When using external links for onsite optimization, should they be follow or nofollow links?

[ntaparia17]

I'm trying to optimize my home page and need to add external links. I'm planning to link to other authoritative sites. Should they be follow or no follow links?

[musculos_espartanos]

If your site hasn't bad reputation and you have no problem into help increase the authority of the site you link to, AND:

1. The sites belongs to your niche: do follow.

2. You trust in their SEO practices and you think they are not penalized by Google: do follow.

If is your competitor or you are not interested into help them earn authority and rank: no follow.

If the site is not related at all with your content (for example you just want to promote other sites, profiles or platforms you own): no follow.

Make look the links natural, specially do follow ones. Be careful using the keyword on it's own in the anchor text.

I hope it helps.