One of the key aims of our major search engines is to give its viewers the most relevant response to their query. That’s why they work so hard in weeding out low-quality websites, spammy content and link spam. Link spam is essentially content crammed with lots of low-quality links, to try and elevate a search engine ranking super fast. So, what are examples of link spam and what can you do to avoid it?
Different types of Link Spam
Comment Box Links
This is one I am sure you are familiar with. You read a blog post on a website or forum in Reddit, and notice irrelevant comments that have no bearing on the subject and are pushing you to click a link. How do these kinds of commentary links boost the other link’s website? Basically, they are there to make the reader curious and try to direct them to the spam link builder’s content. Many companies regularly use link spam to try and decrease their competitor’s search engine rankings.
Backlink Spam
Sometimes other online businesses will try to leverage their ranking by placing links on their pages that link to your content. You’ll find that usually their website is totally irrelevant to yours and the user will not receive any value from the redirection. But it may assist in search engine optimization for the other party. Some businesses buy or sell links for ranking purposes, or try to exchange with you in a ‘do it for me and I will do it for you’ scenario. Focus on organic acquisitions of links, rather than cross-linking unethically. You can start your journey on safe acquisition of links at https://digitalwhitelabels.com/
Spammy Content
Some companies will use automated processes to create links to other sites purely for SEO purposes. Have you ever read an article that is brimming with links to random places with anchor text that doesn’t flow within the context of the article? This is not only lazy content writing, but can eventually affect the ranking of the website. The search engine algorithms prefer naturally earned links, along with anchor text that makes sense. TIP: when creating content, use targeted keywords but ensure you use a quality content creation expert to flow anchor text links seamlessly into the blog.
The next steps
Now that you understand a little more about link spam and what it is, how do you work to build links and content which avoids link spamming. And how do you know if unethical businesses are linking back to you to benefit themselves? Firstly, use white hat tactics to acquire links with a reputable, professional agency. Secondly, focus on creating high-quality content on your website to attract natural backlinks, sharing of content and to build your online presence and ranking in Google. Finally, it’s important to conduct a link audit — this is complex, but will help you see what and who are linking back to you. Tap into the expertise of a digital marketing agency to start the process. Read more