Linking out: Follow vs. Nofollow

[AHC_SEO]

When linking out to other sites, such as resources on .gov pages, should I use follow or nofollow links?

[JasonKhoo]

The general rule is to evaluate the Domain/url you are linking to. If you trust the site and it creates good content, among other factors of a properly optimized site, then you are free to use a follow link.

If you feel that the site is not of the highest quality and can actually be detrimental because you are associating yourself with a bad site, use the nofollow links.

The best quantifiable method is to check Domain Authority, Page Authority, Spam Score. Another way to check is the good ol' eye test. If it feels like a good site then go ahead. If you just feel like there is something fishy, do a little research.

[AHC_SEO]

Thanks for the speedy response. This confirms what I thought.

[JasonKhoo]

Glad to be of service! Good luck with everything

[netzkern_AG]

Let me ask a counter-question: If a website is bad quality, why would you link it at all in the first place? (Barring that you want to give a negative example ...)

Imo the use of "nofollow" should be clearly restricted to paid links and ok, maybe forum/comment links. It is somewhat idiotic to slap a "do not follow or count this link" on a link you set yourself. A link you set yourself with a purpose, because it is relevant to the topic, gives additional information etc. If I was a search engine, I'd really consider NOT honoring the nofollow tag when somebody puts it on every link. To me it also feels somewhat dishonest: You point to a good ressource and also say "but do not give them any credit for me linking and recommending it!". Never mind the human visitor does not see or feel the nofollow in any way at all... and when user signals get more and more important, why exactly should search engines (continue to) honor something that has no bearing on human users at all?

In short: IMO nofollow belongs on paid links and on links the website owner has no way to endorse/influence (comments &c.) if necessary. If you set links yourself, it should be a normal follow link. If you want to put nofollow on it, question why you want to set this link in the first place.

Nico

[JasonKhoo]

You bring up a good point Nico. I've had bloggers/reviewers who have no followed link to my clients and it has been a little frustrating to know you did all this communication just to know they didn't give you an equity link.

What your saying is true, if its relevant why would you nofollow it. What i think it might be is that when you link to a site, you are also linking to its domain. The domain may be fine, but in the future it might start engaging in black hat seo and other things that would be detrimental. It kind of sucks to say it, but I feel like its almost like you have to make a call on the site's integrity for the future.

I'm sure there are other cases, but this is what came up to my mind first. Love to hear from other people.