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Introduction: Why Dofollow Backlinks Matter for SEO

Backlinks are the backbone of search engine optimization (SEO). They act as "votes of confidence" from other websites, signaling to Google that your content is valuable and trustworthy. Among these, dofollow backlinks are the most powerful because they pass link equity (or "link juice") to your site, directly improving your domain authority and search rankings.

While some marketers spend thousands on paid backlink campaigns, there are proven, ethical, and free methods to earn dofollow links. This guide will walk you through actionable strategies to build high-quality backlinks without breaking the bank.

Useful Tools & Utilities to make life easier.

Understanding Dofollow Backlinks

What Are Dofollow Backlinks?

Dofollow links are hyperlinks that allow search engines to follow them, passing authority from the source page to your website. By default, all links are dofollow unless tagged with rel="nofollow".

Why Do They Matter?

• Improved Search Rankings: High-quality dofollow links are a top Google ranking factor.
• Increased Referral Traffic: Links from authoritative sites drive targeted visitors to your content.
• Enhanced Credibility: Earning links from reputable sources builds trust with both users and search engines.

 

Free Strategies to Build Dofollow Backlinks

1. Guest Blogging: Write for Authority Websites

Guest blogging involves creating content for other blogs in your niche. Most reputable sites allow dofollow links in author bios or within the content itself.

Steps to Succeed:

1. Find Relevant Blogs: Use Google search operators like intitle:"write for us" + [your niche].
2. Craft a Pitch: Offer unique, data-driven topics (e.g., "10 Underrated SEO Tools for Small Businesses").
3. Include a Dofollow Link: Request a contextual link to a relevant page on your site.

 

2. Broken Link Building: Replace Dead Links with Yours

Broken link building involves finding dead links on authoritative websites and suggesting your content as a replacement.

Steps to Execute:

1. Identify Broken Links: Use tools like Ahrefs or the Chrome extension Check My Links.
2. Create Similar Content: Develop a resource that matches the dead link’s original purpose.
3. Reach Out: Email the site owner with a polite suggestion (e.g., "I noticed a broken link on your page—here’s a relevant replacement!").

 

3. Resource Page Link Building: Get Listed on Curated Pages

Resource pages compile helpful links for a specific topic (e.g., "Best SEO Tools"). Getting listed here can yield long-term dofollow links.

Steps to Secure a Spot:

1. Find Resource Pages: Search Google for [niche] + "resources" OR "links".
2. Analyze Competitors: Identify which sites link to competitors’ resources.
3. Pitch Your Content: Highlight why your tool/resource is a better fit.

 

4. The Skyscraper Technique: Outrank Competitors

Coined by Brian Dean, this strategy involves:

1. Finding popular content in your niche.
2. Creating something better (more comprehensive, updated, or visually appealing).
3. Reaching out to sites linking to the original content to promote your upgraded version.

Example:

• Original Post: "50 SEO Tips"
• Your Upgrade: "100 Advanced SEO Tips with Case Studies" + interactive infographic.

 

5. Leverage Forums and Q&A Platforms

Participate in niche forums (e.g., Reddit, Quora) by answering questions and sharing your expertise. Many forums allow dofollow links in profiles or comments.

Tips:

• Avoid spamming—focus on providing value.
• Use platforms like Stack Exchange for technical niches.

 

6. Create Link-Worthy Content

Content that earns natural backlinks includes:

• Original Research: Surveys, studies, and data-driven reports.
• Ultimate Guides: Comprehensive resources covering a topic in-depth.
• Tools/Calculators: Free SEO tools (e.g., keyword difficulty checker).

Example:

A "Keyword Research Checklist" PDF downloadable in exchange for an email address.

 

7. Collaborate with Influencers and Industry Experts

Interview influencers or co-create content with experts. They’ll often share the collaboration, providing a dofollow link.

Steps:

1. Reach out via email or social media with a personalized message.
2. Offer mutual benefits (e.g., exposure to your audience).

 

8. Submit to Niche-Specific Directories

Directories like Crunchbase (for businesses) or HARO (Help a Reporter Out) offer dofollow links.

Tips:

• Prioritize industry-specific directories over generic ones.
• Ensure the directory is reputable to avoid spam penalties.

 

9. Repurpose Content into Infographics

Infographics are highly shareable and often linked to by bloggers. Host the graphic on your site and embed a dofollow link for attribution.

Tools to Create Infographics:

• Canva
• Piktochart

 

10. Monitor Mentions and Claim Unlinked Brand Mentions

Use Google Alerts to track mentions of your brand without links. Politely ask the author to add a dofollow link.

Template Email:

"Hi [Name], I noticed you mentioned [Brand] in your recent article. Thanks for the shoutout! Would you mind adding a link to our site for readers to learn more?"

 

Tools to Track Your Backlinks

Use free tools to monitor progress:

1. Google Search Console: Identify existing backlinks and fix errors.
2. Ahrefs Free Backlink Checker: Analyze referring domains and anchor text.
3. Moz Link Explorer: Check domain authority and link growth.

 

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Spamming: Avoid low-quality comment links or irrelevant forums.
2. Over-Optimized Anchor Text: Use natural phrases like "click here" instead of exact-match keywords.
3. Ignoring Competitors: Study their backlink profiles for inspiration.

 

Conclusion: Consistency is Key

Building dofollow backlinks for free requires time and effort, but the ROI is worth it. Focus on creating exceptional content, nurturing relationships, and leveraging smart outreach tactics. Stick to white-hat SEO practices to ensure long-term success.

Start implementing these strategies today, and watch your search rankings soar!