Reciprocal Linking Strategy

[mreisbeck]

Hello All,

I wanted to ask something regarding a link-building tactic that I was thinking about trying.

Many sites have what seem to be automated systems for adding a URL to a page in a site, but first require a reciprocal link to be posted from a page on your own.  I was thinking about starting up a separate small blog/information site that related to subjects in my industry, and posting links to related resources on other sites as well.

Could I use this as a vehicle for acquiring links that point to my main domain, while reciprocating links from the separate domain where the blog/informational site was located?  Has anyone tried this before? Do these automated systems only accept a reciprocal link request if a link is verified from the same domain that you request your link to be pointed at?

I realize that some webmasters who verify links manually may have an issue with this, however I feel I can overcome that concern more often than not by delivering quality, relevant content on the informational site (as well as promoting that site separately).  I think any savy webmaster would prefer it this way as well.

I'm certain this has been tried before, but would like to find out what kind of results I might expect.  Any experience or advice that may be given here will be much appreciated.

Mike

[alexhoug]

Hi Mike,

I would say go for it. What this sounds like is three-way linking right? Three-way linking will give you a non traceable link profile which will add additional benefits. The automation part may be difficult, but could work. I'd recommend communicating directly with the webmasters though as it may be against TOS of the reciprocal link networks / systems.

Let me know what you think.

[mreisbeck]

Hello Alex,

I apologize for the late response.  Thanks for the info...I researched more
into "three-way linking" and it seems that it may have a bad reputation among
some in the seo community.  I believe you are right though, I think it would
be an effective effort if I can communicate directly with webmasters about
link exchange opportunities.  May have limited success with the automated
systems as well.

Thanks again.

[alexhoug]

No problem, let me know if you have any more questions.

-Alex