Content revised 21 October 2026.
A tactic described as popular in 2018 may not serve a useful purpose today. Review the publisher, reader and relationship before repeating it.
Audit the method
List how links were obtained and what the placement contributes. A directory entry for a real business, an editorial reference and a paid ranking-link package are different arrangements even when a report counts each as one link.
Keep useful relationships
An authentic contribution or relevant business reference can still help readers. Correct outdated details and keep evidence of the work. Avoid removing a useful reference only because a third-party score is low.
Stop mechanical quotas
Bulk bookmarking, automated comments and repeated anchor text can create a poor publishing pattern. Replace the quota with a documented purpose and approval process.
Review the result
Look at referral relevance, actual placement and applicable policy. Do not promise a particular ranking effect from a tactic name. A link strategy should remain understandable to the business authorising it.
Official guidance: Google spam policies.