If you have been in the SEO game for any amount of time, you know how important backlinks are. But the way we build links is constantly changing. What worked five years ago might feel outdated today. In 2025, success will come from strategies that prioritize value, both for the reader and the site you are linking to. Let’s discuss eight link building techniques that are not just effective but are also sustainable for the long run.

1. Write Content People Can’t Help but Link To

Here’s the truth: great content will always attract links. But let’s get specific. In 2025, people will link to content that is more than just words on a page. Think unique research, original case studies, or in depth guides with actionable steps. For example, instead of writing “10 Tips for SEO,” go deeper, try “How We Increased Our Organic Traffic by 1730% in 6 Months (with Screenshots).” People love real world examples and will share your content because it brings something new to the table.

2. Guest Blogging Done the Right Way

Guest blogging is far from dead, but let’s face it: spammy, low quality posts won’t cut it. The trick is to focus on blogs that matter in your niche. Instead of writing generic posts, pitch something highly specific and relevant to their audience. For example, if you’re in the fitness space, don’t just pitch “How to Stay Fit.” Instead, try something like “The Science Behind Intermittent Fasting for Athletes.”

How to Stand Out: When pitching, don’t send a template email. Show the blog owner that you have actually read their content. Reference a recent post, explain how your topic complements their audience, and offer a headline that grabs their attention.

3. Turn Broken Links into Opportunities

Broken link building is a win win. Websites don’t want broken links on their pages, it’s bad for user experience. That’s where you come in. Use tools like Ahrefs or SEMrush to find broken links on sites in your industry. Then, reach out with a friendly message offering your content as a replacement.

Here’s a simple email template you can try:
Hi [Name],
I noticed a broken link on your page [insert URL]. It seems like the link to [describe the resource] is no longer working. I happen to have a resource on [your topic] that could make a great replacement. Would you like me to send it over?

This approach works because you’re helping them improve their website while earning a quality backlink.

4. Use Digital PR to Get Featured in Big Publications

Digital PR is just a fancy way of saying, “Get your brand mentioned by the media.” Journalists and bloggers are always on the lookout for interesting stories, data, or expert opinions. If you can provide those, you’ll earn backlinks from some high authority sites.

Ideas That Work:

• Data driven reports: For example, “2025 Trends in E commerce” backed by unique survey results.
• Human interest stories: Share inspiring or unique aspects of your business that journalists can’t ignore.
• Opinion pieces: Position yourself as an expert by writing thought provoking articles or offering commentary on industry news.

Where to Start: Platforms like HARO (Help A Reporter Out) connect you with journalists looking for expert opinions. It’s free and can lead to incredible backlinks.

5. Partner with Other Brands in Your Niche

Think of this as teaming up rather than competing. Collaborate with businesses in your industry for things like co branded content, webinars, or even joint promotions. For example, a health supplement company could team up with a fitness coach to create an ebook on “The Perfect Workout and Nutrition Plan.”

Bonus Tip: Once you create the content, promote it on both of your websites. This cross promotion naturally results in backlinks for both parties.

6. Don’t Forget About Local Link Building

If you run a local business, don’t overlook opportunities in your own backyard. Local backlinks are incredibly valuable, especially for businesses trying to rank in specific regions.

Here’s how you can do it:

• Sponsor local events, charities, or meetups. Most organizations will list their sponsors on their websites.
• Get featured in local directories or review sites.
• Partner with local bloggers or influencers to spread the word about your business.

Example: A coffee shop could sponsor a neighborhood art festival, earning a link from the event’s website.

7. Repurpose Content into Link Worthy Formats

Sometimes, the best way to earn backlinks is to make your content more accessible. If you have written a blog post, turn it into an infographic or a short video. Visual content is much easier to share, and link to, than plain text.

For instance:

• Turn a how to guide into a YouTube tutorial.
• Transform survey data into an easy to read chart or infographic.
• Break down a blog post into a series of social media carousel posts.

Once you have repurposed the content, reach out to sites that have linked to similar resources and let them know about your new format.

8. Spy on Your Competitors (and Learn from Them)

Why reinvent the wheel when your competitors have already done the heavy lifting? Use tools like SEMrush, Ahrefs, or Moz to analyze their backlink profiles. See where they are getting their links and look for patterns. Are they getting featured on niche blogs? Are they guest posting? Once you spot the trends, you can replicate the strategies for your own website.

Pro Tip: Don’t just copy your competitors, improve on their approach. For example, if they earned a link for a basic article, create a more detailed, comprehensive version.

Wrapping It All Up

Link building in 2025 is not about shortcuts or quick wins. It’s about relationships, creating exceptional content, and consistently adding value to your audience and the sites you are collaborating with. When you focus on quality over quantity, the results will speak for themselves.

While implementing SEO strategies, it’s crucial to avoid common pitfalls that can harm your rankings. Check out 21 Common SEO Mistakes to Avoid and Fix to ensure you are on the right track.

Remember, backlinks are not just about rankings, they are about building authority, trust, and a long term presence in your industry. Start with one or two strategies from this list, and watch your SEO efforts take off.