External Link
An external link, also known as an outbound link, is a link from your website to a page on a different domain.
Relevance to Backlink Strategies
External links can improve user experience and show search engines the credibility of your content.
Examples
- Linking to a source in a blog post
Best Practices
- Link to reputable, relevant sources
- Use external links to support your content
- Consider using nofollow for certain external links
Additional Insights
Studies show that websites with a balanced ratio of external links to content length rank 25% higher in search results. Optimal external linking practices can increase user time on page by up to 40% and reduce bounce rates by 15%. To maximize the benefits of external links, aim for 2-3 high-quality outbound links per 1000 words of content, focusing on authoritative sources that complement your information.
While external links can boost SEO, over-linking can dilute page authority. Research indicates that pages with more than 100 external links experience a 30% decrease in link equity passed. Implement a strategic approach to external linking, using nofollow attributes for commercial or untrusted links, and regularly audit your outbound links to maintain relevance and avoid broken link penalties.