Everyone using the internet has at least once or many times asked himself how certain websites appear at the top of Google when you search for something. Well, one big reason is link building and today, we’ll discuss two very different methodologies of link building Black Hat and White Hat.
Let us do it in a step by step manner.
Table of Contents
What is Link Building?
Link building simply means the process of encouraging other websites to link their sites to your site. These links are called backlinks.
It is like voting — if more quality sites link to your site, Google will consider your site beneficial and credible. Therefore, it elevates your site to the higher ranking of the search engine!
Understanding Black Hat Link Building
Black Hat link building can be compared to cheating in a game. It employs other methods to get backlinks within a short time — but in a way that Google frowns upon.
Common Black Hat Tricks:
- This is because it is unlawful to pay for backlinks and one may buy links from spammy sites.
- Fake blogs that are created only for the purpose of linking (PBNs)
- This is the act of placing comment on other blog that are not related with the link that they will be posting.
- Linking in concealed areas where no one can notice the link
First, these tricks may appear efficacious. But after some time, Google realizes it — and your site can get penalized, can be delisted, or lose people’s trust.
Understanding White Hat Link Building
White Hat link building is the proper and intelligent way. It complies with the guidelines of Google and is aimed at assisting real people.
Common White Hat Methods:
- Creating content that will be used by individuals as sources for their links
- Guest posting on real and authoritative websites
- Social networking involves posting useful information on the social networks or forums.
Link building is the process of creating connections and obtaining links organically
It takes more time to apply this method but the effects are long term. Also, you do not need to worry about Google penalizing your site.
Main Differences:
| Feature | Black Hat | White Hat |
|---|---|---|
| Rules | Breaks rules | Follows rules |
| Speed | Fast, but risky | Slow, but safe |
| Quality | Low-quality links | High-quality links |
| Long-Term | Harmful | Helpful |
| Risk | High chance of penalties | Very low risk |
Why Black Hat is Dangerous
There are those that employ Black Hat techniques in order to have fast results, however, such work is unstable, and can collapse at any time.
The Google is intelligent and continues to grow in its functionality. But this can also work against you if it discovers that you are employing some bad tricks, it can:
- Delete your site from the search
- Lower your site’s ranking
- Disenchant people with your business
Why White Hat is the Best Choice
White Hat is legal, non-threatening and develops your site’s credibility with the search engines consistently. It may take effort, but:
- The site becomes more credible
- There is a constant flow of traffic from the search engines
- It is seen that people trust you and consider you as some kind of authority on the subject.
Some Easy White Hat Tips
Contribute to the creation of blog posts that address actual issues.
Educate others within the niche and offer your knowledge.
Specifically, it is recommended to request links from Web-sites that are somehow connected with the topic.
Avoid shortscuts do not take them; Google is much wiser than you might expect.
Final Thoughts
Link building is similar to planting seeds. If you use quality site (White Hat methods), your site will become powerful. However, if you take a shortcut that is actually unlawful (Black Hat), then your website is likely to be in trouble.
So be wise. Stay on the right side, be truthful, and expand the site with credibility and reliability.
If you are in need of link building services, then the following is a comprehensive guide that can assist you.
If you would like to increase your site’s traffic in a safe and effective manner, I offer guest posting services and white hat backlinks services. Let’s build something great together!