Link building is one of the most crucial aspects of SEO, but let’s face it: it’s also hard work, incredibly time-consuming, and can be quite frustrating.
This is where outsourcing link building becomes a considerable option.
By partnering with a reliable link building service provider, you can delegate the heavy lifting to experts and focus on other areas of your business.
This article will help you understand why outsourcing might be your best move and how to do it right.
Let’s get into it!
Why Outsource Link Building?
Ever wondered why outsourcing link building might be your best move? Once you explore, you’ll likely wonder how you ever managed without it!
Link building isn’t just a task—it’s a complex process that requires time, expertise, and the right tools. Do you really want to spend your precious time and resources learning the ins and outs of link building?
Here’s the thing: even if you have the talent in-house, do you also have the advanced tools needed to vet sites and set strategies? Not to mention, the budget to subscribe to these tools?
It also requires connections and a network that most businesses don’t have readily available. Link building providers and agencies have spent years developing these relationships, they often have experience working in a variety of industries, which means they can effectively secure high-quality targeted links much faster.
Over 60% of businesses choose to outsource their link building to professional agencies and contractors – See here – because it works
As Jes Scholz wisely puts it,
“Impactful SEO is rarely executed by a lone wolf.” 🌐
However, handling link building in house has its perks too. It gives you more control and lets you align your strategies closely with your business goals.
But be prepared – it demands significant time, expertise, and resources—things that can be challenging for many businesses.
According to Authority Hacker, more than half of digital marketers (52.3%) find link building to be the most challenging aspect of SEO.
Finding a Reliable Link Building Partner
Choosing the right link building partner can make all the difference in your SEO efforts. It’s important to understand the dos and don’ts of the process and what to look for in a reliable link building provider.
Freelancers
Freelancers can be a cost-effective option, and platforms like Upwork, Freelance, and Fiverr make it easy to find them. These sites show genuine reviews from past clients, which can be a good indicator of their reliability.
However, keep in mind that while some freelancers might be cheaper, they come with their own set of challenges. Limited resources, varying levels of experience, and potentially slower response times can impact the quality of work. Plus, some freelancers may use questionable tactics to get high-quality links at very low prices, which can be a major red flag.
Can you really trust getting quality backlinks for just $5-$20? It’s worth questioning.
Link Building Agencies
On the other side, agencies offer a wealth of expertise and a broader range of services. They can handle everything from long-term link building strategies to securing individual high-quality links.
The advantage? Their extensive experience and resources.
But, not all agencies are equally good. Some might not deliver the quality results you’re hoping for. To find a reputable agency, check out reviews on verified platforms like Trustpilot or Clutch.
Agencies can be pricey compared to individuals but think of it as an investment in quality.
Finding the right partner involves balancing cost with quality and ensuring they align with your SEO goals. Keep these points in mind, and you’ll be on your way to finding a reliable link building partner that fits your needs.
Tip: If you’re running an SEO agency, consider outsourcing to white label link building service providers. They’ll take care of link building for your clients, freeing you to focus on their overall SEO strategies. So you can take full credit while delivering exceptional results with external expertise.
Here’s what you should question to evaluate potential link building partners:
What’s their pricing and what do you get for it?
Check what’s included in their pricing. Ensure their proposal is clear and detailed. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true, as low prices might mean poor-quality links that could harm your site.
How do they communicate and how transparent are they?
Good communication is key. Check how quickly they respond and if they explain their strategies clearly. You want a partner who’s open about their methods and keeps you updated regularly.
Can they show you their work?
Ask for examples of their past successes. They should provide:
- Case studies
- Client testimonials
- A portfolio of links they’ve built
This will help gauge their expertise and results.
What do the contracts and agreements look like?
Clarify all terms before signing: services, deliverables, payment, timelines, and guarantees.
For instance, do they offer a 100% money-back or promise to replace links if they disappear within a certain timeframe or the quality is compromised? It shows they’re confident in their services and committed to delivering lasting value.
It’s also a plus if the provider is flexible with payment terms—like allowing payments only after the links are successfully placed.
If working with a freelancer, find out their contract terms and ensure it covers service agreements, confidentiality, and dispute resolutions.
Getting Started with Your Link Building Partner
So, you’ve found your ideal link building partner outsource backlinks—what’s next?
Getting started with a new partner can be exciting, but it’s important to set the stage for a successful collaboration.
So how do you start working together?
Once chosen, set up the collaboration by:
- Deciding on communication methods and frequency
- Setting clear goals and milestones
- Creating a detailed strategy
- Establishing a feedback loop to keep things on track
Agree on key performance indicators (KPIs) and ensure regular updates on the links secured and related metrics. Use analytics tools to measure impact and review link quality periodically.
And remember, don’t settle for the first provider you find. Evaluate at least three service providers to ensure you choose the best fit for your goals, budget, and expectations.
How Much Does Outsourced Link Building Cost?
Wondering what you will need to spend when you outsource your link building?
It all boils down to your goals, your niche’s competitiveness, and the type of link building service provider you choose to go with.
Let’s look at the common pricing structures you’ll likely encounter:
Per Link Basis:
Some services charge a fixed fee for each backlink, with prices typically ranging from $50 to $500 or more, depending on the link’s quality, authority, and geographical relevance.
You may also encounter some providers offering customized pricing based on the specific cost of acquiring each link. This approach provides more flexibility in managing your budget and can sometimes help you secure high-authority links at a more affordable rate.
Monthly Retainers:
Many agencies and freelancers offer their services on a monthly retainer basis. This can vary widely, from $500 to $5,000 per month, depending on the scale and scope of their work.
This model provides ongoing support and can be ideal for businesses looking for continuous, strategic link building efforts.
For more specific campaigns, you might encounter project-based fees. The cost depends on the project’s complexity and goals.
Whether you’re looking at prices per link, monthly retainers, or project-based fees, knowing what each option offers lets you pick a service that works for you.
By outsourcing link building to a reputable provider and developing a well-crafted strategy, you can maximize your return on investment and achieve your SEO objectives.
What’s Behind the Cost of Link Building?
You’ve got a general idea of link building pricing, but the price tag might have left you scratching your head. Let’s break down the factors that contribute to the cost of the process.
Outreach Efforts: Building valuable connections with website owners takes a lot of work. It involves not just time and effort but also specialized and often pricey email outreach tools.
Content Creation: For a strong link, you need exceptional content, and quality comes at a price. But it’s essential for maintaining high standards.
Strategic Planning: Monthly outreach plans include the strategy to maximize the number and quality of links you get. Link building services work with you to develop a tailored plan that maximizes your ROI.
Placement Fees: While it’s generally recommended to avoid paid links, some websites do charge a premium, particularly in competitive industries, and in such cases, it’s often unavoidable.
Additionally, several other factors can impact your link building costs:
For instance, consider the strength of your competition, the authority and quality of backlinks you need, your target niche, and the specific keywords, or demographics you’re aiming for.
The harder it is to get links, the more expensive the service might be. Complex strategies and extensive outreach can drive up costs.
Budgeting Tip: To manage your costs effectively, start by setting a clear budget based on your SEO goals. Be transparent with your provider about what you can afford and be open to adjusting as needed. Consider looking for service packages or bundled options that offer better value. Finally, keep a close eye on your link building performance to ensure you’re getting the most out of your investment.
So, there you have it!
Outsourcing link building might seem like a big step, but it can be a real game-changer for your website. Just keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be well on your way to boosting your SEO and reaching new heights.
