Backlinks continue to be one of the strongest signals in Google’s ranking system, but all backlinks are not equal. To rise through the SERPs, you require a good strategy to acquire quality do-follow backlinks that transfer authority and trust. These are the best, most effective strategies to create your backlink profile—ethically and cost-effectively.
Establish Authority Through Digital PR
One of the quickest and most environmentally friendly means of acquiring high-quality backlinks is by adopting a savvy digital PR approach. By creating news-worthy pieces and pitching them to reporters, entrepreneurs and marketers are able to secure mentions in top publications such as Forbes, TechCrunch, and YourStory—all with valuable do-follow links.
Tools like QuickPR streamline this process by connecting your startup or product with verified media outlets, increasing your chances of coverage without hiring a full PR agency.
Create Link-Worthy Content
Content is still king—but only if it’s valuable. Invest in original research, data reports, industry case studies, and long-form blog posts. These tend to earn natural do-follow backlinks from journalists, bloggers, and fellow creators looking to cite credible information.
Bonus tip: Convert your content into infographics and submit it to roundup posts or visual resource sites for additional exposure.
Take Advantage of Founder’s Thought Leadership
Founder branding is not merely social media presence—it’s also an effective backlinking tactic. Guest posting opinion pieces or interviews on niche sites and startup forums tends to get do-follow backlinks to your personal website or startup home page.
Being anachronistically mentioned by startup media outlets can push visibility and link equity. Since both are good, it’s a win-win.
Partner. With Niche Blogs & Communities
Guest posting isn’t dead—if executed properly. Avoid spammy outreach and target top-notch blogs in your niche. Provide truly valuable information that helps their readers and put your backlinks within the context of the content naturally.
You can also establish do-follow links through participation in Reddit AMAs, LinkedIn newsletters, or sites such as Indie Hackers and Hacker News (where permitted to backlink).
Track Brand Mentions
Use Ahrefs, Semrush, or Google Alerts to monitor where your brand name, founder name, or product is being mentioned. When you discover an unlinked mention, politely email the site owner and request that they add a clickable, do-follow link. Most will comply if your email is non-pushy and professional.
Create Backlinks Through Startup Directories & Product Launches
If you’re launching a product or a startup, leverage sites that provide exposure and backlinks. Platforms such as Product Hunt, BetaList, and StartupBase give do-follow links in product pages and profiles.
You can even leverage QuickPR to boost your launch story and get media who will link back to you from launch coverage.
Using a mix of smart content, PR amplification, and founder-branded content, you can develop a backlink profile that positively influences rankings rather than penalties. The secret? Prioritize quality over quantity—and collaborate with sites like QuickPR that let you scale without gimmicks.
Need assistance executing these tactics on your startup? Submit your link below—we’ll provide you with a backlink audit.