Some consider links the most mysterious and elusive part of search engine optimization. Google's FUD campaign against link building hasn't helped the situation, but the simple fact is that link building works. You could argue that links are the entire reason Google exists.

Over the years, Google has taken algorithmic measures to combat unnatural link building, so it's certainly more difficult to build links. But links are still the backbone of any competitive SEO strategy. This is especially true for new websites.

The client

This client was on the verge of launching their website when they hired Inflo. The site had a huge amount of user-generated content, but the site was in "stealth mode" and wasn't gaining any links.

After we worked with the client to make sure the site was optimized and ready for launch, we shifted our focus to an aggressive link building campaign.

The strategy

User-generated content offers huge opportunities but also comes with challenges. Users often generate content at a pace that makes it impossible to build links to every piece of content. But by implementing smart strategies, you can leverage powerful links and bring huge traffic increases.

Through building high quality links to the site, we were able to gain some quick wins and start bringing in traffic soon after site launch.

Since building links directly into each piece of content wasn't a viable strategy, we focused on the homepage and on top category pages. This allowed us to distribute link authority throughout the site effectively.

The result

By the third month of the campaign, the client's organic search channel had grown 68%. By the sixth month, it had achieved 420% growth. Monthly sign-ups increased 120% and 950%, respectively.

Focusing on high quality links gave this client a strong SEO foundation to build on. The client continues to work with Inflo on improving their SEO through link building and technical improvements.