Should You Use Linkbait?
Posted by gemsuraj on September 14, 2007
If you post on your blog about a specific subject in hopes of creating a buzz and having others link to you, you’re guilty of linkbaiting. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing. If used effectively, linkbait can be a wonderful tool for increasing traffic and making others aware of your blog. Unfortunately, smarmy types can also use linkbait as spam. Because of this, linkbaiting is often a source of discussion among bloggers. Should you use linkbait in your blog? Let’s explore both sides.
The Benefits of Linkbaiting:
If you notice an increase in traffic pointing to a specific blog post, you effectively posted linkbait. When used correctly, linkbaiting is a powerful promotional tool. Having your post mentioned on other blogs drives traffic to you. Not only might this give you new visitors, but it will also help to increase your search engine and Technorati rankings.
Having your name mentioned around the blogosphere can also help you gain credibility. If you always have something interesting to say, other bloggers point to your posts often and you’ll gain a reputation as a reliable source. Things can only get better from there.
The Down Side of Linkbaiting:
If you’re going to be using linkbait, you better know what you’re talking about. While linkbait can help you gain credibility, it can also do the opposite. What happens if you drive traffic to your site, but have no clue of what you’re talking about? You’ll be regarded as a sham. People may still blog about you but it will be in a negative manner.
Many websites and even some blogs are implementing linkbait to drive traffic to their site to sell something. While there’s nothing wrong with a little shameless self promotion, no one wants to be misled into landing on spam.
Should You Use Linkbait?:
There’s nothing wrong with using linkbait in your blog posts. When you consider how many bloggers post in hopes of bringing in traffic and gaining attention, most of us can be accused of linkbaiting on more than one occasion. I suppose you have to ask yourself if you’ll be using your powers for good or evil. Will visitors be landing on your blog in hopes of an interesting read, or will they turn away in disappointment because you’re pitching your latest e-book? Linkbait is a tool, use it to your advantage.
