"Nofollow" backlinks have perplexed many SEOs - but not anymore!
This article will give you exact information regarding the same.‘
But before that, let me take you through the problem.
Some people believe that nofollow backlinks do not hold much importance in SEO. They believe that nofollow links provide little value in improving search engine rankings.
While some people advocate for using nofollow backlinks, there are others who disagree.
Now the question is…
Should you consider these links? Or ignore them?
Recent studies suggest that the narrative around nofollow backlinks may need to be revisited. Wondering how?
In this article, I will explore the impact of nofollow links on SEO. Plus, I will also debunk some common myths surrounding their effectiveness.
But!
First thing first…
What are Nofollow Links?
Let me tell you to dofollow links first. Dofollow links are those links that possess SEO importance. They pass authority and help you in ranking.
In comparison, dofollow links are those links that directly do not pass any authority to the linked site. This often comes with the tag ‘rel=nofollow.
Google uses the nofollow link attribute to understand a link's context. Moreover, Google introduced two new attribute values, `rel="sponsored"` and `rel="ugc"`. These two will help to replace nofollow in certain cases for better context.
Does a nofollow link impact SEO results? This is where most SEOs fight. Let me teach you logically.
The Unfair Reputation of Nofollow Backlinks
Okay, first, let’s hover around the reputation of nofollow links.
To explain the concept of nofollow backlinks, let's go back to 2005.
Back then, it came into effect to combat comment link spam.
Website owners were encouraged to use the nofollow attribute for paid (sponsored) links.
The intention was clear…
The intent is to send a signal to search engines not to pass authority for the said links.
Consequently, many SEO professionals began to view all nofollow links as worthless for SEO purposes.
However, this perception may not accurately reflect the reality of their impact.
The Evidence: Nofollow Backlinks and Rankings
Recent studies have shed light on the relationship between nofollow backlinks and SERP rankings.
Ahrefs extensively analysed over 40,000 search engine results pages (SERPs).
Guess what?
They have found a strong correlation between rankings, domain authority, and backlinks (both nofollow and dofollow).
While the correlation with dofollow backlinks was slightly stronger…
However, this study suggests that Google still considers some value in high-authority nofollow backlinks.
Another compelling case study featured on SEMRush's blog further supports the idea that nofollow backlinks can positively impact search rankings.
The study described how a marketer achieved a significant increase in search rankings within a week by obtaining a sitewide nofollow backlink from a highly authoritative website in their target niche.
Plus, it also indicates that Google may still take into account the relevance and authority of nofollow backlinks.
Why Nofollow Backlinks Matter to Your SEO Strategy
Beyond the evidence presented above, there is more to it…
I will give you several solid reasons why you should consider nofollow backlinks from high-authority sites.
Consider this as an integral part of your SEO strategy.
Let's explore some of these reasons:
Nofollow Backlinks Generate Traffic
While nofollow backlinks may not directly impact SEO, they can still drive referral traffic to your website. A nofollow backlink from a high-traffic site, such as BusinessInsider or BuzzFeed, can result in a significant influx of visitors to your site.
High-Authority Nofollow Links Are Valuable
A nofollow backlink from a high-authority site in your niche can carry more weight than a dofollow backlink from a low-authority site. Google's evaluation of backlink value heavily considers the authority of the linking website. Therefore, an editorially approved nofollow backlink from a reputable site can strengthen your backlink profile and drive referral traffic.
Nofollow Links Can Lead to Dofollow Links
Nofollow backlinks on high-authority sites often attract the attention of smaller websites, resulting in dofollow links. When people discover valuable content on high-authority sites, they may reference and link to it in their own content, providing you with valuable dofollow backlinks.
Nofollow Links Diversify Your Link Profile
Maintaining a natural link profile is essential for avoiding Google penalties. A natural link profile includes a mix of both dofollow and nofollow backlinks. By incorporating nofollow backlinks into your strategy, you can create a more diverse and natural link profile.
Nofollow Links Strengthen Your Digital PR Strategy
Many popular business and marketing websites use the nofollow attribute for external links. However, when it comes to long-term brand building and digital PR, the type of link (nofollow or dofollow) becomes less important. What matters most is having your brand featured on highly credible and widely followed websites, as this helps build authority and drive referral traffic.
The Bottom Line: Nofollow Backlinks Have Value for SEO
Contrary to popular belief, nofollow backlinks should not be dismissed as useless for SEO. They can still position your brand as an authority, generate traffic, and expand your reach across industries.
These factors directly impact SEO, as Google considers brand authority when ranking websites.
Therefore, the next time you have an opportunity to secure a nofollow backlink from a high-authority site…
…seize it without hesitation, regardless of the link attribute.
In essence, nofollow backlinks should be integrated into your SEO strategy as part of a comprehensive approach to link building.
While dofollow backlinks may carry more weight, nofollow backlinks can still contribute to your overall SEO efforts:
Driving traffic
Establishing your brand as an authority in your industry.
Embrace the potential of nofollow backlinks and leverage them to enhance your search engine rankings and online visibility.
So, when you shouldn't use a nofollow tag: If you're linking to a valuable resource without any exchange and the link isn't designed to manipulate PageRank.
