Briefly mention your relevant experience and qualifications to establish credibility<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Strategy_5_Keep_Your_Backlink_Profile_Healthy\"><\/span>Strategy #5: Keep Your Backlink Profile Healthy<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Building quality backlinks is a long-term process. It requires time, effort, and well-thought-out strategy.<\/p>\n<p>While high-quality backlinks help increase your authority, low-quality or spammy backlinks can harm your site\u2019s reputation. And, ultimately, its ranking potential.<\/p>\n<p>A good, high-quality backlink is one that comes from a reputable, relevant website with high authority. It should also be naturally placed link to your content because it provides value to their audience.<\/p>\n<p>So, what do you do to keep your backlink profile healthy?<\/p>\n<p>First, focus on earning links from real, authoritative websites that are relevant to your niche. Ideally, you\u2019d want to get referral traffic from these links as well. But the primary goal is to build credibility in the eyes of search engines.<\/p>\n<p>And second, avoid bad backlinks. Bad backlinks are links from websites that are considered low-quality, irrelevant, or spammy. These can include:<\/p>\n<p><strong>Links from penalized or low-authority websites:<\/strong> These sites often have a history of spammy tactics or poor content, which can reflect negatively on your site<br \/>\n<strong>Irrelevant links:<\/strong> Backlinks from websites that have nothing to do with your industry or niche can be seen as unnatural and manipulative<br \/>\n<strong>Paid links:<\/strong> Buying or selling links is against <a title=\"Spam Policies for Google Web Search | Google Search Central | Documentation\" href=\"https:\/\/developers.google.com\/search\/docs\/essentials\/spam-policies#link-spam\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Google\u2019s Guidelines<\/a> and can result in penalties<br \/>\n<strong>Links from link farms or <a title=\"Private Blog Networks (PBNs): What Are They &amp; Do They Work?\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/blog\/private-blog-network\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">private blog networks<\/a> (PBNs):<\/strong> These are networks of websites created solely to manipulate search rankings<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Strategy_6_Improve_User_Experience\"><\/span>Strategy #6: Improve User Experience<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>A website that\u2019s easy to navigate and provides a seamless user experience is more likely to attract and retain visitors.<\/p>\n<p>Search engines like Google also recognize the importance of user experience (UX) and factor it into their rankings.<\/p>\n<p>A positive UX leads to longer visit durations and lower bounce rates. This signals to search engines that your site is valuable.<\/p>\n<p>Plus, a user-friendly website is more likely to be shared and linked to by other websites, naturally increasing your backlink profile.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s what to do to improve your website\u2019s UX:<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Have_Logical_Site_Architecture\"><\/span>Have Logical Site Architecture<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Organize your website\u2019s content in a hierarchical structure that makes sense to users. This involves having a clear main menu, categories, subcategories, and individual pages.<\/p>\n<p>For example, we structured our guides based on their categories. So if you\u2019re looking for a guide about link building, you\u2019ll see relevant articles under that category.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>A well-organized site makes it easier for users to find what they\u2019re looking for and encourages them to explore more pages.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Optimize_for_Speed\"><\/span>Optimize for Speed<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>A slow-loading website can frustrate users, causing them to leave before they even engage with your content.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/pagespeed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Optimizing your website for speed<\/a>, you\u2019ll create a better user experience, encourage visitors to stay longer, and potentially boost your search rankings.<\/p>\n<p>Use <a title=\"PageSpeed Insights\" href=\"https:\/\/pagespeed.web.dev\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Google PageSpeed Insights<\/a> to identify the issues that are slowing down your website.<\/p>\n<p>Then, work on solving them.<\/p>\n<p>This might involve reducing image sizes or minimizing code.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conduct_User_Testing\"><\/span>Conduct User Testing<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Understanding how people actually use your website is key to improving their experience.<\/p>\n<p>Use tools like <a title=\"Hotjar\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hotjar.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Hotjar<\/a> to analyze how users interact with your website. Hotjar lets you to see where visitors click, scroll. And even where they get stuck, frustrated, or confused.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>This allows you to pinpoint specific pages or elements that need improvement.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Optimize_for_Mobile\"><\/span>Optimize for Mobile<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>The <a title=\"Internet Traffic from Mobile Devices\" href=\"https:\/\/explodingtopics.com\/blog\/mobile-internet-traffic\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">majority of web traffic<\/a> comes from mobile devices.<\/p>\n<p>So, make sure your website adapts to different screen sizes and provides a seamless experience on smartphones and tablets.<\/p>\n<p>Check your website from a mobile device:<\/p>\n<p>Do images fit the screen without being cut or distorted?<br \/>\nIs the text big enough to read without having to zoom in?<br \/>\nAre buttons and links easy to tap with your thumb?<\/p>\n<p>If the answer to any of the questions above is no, optimize your web design until it\u2019s smooth to use on mobile devices.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Strategy_7_Build_Backlinks_with_Outreach\"><\/span>Strategy #7. Build Backlinks with Outreach<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The strategies we\u2019ve covered so far are the most powerful ways to build backlinks and increase domain authority today.<\/p>\n<p>But they\u2019re not the only options.<\/p>\n<p>Here are a few more tactics that have worked well in the past. And are still helpful today.<\/p>\n<p>While not as impactful as our top recommendations, these methods still help you get more links and strengthen your online presence.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Build_Broken_Links\"><\/span>Build Broken Links<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><a title=\"Broken Link Building: The Complete Guide\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/broken-link-building\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Broken link building<\/a> is the process of finding broken links on other websites (links that lead to a 404 error page) and suggesting your content as a replacement.<\/p>\n<p>This is a win-win situation, as you\u2019re helping the website owner fix an issue while gaining a potential backlink.<\/p>\n<p>One of the best ways to find broken links is by using Semrush\u2019s <a title=\"Backlink Analytics\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/analytics\/backlinks\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Backlink Analytics<\/a> tool.<\/p>\n<p>Enter one of your competitor\u2019s domains in the tool and click \u201c<strong>Analyze<\/strong>.\u201d<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>Go to \u201c<strong>Indexed Pages<\/strong>\u201d and select the \u201c<strong>Broken Pages<\/strong>\u201d filter.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>Here you\u2019ll see the list of broken pages of your competitor.<\/p>\n<p>Locate the broken page (in the \u201cTitle and URL\u201d column) that\u2019s most relevant to the page on your website you\u2019d like to get linked.<\/p>\n<p>Click the number in the \u201cBacklinks\u201d or \u201cDomains\u201d column to see where that page appears.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>You\u2019ll see the list of pages that refer to your competitor\u2019s broken page.<\/p>\n<p>Visit these websites. And reach out to these website owners via the email or contact form on their site to ask them to replace the broken link with your link.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Claim_Unlinked_Mentions\"><\/span>Claim Unlinked Mentions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Sometimes, websites might mention your brand or content without linking to you.<\/p>\n<p>Enter your brand name in the free <a title=\"Google Alerts\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/alerts\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Google Alerts<\/a> tool. And click \u201c<strong>Create Alert<\/strong>.\u201d<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>Now, every time someone mentions your brand online, you\u2019ll get an alert via email.<\/p>\n<p>And if they haven\u2019t included a backlink to your website, reach out and ask them to do so.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"List_Your_Website_in_Relevant_Directories\"><\/span>List Your Website in Relevant Directories<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>If you have a local business, create listings on online directories like <a title=\"Yelp\" href=\"https:\/\/www.yelp.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Yelp<\/a> (best for local businesses) and <a title=\"Tripadvisor\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tripadvisor.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Tripadvisor<\/a> (best for travel-related businesses).<\/p>\n<p>These directories help improve your local SEO and visibility, making it easier for potential customers in your area to find you online.<\/p>\n<p>Plus, it\u2019s an easy way to get backlinks.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Contribute_to_Relevant_Blogs\"><\/span>Contribute to Relevant Blogs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><a title=\"Guest Blogging: The Definitive Guide\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/the-definitive-guide-to-guest-blogging\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Guest blogging<\/a> is when you write and publish articles on other websites or blogs in your industry.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s a mutually beneficial exchange. You gain exposure to a new audience and a valuable backlink to your site. And the host blog gets fresh content from a knowledgeable source.<\/p>\n<p>While guest blogging isn\u2019t as powerful as it once was, it\u2019s still a tool for earning relevant backlinks.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<p><a title=\"So Many SEOs Just Don&#039;t Know Guest Post Links Should Be Nofollowed According To Google\" href=\"https:\/\/www.seroundtable.com\/guest-post-links-nofollow-google-34472.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Google says<\/a> that backlinks from guest posts should be <a title=\"What Is a Nofollow Link? Here\u2019s A Simple Plain English Answer\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/nofollow-link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">nofollow<\/a>. So, their value is mainly for brand awareness and referral traffic. Although it\u2019s not uncommon for marketers to ignore this guidance.<\/p>\n<div class=\"media\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>To get the most out of guest blogging, focus on quality over quantity. Look for highly relevant, industry-specific, and reputable blogs with engaged audiences. And provide high-quality, original content that delivers genuine value to their readers.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ready_to_Increase_Your_Websites_Authority\"><\/span>Ready to Increase Your Website\u2019s Authority?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Increasing website authority takes time and effort. But the rewards are well worth it. Like higher rankings, more organic traffic, increased brand credibility, and <strong>a real shot at higher revenue<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>Carefully review the seven strategies in this article. It might seem like a lot to take in, so start by picking one or two strategies max.<\/p>\n<p>Focus on making consistent progress for the next six months. Go deep within each strategy and experiment with different approaches.<\/p>\n<p>While your website\u2019s authority is important, it\u2019s just one piece of the SEO game. Google considers hundreds of factors when ranking your website.<\/p>\n<p>So be sure to read our post about <a title=\"Google\u2019s 200 ranking factors\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/google-ranking-factors\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Google\u2019s 200 ranking factors<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>The post <a href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/increase-domain-authority\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">How to Increase Website Authority (7 Proven Strategies)<\/a> appeared first on <a href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Backlinko<\/a>.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Since Backlinko\u2019s launch in 2012, we\u2019ve experimented with countless tactics to build website authority. Some successful. Others not so much. We\u2019ve built our reputation (and authority) by consistently creating high-quality content that people actively seek out. This is evident not only in our authority scores but also in branded searches we receive on Google: This article breaks down seven proven strategies to increase website authority to your domain in 2024. Understanding Website Authority (Metrics Compared) Website authority is a concept in SEO that refers to a [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":0,"featured_media":10448,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"h5ap_radio_sources":[],"cybocfi_hide_featured_image":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[8],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-10447","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-backlinko"],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/gsc-perfomance-top-queries-DU9I2q-600x400.png","featured_image_src_square":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/gsc-perfomance-top-queries-DU9I2q-600x600.png","author_info":{"display_name":false,"author_link":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/author\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10447","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=10447"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10447\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/10448"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=10447"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=10447"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=10447"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}