In the world of local SEO, the question isn’t whether link building is important—it’s how much time and effort you’re dedicating to it. With algorithms constantly evolving, the competitive edge in local search comes down to one thing: high-quality, relevant links.
We gathered insights from top experts in local SEO to dive deep into what’s working today for local businesses. From outreach strategies to understanding which links carry the most value, here’s a breakdown of what you need to know.
Why Link Building Matters More Than Ever
According to 25% of local SEO experts, links are more important to local search rankings than they were last year. This isn’t just speculation; it’s rooted in the ongoing changes to Google’s algorithm, particularly updates like Possum and Hawk, which made proximity and quality signals (like backlinks) critical ranking factors.
As Marcus Miller from Bowler Hat said, "Link building needs to be part of your local SEO strategy if you want to compete. It's the competitive differentiator in many markets today."
Link building not only boosts your search engine ranking, but it also drives relevant traffic and establishes your business as an authority in the local community.
What Are the Most Effective Link Building Strategies?
Our experts shared the top three strategies for acquiring high-quality local links:
Sponsoring Local Charities or Events – Sponsorships are a fantastic way to get involved with your community and secure backlinks from reputable local sites.
Requesting Existing Links – Reach out to partners, vendors, and satisfied customers to ask for a link. If they mention your business already, it’s a natural win.
Creating Local Resources – Develop valuable content that serves the local audience, like guides or blog posts that speak to their needs. When people share your content, those backlinks roll in.
"It’s not just about the number of links, but the quality," notes Gyi Tsakalakis of AttorneySync. "Getting backlinks from geographically and topically relevant sources is the real game-changer."
What Links Carry the Most Value?
When it comes to boosting your local SEO, not all links are created equal. Experts agree that the most valuable backlinks come from:
Community Websites – These hyper-local sites give Google the signal that your business is deeply rooted in the area.
Local News & Content Sites – Articles or mentions in local media not only provide visibility but are also a goldmine for high-authority links.
High Domain Authority Sites – Securing links from sites with strong domain authority can be tough but rewarding.
"Your first priority should be to focus on links that not only improve your SEO but also have the potential to bring referral traffic. That’s where the real value is," says Joy Hawkins of Sterling Sky.
The Challenges of Link Building in 2024
Here’s the harsh reality: link building is getting harder. In fact, 35% of experts believe it will become even more difficult this year. Why? Because the low-hanging fruit is gone. The easy links have been claimed, and businesses now need more creative strategies.
As Mike Ramsey from Nifty Marketing puts it, "You have to stay on top of your game. Building links is a marathon, not a sprint, and you need the right resources to win."
The Ideal Outreach Strategy
When it comes to outreach, email remains king. Despite the rise of social media, our experts found that direct email outreach is the most effective way to secure backlinks for local businesses. Keep it personal, professional, and relevant to the recipient.
"You can’t take shortcuts when it comes to outreach," advises Adam Dorfman from SIM Partners. "Each email needs to be carefully crafted. It’s not a numbers game; it’s a relationship game."
Conclusion
In the highly competitive arena of local SEO, the right link building strategy can be the key that unlocks top-tier rankings and visibility. Whether you’re a single-location business or managing multiple outlets, don’t underestimate the power of local backlinks.
"In a digital world where visibility is everything, GMB Fox ensures your business isn’t just online—it’s the first choice customers make. Let us handle the complexities of digital marketing, so you can focus on what truly matters: growing your business."
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