How Links Can Help & Hurt SEO Rankings in 2023

A link, also known as a hyperlink, is a clickable word that directs a web user to another web location. The link will direct the user to either another page on the respective website or to a different website. When links are implemented correctly, they provide great value for websites. On the flip side, links that are inserted incorrectly or used as a “black hat” tactic can negatively impact a website’s rankings. Below we will dive deeper into how to insert web links in a way that proves useful and not harmful.

1. Insert Links That Provide Value to Users

Links on a website are a great way for users to explore other pages of your website or learn more about something. For example, if you happen to mention a particular service you offer on a certain page of content, it is a good idea to have a link that will direct users to that particular service page. Google can often detect the relevance and potential value a link can provide. Focusing on improving user experience on your website will go a long way.

2. Linking to Authorative Sites

Contrary to popular belief, linking to authoritative websites will not help your search engine rankings as much as you may think. Links should be inserted naturally and not forced. Only link to authoritative sites when it is relevant.

3. Do Not Buy Links

Buying links to increase your website’s digital presence may seem like an easy strategy in theory, but Google frowns upon link buying and has algorithms in place to detect it. If Google believes you are buying links in an attempt to manipulate search engine rankings, it can negatively affect your overall rankings. While buying links is considered a black hat SEO tactic, using backlinks is perfectly fine. In fact, backlinks have proven to be invaluable over the years. A backlink occurs when one website links users to another through clickable text. Having your websites backlink on another website can increase website traffic and help your website build more credibility.

Professional Web Services in Boston, MA

Boston Web Marketing is a digital marketing web agency that can help you improve your website’s search rankings results. With a variety of services and a decade-plus of experience, there are countless solutions our team can offer. Just contact us today to get started!

Request Your Free Website Audit Today

Revitalize your online presence.

Get started with a no-obligation SEO audit for your website. Boston Web Marketing will perform a full analysis of your website’s on-page SEO for errors and improvement opportunities. Enter your website URL to begin:

Get your free website SEO Audit

You’re just a few easy steps away from your complimentary website SEO audit.