The Rundown: What Is a Backlink and Why Google Cares About Them

April 15, 2026

If another website links to yours, that's called a backlink. Think of it as a vote of confidence. When reputable websites mention and link to your business, it signals to Google that your website is trustworthy and worth showing to more people.

Backlinks are one of the most well-known parts of Off-Page SEO because they come from outside your website.

Why Backlinks Matter

Not all backlinks are created equal. A link from a respected local news site, industry organization, or trusted business carries far more weight than dozens of links from low-quality or unrelated websites.


Google isn't simply counting links; it's evaluating where they come from and whether they appear natural.

Can You Buy Backlinks?

This is where business owners should be cautious.



If someone promises they'll "get you hundreds of backlinks" or guarantees better rankings by building links, that's a red flag. Low-quality or artificial backlinks can do more harm than good, and Google's algorithms have become very good at identifying manipulative link-building tactics.


The best backlinks are earned naturally by publishing helpful content, building relationships in your community, and creating a business that other reputable websites genuinely want to recommend.

Pro Tip

Not all backlinks have to come from major publications. Links from reputable local organizations, like your Chamber of Commerce, industry associations, or community partners, are legitimate, natural backlinks that can strengthen your online presence. The best backlinks are earned through real relationships and involvement in your community, not purchased from someone promising hundreds of links overnight.

THE RUNDOWN

Backlinks are links from other websites to yours, and they're an important part of Off-Page SEO. Google views quality backlinks as a sign of trust, but the emphasis is on quality over quantity. If someone is selling backlinks or guaranteeing rankings, proceed with caution. The best backlinks are the ones you earn, not the ones you buy.

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The Rundown: Why Authenticity Is Your Biggest Marketing Advantage

July 20, 2026
The body content of your post goes here. There was a time when businesses could get away with generic marketing. A polished website, a few stock photos, and the same promises everyone else was making were often enough. Those days are fading.  Today's customers and search engines are getting much better at recognizing what's genuine. They want to know who they're doing business with, what to expect, and whether they can trust you before they ever pick up the phone. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.
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SEO vs. Google Ads: Which Should Your Business Invest in First?

June 30, 2026
Compare SEO and Google Ads to understand when each strategy works best for lead generation, long-term growth, and improving marketing efficiency.
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The Rundown: What Is a Landing Page and Why It Matters

June 18, 2026
Not every page on your website has the same job. While your Home page, About page, and Services pages help visitors explore your business, a landing page is designed with a single goal: to get someone to take action. Whether you're running Google Ads, a social media campaign, or an email promotion, sending visitors to a dedicated landing page often leads to better results than sending everyone to your Home page.