How to Build Backlinks That Last (With Free PDF Guide)

Why Do Backlinks Lose Value Over Time?

When it comes to link-building, not all backlinks are created equal. Some are like fireworks—bright for a moment, but quickly fading away.

Others?

They’re built to last. If you want your website to maintain strong rankings, you need backlinks that can weather both algorithm updates and time. 

First, it’s important to understand that most backlinks inherently lose their value over time.

Algorithm updates from search engines like Google can sometimes turn these once-valuable links against you.

Backlinks from low-quality sources—think random blog comments, social profiles, or cheap guest posts—are particularly vulnerable.

These types of links might give your traffic a brief boost but eventually die out or worse, hurt your rankings.

But here’s the good news: some backlinks can last forever (well, at least figuratively speaking).

First, it’s important to understand that most backlinks inherently lose their value over time.

Algorithm updates from search engines like Google can sometimes turn these once-valuable links against you.

Backlinks from low-quality sources—think random blog comments, social profiles, or cheap guest posts—are particularly vulnerable.

These types of links might give your traffic a brief boost but eventually die out or worse, hurt your rankings.

For local businesses, citations are a goldmine.

Citations are references to your business name, address, and phone number on other websites, which verify your location and establish your credibility.

When placed on high-quality, relevant websites, they can provide long-term benefits.

The key here is to be selective.

Resist the urge to list your business on every directory under the sun.

Only include your company on sites that add real value. Remember, low-quality citations won’t help your rankings and could even drag them down.

One of the best ways to secure backlinks that last is through digital PR.

Securing a backlink on a well-established editorial site can guarantee long-lasting results.

Think of sites like Forbes—they have articles that were published over 20 years ago and still rank high today.

The trick is delivering the right information to the right journalist.

With a solid pitch, you can land links that provide value for decades.



Another effective strategy is niche edits.

This involves adding your link to an old article that has already built up historical rankings. If an article has been ranking well for years, it’s likely to continue doing so.

By adding new, relevant content—such as quotes or expert opinions—you provide additional value to the existing article, making it a win-win for both you and the publisher.

Just be sure to target well-established websites.

Adding random links to poor-quality sites won’t do you any favors.

This might be a new one for some, but parasite links can be surprisingly effective.

These are backlinks from platforms like LinkedIn or other social media outlets that, believe it or not, can last for years.

Social media content, especially well-constructed articles or posts, often continues to rank and generate traffic long after they’re published.

Keep this strategy in your toolkit for a steady stream of backlinks.



Brand mentions are another powerful way to earn backlinks.

While news stories may disappear quickly, brand names can have a lasting impact.

The more you get your name out there by doing noteworthy things in your niche, the more natural backlinks will roll in.

Over time, these can contribute to a solid backlink profile that boosts your search engine rankings.



You can’t rely on quick fixes like sketchy guest posts, blog comments, or forum threads to keep your rankings high in the long run.

Long-lasting rankings come from long-lasting backlinks—the kind that you can secure through strategies like digital PR, niche edits, and citations.

Remember, link-building is a marathon, not a sprint. Focus on quality, relevance, and adding value, and your backlinks will stand the test of time.

Hi, I’m Zach Argyle, founder of Jodana, where I help SEOs and agencies build stronger, more resilient backlinks. Want more link-building tips? Follow me for insights that will elevate your SEO game.