6 replies to this topic

[LibbyLu]

When looking for a links partner, is it a waste of time to contact sites that do not have a links or resource page? I have seen a couple of good sites for me but don't want to waste my time.

[Jill]

It is if you send them a standard email asking to trade links. I find those completely offensive, since I don't have a links page.

On the other hand, there's nothing wrong with asking them if they may want to add an articles section or something like that, and offer them an article you've written. But do tell them that you realize they don't currently have this type of thing, just wondering if they thought it might be useful to their site visitors.

[amabaie]

I do it all the time. In fact, I would much prefer a link from a site with no "links" page, because then my link won't get banished to such a page. But it does depend on the topic of a site. In some sectors, the only relevant links available are from the competition, and they are obviously going to relegate you to their useless links page.

I often offer to exchange articles. Sometimes I just email them with my URL and mention that it might be useful to their readers. Other times I compliment them on their site and ask if they would be interested in collaborating to build each other's traffic (which sometimes leads to a link swap and sometimes to an ezine ad swap). Basicly, I look at the site and say what I think of it and make whatever offer I think would be of most interest to the site owner, which I think is an expansion of what Jill just said.

[BobetteKyle]

I'm of the same mind. Canned link requests are automatically deleted. If someone makes a good argument for specifically how his/herr content or link adds value to the site, then I will at least take a brief look at their site or content. If it's obvious they've read a good amount of the material on my site and provide some insights, I'll look and consider a little longer.

Edited by BobetteKyle, 15 October 2004 - 05:52 AM.

[lighter]

It'll be wise to send just in case they're putting one up soon, and will keep you in touch regarding the exchange.

[Scottie]

Welcome lighter!

I'd say if your site has nothing to offer the other site and they don't have a links page, you are wasting your time.

Unless you have a neat tool that industry people would like to use, useful articles that are original and not just reprints from other sites, charts, graphs or other research, etc, SOMETHING more than just an online catalog or a corporate info site, then don't bother to send a link request.

[SearchRank]

If they do not have a links or resources page, then you better have a very compelling reason why they should add one for the sake of your site. Otherwise, I'd move on and find another site that does have these.