Link Blog

Much has been written about the practice of link baiting over the past several years; some negative, some positive. But what, exactly, is it.

This is how Wikipedia defines it: "Link bait is any content or feature within a web site that somehow baits viewers to place links to it from other web sites." Not a great definition, but it gets the point across.

Darren Rowse had this to say about it in a post at problogger.net,"Like almost anything online, people use linkbaiting strategies for good and healthy purposes but also for dubious and ‘evil’. I guess in part we each need to think about our priorities, values and even ethics as we go about our blogging and explore this topic."

We are going to concentrate on the positive aspects of linkbaiting and the following qualities that make up a successful linkbaiter:

Focused - A successful linkbaiter is one who is primarily focuses on one particular topic. Success is gained with a specialized that topic. Be careful to make sure your particular niche includes enough readers to make your work worthwhile. If your topic is too specialized, you may not get enough return on your time investment.

Generous - Share your knowledge and encourage others to pass it on. Remember: the more you give, the more you get.

Accurate - Be sure of your facts when developing your link bait. Nothing will kill your credibility faster than passing out bad information. If you have made a mistake, admit it, apologize, and go on. Your readers will appreciate your honesty.

Curious - Delve deep into the topic. Leave no resource behind. Learn as much as you can about your topic and share your knowledge.

Inventive and creative - Look for fresh ideas and be creative in your approach.

Humility - Once successful don't forget from whence you came. Always be aware and respectful of those who have helped you along the way.

Patient - Don't try to rush your results. Good linkbaiting takes time to be successful.

Passionate - Your readers will appreciate well-written, well-argued, passionate writing, and that passion will make it link worthy. Write with passion and the links will come.

Honesty - Quote and credit those who inspired and helped you. This will only strengthen your reputation.

Inspirational - Write in such a way as to inspire your readers to think. Open the door and gently nudge them through, but be careful not to insult their intelligence by writing down to them.

We are sure there are many more qualities for a successful creator of link bait, but start with these and soon you, too, will start reaping the rewards.