The 5 Rules of Traffic Building Link Exchanges

There's probably no more proven way to generate traffic than via link exchanges. This is where you promote a site with a link in exchange for the same on a partner site. 

There are many places where you can put this link list, such as a Resources or Partners link list.

But before you approach a webmaster or blogger for a link exchange, it's important to keep the following in mind:

1. Avoid using canned emails. Nothing is a bigger turn off to bloggers than an auto-generated email (or one that lacks any personal touches).
2. Know who you are talking to. Just as bad is being pitched to by someone who gets your business or personal details wrong. For example, if someone approached me and said they love Pro Shopping Tips and can't wait to do a link exchange. Get the person’s name, business, and URL right.  
3. Keep it your pitch brief; it shouldn't be longer than 2-3 paragraphs. Make a quick introduction and then get to the point. Make sure you include the URL to where your link list will be. Also, you will really get their attention if you compliment them on something they've they’ve recently written or a new product feature.
4. Highlight the benefits of link exchange - it’ll have more chance of success if there’s something in it for the partner you’re pitching to. Clearly outline what you’re asking for and how it will your prospective partner.
5. Be polite. An obvious point but you'd be surprised how many people actually turn requests into demands.

Comments

[grasshopper]

I love the way you're one step ahead of me Pro-Man! Just when I start thinking about the next thing to work on for my site, you post what I need. Keep up the good work as it saves me a whack 'o' searches!

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Avoid using canned emails. Nothing is a bigger turn off to bloggers than an auto-generated email (or one that lacks any personal touches).

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worked closely with some of our partners. I worked with Medsphere and I only have great things to say about them and their technology. I really think they are going to revolutionize EMR software. Medsphere's open source community is very active and I am sure they will take good care of the OpenVistaREST, the product we helped develop.

[Justin Bieber Shoes]

Thanks for your good advice. I agree. The more people, the merrier. More weight makes for a faster ride. Thanks David, good advice. We're actually already starting to work.