Google has over 200 factors that determine your site ranking and #1 is Backlinks.

A backlink is a link from one website to another. Like a 'vote' for a page, it tells Google the content is valuable. Backlinks are the basis of the PageRank algorithm.

The more backlinks you have, the higher you'll rank on Google

Link building is an art and science, creative and analytical. It involves detective work, psychology, tech tools, and relationship building.

• Quantity over quality - be strategic and target sites in your niche.

• Backlinks need to grow organically - no paying for links to your site!

8 ways to get backlinks in 2021

1. Roundup posts - write a blog and quote an expert in your niche. When it's published, ask them to share it.

2. Link roundups - Google "[your keyword]" + "roundup" and check the results. Email the site owner and ask if they will include your linkable asset in future roundups.

3. Broken link building - add the check my links Chrome extension to find broken links. Contact the site owner and pitch your content solution!

4. Loot your competitors' backlinks - use Ahrefs Site Explorer to research competitors and monitor your niche. Find out where their links are coming from and pitch the same outlets.

5. Write testimonials for products/services you use - your URL may be included.

6. Link reclamation - Use Mention.com to find brand mentions that are unlinked - and ask them to link back. Try Google's reverse image to find unlinked images.

7. Create linkable assets - keep creating great content people want to link to.

8. Become a trusted source for journalists/bloggers - sign up for HARO and use #JournoRequest.

Link building is the most crucial part of your marketing. Use these strategies to grow your authority, and you'll see a steady improvement in your PageRank over time. Happy link building!