External Links question
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Hi UtahTiger,
I would underline the fact that link metrics are not enough to check the weight of a valuable link partnership.
For example, let me show you what I look at when choosing a link partnership:
1. Does my link provide additional value to the specific page? (if so, after click-through there is a higher chance of converting)
2. Where is my link placed? (Although people can place a link randomly on their website, I prefer to have a link that fits in naturally in the text. Not only for Search Engines, but human visitors will also be more likely to click on a link in the content than one in sidebar.)
3. Is there a chance for Search Engines easily reach the page? (well you do Link exchange for gaining some link reputation, right? you don't want to miss out the search engines neither)
4. Is it follow/nofollow?
5. And only on this stage I check the link metrics.
I have left the link metrics on the last position just for one reason: try to provide value with your link first and only after try to gain something in exchange (the good-old link juice).
Numbers can tell you a lot, but not everything.
Good luck with building good links!
Gr.,
Istvan