/ SEO
What are backlinks and how do I get them?
Backlinks are links from other websites to yours. Quality matters far more than quantity. Get them via genuine PR, guest posts, resource pages and local citations.
/ 01
The short version
Backlinks remain a top-three ranking factor in 2026. But the game has changed — one link from a real UK newspaper or trade publication beats 100 links from spammy directories.
/ 02
What Google actually values
Editorial links from established sites in your topic area. Links from sites with real audiences. Contextual links in relevant content. Links that would exist even without SEO benefit.
/ 03
Realistic link-building for SMBs
- • Local citations (Yell, Cylex, industry directories) — foundational, easy
- • Digital PR — pitch your story to relevant journalists via HARO/Qwoted or direct email
- • Guest posts — genuine expertise on relevant publications
- • Sponsor local events, charities, community groups (natural mentions)
- • Resource pages — 'best plumbers in Colchester' style lists
- • Supplier and partner mentions — every vendor you work with should link to you
/ 04
What to avoid
Buying links (Google detects and penalises). Link farms and PBNs. Comment spam. Directories with 10,000 unrelated categories. Any 'we'll get you 50 backlinks for £99' service.
/ 05
Where RIOT fits in
We're a small Colchester studio helping UK SMBs get your backlink profile right without agency waste or freelancer flake. If you've read this far and you want a second opinion on your specific setup, book a 20-minute call and we'll tell you honestly whether it's worth doing anything at all.
We work with clients across Essex, Suffolk, London and the wider UK — and remotely with brands abroad. No lock-in, no monthly retainer minimums, no pretending your problem is bigger than it is.
/ FAQs
Common questions
How many backlinks do I need to rank?
Depends on the term. For local SEO, 20–50 quality citations often does it. For competitive national terms, 100+ real editorial links.
Are nofollow links useless?
No — Google treats them as hints and they can drive real traffic. Focus on links that add value, follow or not.
Still not sure?
Book a free 20-minute call — we'll answer your specific version of this question with no sales pitch.
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