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Dirty Marketing: How to Increase Web Traffic by Utilizing Free Platforms for Guest Posting and Comments, Including the Insertion of Do-Follow Backlinks

Dirty Marketing
In the bustling world of digital marketing, gaining an edge over competitors often requires a savvy combination of strategy, creativity, and, sometimes, a bit of what we might call "dirty marketing." This isn’t about unethical practices but about maximizing every opportunity to promote your content and drive traffic. One of the most effective and often underutilized strategies is leveraging free platforms for guest posting and comments, particularly those that allow the insertion of do-follow backlinks. This comprehensive guide will explore how you can use these techniques to boost your web traffic and improve your site’s search engine ranking.

Understanding Do-Follow Backlinks

Before diving into the nitty-gritty, it’s essential to understand what do-follow backlinks are and why they matter. Backlinks are links from one website to another. A do-follow backlink is a type of link that allows search engines to follow it and pass on "link juice" or ranking power to the linked website. This helps improve the linked site’s domain authority and search engine ranking. Unlike no-follow links, which instruct search engines not to follow the link, do-follow links contribute significantly to SEO.

The Power of Guest Posting

Why Guest Posting?

Guest posting is the process of writing content for other websites within your niche or industry. It offers several benefits:

  1. Increased Exposure: Publishing on other platforms can help you reach a broader audience.
  2. Enhanced Credibility: Associating your name and content with reputable sites can boost your authority in the field.
  3. Backlink Opportunities: Most importantly, guest posts typically allow you to include backlinks to your own site, often with do-follow attributes.

Finding Guest Posting Opportunities

To start guest posting, you first need to find platforms that accept contributions. Here are some strategies:

  1. Google Searches: Use search queries like “guest post + your niche” or “write for us + your niche” to find websites open to guest posts.
  2. Competitor Backlinks: Analyze your competitors’ backlink profiles using tools like Ahrefs or SEMrush to identify sites where they have guest posted.
  3. Networking: Join industry forums, LinkedIn groups, and other communities where you can connect with bloggers and website owners.

Crafting the Perfect Pitch

Once you’ve identified potential platforms, the next step is to pitch your guest post idea. Your pitch should be concise and to the point, highlighting your expertise and the value your content will bring to their audience. Here’s a basic template:

Mathematica:

Subject: Guest Post Opportunity - [Your Topic]

Hi [Editor’s Name],

I’m [Your Name], a [Your Profession] with experience in [Your Niche]. I’ve been following [Website’s Name] for some time, and I admire your commitment to providing valuable content on [Website’s Focus]. I would love the opportunity to contribute a guest post on [Your Proposed Topic].

Here are some article ideas I believe would resonate with your audience:
1. [Topic 1]
2. [Topic 2]

I’ve written for [Other Websites], and you can check out my portfolio here: [Your Portfolio Link].

Thank you for considering my proposal. I look forward to your response!

Best regards,
[Your Name]
 

 

Writing for Maximum Impact

When writing your guest post, aim to deliver high-quality, informative content. Focus on providing real value, as this will increase the likelihood of acceptance and encourage readers to visit your site. Incorporate your do-follow backlinks naturally within the content, ensuring they enhance the reading experience rather than appearing forced.

Best Practices for Guest Posting

  • Follow Guidelines: Always adhere to the submission guidelines of the platform.
  • Avoid Over-Promotion: While it’s tempting to talk up your brand, your primary goal should be to educate and inform.
  • Include Author Bio: Most platforms allow you to include a brief bio with a link to your website. Make the most of this space.

Leveraging Comments for Backlinks

Why Commenting?

Leaving thoughtful comments on blogs, forums, and other platforms can be a powerful way to build relationships and gain backlinks. When done correctly, it helps establish your presence in the community and provides opportunities for backlinking.

Identifying the Right Platforms

Finding the right platforms for commenting is crucial. Look for sites that:

  1. Are Relevant to Your Niche: Comments on irrelevant sites are unlikely to attract the right audience.
  2. Have High Engagement: Active sites with a lot of comments indicate a vibrant community.
  3. Allow Do-Follow Links: Some platforms still allow do-follow links in comments, though they are rare.

Making Effective Comments

Effective commenting involves more than just dropping a link. Here’s how to do it right:

  1. Be Genuine: Contribute meaningfully to the conversation rather than just seeking a backlink.
  2. Provide Value: Add insights, ask questions, or share additional resources related to the post.
  3. Use Your Real Name: Using a real name and a profile picture can increase the credibility of your comments.

Commenting Platforms That Allow Do-Follow Links

While many sites default to no-follow links in comments, some platforms still allow do-follow links. Here are a few:

  1. Disqus-Enabled Blogs: Some blogs using Disqus allow do-follow links.
  2. Medium: Allows do-follow links in comments and stories.
  3. Blogger: Some blogs on Blogger still permit do-follow links in comments.

Utilizing Free Platforms for Guest Posting and Comments

Identifying Suitable Platforms

Finding the right platforms for your guest posts and comments is key to success. Here are some free platforms that are receptive to guest contributions and comments:

  1. Medium: Offers a built-in audience and allows you to include do-follow links in your posts.
  2. Reddit: Many subreddits welcome well-written posts and comments with links, provided they add value to the discussion.
  3. Quora: Answering questions on Quora with in-depth responses can drive traffic and includes do-follow links.
  4. LinkedIn Articles: Publishing articles on LinkedIn and engaging in discussions can boost your visibility and traffic.
  5. GrowthHackers: A community where you can post valuable content and include links to your site.

Strategies for Effective Use

  • Consistency: Regular contributions help establish your authority and keep you top-of-mind.
  • Quality Over Quantity: Focus on providing high-quality content and comments rather than spamming multiple platforms.
  • Engage with the Community: Respond to comments on your posts and engage in discussions to build relationships and encourage visits to your site.

Combining Guest Posting and Commenting for Maximum Effect

Building a Network

Guest posting and commenting shouldn’t be isolated efforts. By combining these strategies, you can build a network of high-quality backlinks and relationships that support your long-term SEO goals. Engage with the community, respond to comments on your guest posts, and leverage the relationships you build to secure more guest posting opportunities.

Measuring Success

Track the performance of your efforts by monitoring metrics such as referral traffic, domain authority, and search engine rankings. Tools like Google Analytics and Ahrefs can help you measure the impact of your guest posting and commenting activities.