Linkbuilding

[sarmad_malik]

Hi,

I am trying to rank a website in a competitive niche (health related). I am looking to hire someone really good in outreach and good llinkbuilding. I have tried elance and mostly Indian companies on it which couldn't really deliver. I have also checked moz's recommended list and those guys are way too pricey for start-ups.

Is there members on the forum who come recommended? I am happy to work out reasonable fees and possibly also discuss equity in the business.

Any help would be appreciated.

[TomRayner]

Hi Sarmad

On the whole, the health niche is very competitive.  You may have found a nice little pocket to target, but the likelihood is that you'll be going up against some big brands and operations, so whoever you choose to work with should be obliged to give you an frank estimation - which may involve a budget bigger than expected.

Be wary of those PMing you promising the world at a low cost.  If it sounds too good to be true - it probably is.

[ClaytonJ]

We work for health insurance entities and for one target the keyword health insurance. It is not dissimilar to targeting any keyword, except more expensive and competitive. The quality of work must be first rate. The key to success on terms like health  - is fight the battles you can win. ie if new to the market, new url etc. there is no chance of ranking in the top 4-5 for the primary keyword, for an extended period.  However you maybe able to rank in the top 5 for the keywords "best health insurance". Generate cash flow & re-invest.

My suggestion is not to give up equity in the business to a stranger - simply fraught with danger. Also you are giving up your IP.  You may get lucky odds are it will be a disaster. Firstly roll up your sleeves. Then do a site audit. Moz does a partial for you.    https://moz.com/blog/technical-site-audit-for-2015

Then once your site is audited and clear, start working on the customer experience - website and go door to door if you have to.  If it a good product and customers love it you are on the right track. You need to access feedback honestly.

My view is the way to succeed is to ensure your customer thinks you are the best in market at whatever you do.  That special service you gave the customer means they will start to promote it. Links will flow from good content, so concurrently work on informative content.

The reality is it is just plain old fashioned hard work. Remember if you do it yourself whenever a website issue arises you can ask the community a specific question - you will get plenty of help.

Hope that assists.