Web Writing 101: Attain Inbound Links by Networking in Online Communities

Posted by Lima Al-Azzeh Nov 20, 2008

Last time, we talked about how to write interesting articles in order to attain inbound links and increase traffic to your articles. Another useful method to attaining these links is by creating a relationship with other writers and bloggers.

As our SEO Manager Marc Bitanga says, “ You need allies when trying to create inbound links or buzz about your articles.” Creating a positive buzz about your work is simply a matter of creating a network of friends and acquaintances who value your work and would be happy to recommend you to others. There are a few simple ways to do this:

1) The first link building strategy is to leave comments on blog posts. If you subscribe to a particular blog that you feel has relevance to your article, don’t be afraid to write a comment along the lines of “Hey, this post is great. I wrote a similar article to it that your readers may find helpful (add link).” An even better way to do this is to leave a comment that refers specifically to an interesting item in the blog post. This will show the blogger that you have read, understood, and shown interest in their work so they may feel better about supporting you and your work in return.

2) “Another link building strategy”, says Marc, “is to reach out and contact bloggers via email to tell them about your article. Possibly asking them to do a blog post reviewing your article. It is best to do this after you have established a rapport and communication with that blogger.”

For more resources on networking in online communities check out these blogs:

Guy Kawasaki- How to Suck Up to a Blogger

Performancing.com- Networking for Blog (Article) Success