Backlinks: What They Are and Why Your Local Business Needs Them
If you’ve never heard of a backlink, you’re not alone. But if you want your local business to show up higher on Google, they’re something worth knowing about.
Here’s the simple version - no jargon, no fluff.
So, What’s a Backlink?
A backlink is just a link from someone else’s website to yours. That’s it.
Think of it like a recommendation. When another website links to your business, it’s a bit like saying, “Hey, this business is worth checking out.”
Google notices those recommendations. The more trustworthy websites that link to you, the more trustworthy you look in Google’s eyes.
Why Do Backlinks Matter for Local SEO?
Google uses backlinks to help decide which websites to show at the top of search results.
For local businesses, this is especially important. If you’re a plumber in Southampton, for example, having a few solid backlinks could be the difference between being buried on page 5 or showing up in the local map pack.
Good backlinks can:
Boost your visibility in search results
Help more customers find you
Build trust in your brand
What Makes a Good Backlink?
Not all backlinks are created equal.
A backlink from a trusted site - like your local newspaper, a supplier, or a business directory - is way more valuable than one from a random blog that no one reads.
And more isn’t always better. A few high-quality links can do a lot more for your SEO than dozens of low-quality ones.
How to Get Backlinks for Your Local Business
You don’t need to be techy to get backlinks. Here are a few easy ways to start:
✅ Join Local Directories
Sites like Yell, Checkatrade, or even your local Chamber of Commerce often include a link to your website.
✅ Team Up with Local Partners
If you work with other businesses - suppliers, venues, or collaborators - ask if they’ll link to you on their site.
✅ Get Involved Locally
Sponsor a local event? Donate to a school fundraiser? These are great ways to earn a link from community websites.
✅ Be Newsworthy
If your business is doing something interesting, let the local press know. A feature in the local paper can come with a powerful backlink.
✅ Create Useful Content
Write blog posts or guides that others might want to share or refer to - like this one.
One Final Tip: Focus on Earning, Not Chasing
There’s no need to buy backlinks or obsess over them. Just build genuine relationships, get involved locally, and be helpful online. The links - and the customers - will come.
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✅ Natural anchor text (like “air conditioner in Southampton” or “local driving instructor”)
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👉 Get in touch and grab a backlink here for just £10 - support this site and boost your own visibility in one go.
What is a backlink in simple terms?
A backlink is a link from another website to yours. Think of it like a digital recommendation.
Do backlinks really help local businesses?
Backlinks help your business appear more trustworthy to Google, which can improve your local search rankings.
How can I get backlinks without paying for them?
You can earn free backlinks by listing your business in local directories, partnering with other businesses, getting local press coverage, or sharing helpful content on your website.
