This may seem like a beginner issue to some, but to me, as a novice, it feels like a "chicken or the egg" situation. The struggle lies in the fact that domain authority is crucial for competing, but to establish that authority, you need links pointing to your page. However, to get those links, your page needs to be findable and generate traffic. Yet, to generate traffic, your page needs to be findable, creating a loop. It begs the question of where to start. While there are strategies like setting up Trustpilot and using social media, the challenge remains for websites that do not necessarily rely on informational content or blogs. How does one begin, aside from purchasing exposure?
Answer: Building backlinks can feel like a chicken-and-egg problem, but there are strategies to break the cycle. Creating high-quality content that aligns with Google’s E-A-T (Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) model, and focusing on a cluster of related topics, is a good starting point. This makes your content more valuable and relevant to search engines, attracting natural backlinks.
Leveraging roundup posts and guest posting on reputable websites like Entrepreneur, GoDaddy, Upwork, and Business Insider are effective ways to gain backlinks from authoritative sources. Additionally, utilizing platforms like Pinterest for content distribution can generate substantial backlinks and traffic.
Focusing on local SEO if applicable, networking within your niche, and building relationships can help gain organic backlinks over time. Consistency in creating valuable content and engaging with your audience is key for long-term success.