Links count for a lot when it comes to search engine optimisation. Usually an inbound link seems like a gift to a site. Sometimes, it’s more like a curse. Too many bad links can cost your pages ranking points.

A lot of the problems in the SEO community come from the desperation to build good link profiles. You can only do so much with your on-page search engine optimisation tactics. A good link profile shows Google that your site is popular and reputable, and that others are willing to vouch for you. This can boost you much further than discovering the mythical keyword density formula many SEO pros dream of.

The worst-case scenario

It happens surprisingly often. A site is eager to boost their SEO plan and comes across an easy link. They form the link, sometimes providing one as a return of favour. A few weeks down the track, the search engines come across the linking system and BAM! All of the sites get taken off the index, including the site that thought it was an innocent link. Ignorance will not save you from the consequences if you’ve linked into a link farm, but knowledge will get you out of the situation.

All is not over when your links get you into trouble. If it’s a case of an inbound link only, you’re likely to be unharmed. If, however, you have featured a link from that site on your own pages, you could be implicated in the link farm, leading to your pages being removed from the index.

In almost all cases the remedy is to remove the bad link and apply for re-inclusion. Once you have severed the connection with the bad site, the search engines should let you back in. You can talk to us at SEO Consult about application for re-inclusion.

Protect yourself with knowledge

Just as you wouldn’t engage in a business deal without a basic background check, you should not forge a link with a site without doing a little checking. This doesn’t have to resemble a full police investigation. Usually, all you need to do is take a look around the site, and watch for telltale signs.

There are plenty of signs that show not all is as it seems. Sites that feature lots of links, particularly if they are relatively small in size themselves, should be avoided. Sites that feature links on their home page should set off preliminary alarm bells, although this isn’t a definite indication. Sites that link to others in vastly different industries and topic areas are also suspect.

The main guideline is common sense. Your own site probably provides links every now and then. You’re likely to have logic for these links, whether it’s a favour to a friend, a link you think your site’s users will enjoy, or forging a stronger relationship with a business contact. If the person offering a link has no reason to do so other than to get one from you, the alarm bells should ring.

Get Involved