What are Backlinks?
Backlinks, also known as “inbound links” or “incoming links,” are created when one website links to another. They are vital in Search Engine Optimization (SEO) as they signify the content’s credibility and usefulness. For local brands, they not only boost general SEO efforts but also play a crucial role in local SEO, directly impacting local search rankings. Leveraging backlinks in your SEO strategy will have a direct and positive impact on your local search presence.
Importance of Backlinks in Local SEO
Backlinks from credible sources can significantly enhance a local brand’s visibility and authenticity. They help in asserting the geographical location and relevance of the business, making it more likely to appear in local search queries. A strong local backlink profile ensures higher rankings in local search results, leading to increased foot traffic and localized online visibility.
Keep in mind that there are many factors that affect a backlinks’ quality, and a well-crafted backlink speaks volumes about your website’s credibility and relevance.
- Domain Authority (DA): Think of a backlink as a vote of confidence. A vote from a website with substantial domain authority is like an endorsement from a VIP in your industry. A backlink from a higher DA site will be more impactful and significantly boosts your site’s credibility.
- Relevancy: Context is key. A backlink from a site that resonates with your industry or topic acts like a beacon, signaling the relevance and enhancing the trustworthiness of your content to search engines and users alike.
- Link Equity: A backlink can either be dofollow and nofollow link. Dofollow links pass link juice aka link equity that will boost your SEO value, whereas nofollow links do not but can still have some additional SEO value. Both link types reflect a genuine and organic reach.
- Anchor Text: The art of anchor text lies in its ability to be descriptive yet concise. It should reflect the core of what your content is about. Utilizing relevant keywords improves search engine recognition.
In the grand scheme of SEO, not all backlinks are given equal weight. At ZGM, our link-building team is focus on the quality and relevance of each backlink to ensure your website takes center stage.
Different Types of Backlinks
Local News and Media Outlets
Local news and media outlets are goldmines to obtaining local backlinks. They are trusted sources within the community and can drive significant local traffic as well as boost local relevance in search results.
Topical Backlinks
These are links from websites in the same industry or niche. Topical backlinks are particularly valuable as they come from sources with similar content and audience, establishing your business’s relevance and authority in your specific field.
Local Citations
Mentions of your business’s name, address, and phone number (NAP) on other webpages, even without a direct link, are known as local citations. They are crucial for local SEO as they help search engines verify the accuracy and relevance of your business in geo-focused searches.
Tools and Coupons
Offering tools or coupons can serve as an incentive for local websites to link back to your business. These can be resources specific to your industry or community, fostering a sense of local support and engagement – and who doesn’t love a way to save money!?
Benefits of Backlinks for Local SEO
Backlinks are a cornerstone of local SEO, driving enhanced visibility and credibility in local search results. By acquiring backlinks from reputable local sources, businesses can significantly boost their domain authority and rank higher in targeted local queries. From increased organic traffic to fostering community engagement, there are so many benefits to obtaining local backlinks.
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Increased Domain Authority and Search Rankings
Backlinks from reputable local sources can significantly boost your website’s domain authority, leading to higher search rankings and increased credibility.
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Improved Visibility in Google Maps and Positive Reviews
A robust backlink profile helps improve your visibility in local map searches, often the first point of contact for local consumers. Positive reviews and ratings, often linked back to your site, further enhance trust and visibility.
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Increased Search Volume and Targeted Traffic
Effective backlinking not only increases overall traffic but ensures that the traffic is targeted and relevant, driven by genuine local interest and search intent.
Link-Building Strategies for Local SEO
To build a strong local backlink portfolio, start by identifying your real competitors through tools like BrightLocal’s Local Search Grid. Collect and categorize backlinks for you and from your competitors, focusing on localized link-building opportunities.
Once your link opportunities are obtained, leverage SEO tools like Ricketyroo to help categorize your link list by link type vs. competitors, a.k.a. link benchmarking. Analyze the data to understand your competitors’ strategies and identify opportunities for outreach. Finally, prioritize acquiring links that fill in the gaps in your local backlink portfolio.
Time to Prioritize Local Backlinks
Local backlinks are a critical element in a diverse backlink portfolio for local brands. They not only improve local search rankings and domain authority but also drive targeted traffic and foster positive community engagement. As suggested by insights from MozCon and ongoing industry research, focusing on local links and a diverse backlink strategy, rather than solely on quantity or domain authority, is key to outperforming competitors.
Look to ZGM for Local SEO Strategies
Ready to boost your local brand’s online presence? Zero Gravity Marketing (ZGM) offers comprehensive local SEO strategies, including building a robust backlink portfolio tailored to your brand’s needs. Discover more about how our full-service digital marketing agency can enhance your local search rankings and drive targeted traffic to your site. Start your journey towards local prominence today!
