If you’ve ever Googled “what are backlinks” or “how to get backlinks,” you’ve probably seen advice that feels… a little outdated, overly technical, or kinda spammy. Buying links, joining random directories, or sending awkward cold emails isn’t exactly the vibe. And honestly, it’s not what works anymore.
So let’s simplify it.
What are backlinks?
In SEO terms, backlinks (also called SEO backlinks or inbound links) act like votes of confidence. When trusted websites link to you, Google interprets that as a signal that your content is credible and worth showing in search results.
Not all backlinks are equal. A link from a respected industry blog carries far more weight than a link from a random directory.
That’s why quality always beats quantity.
So if backlinks matter, how do you get them without feeling spammy? Let’s talk about how to get backlinks in a way that actually builds authority long term.
Create Link-Worthy Content
If you’re wondering what is a backlink in practical terms, think of it like an online referral. People link to content that’s useful, inspiring, or genuinely helpful to their audience.
That means your first step isn’t asking for links; it’s creating something worth linking to.
Here are a few ideas we love for service-based businesses:
- Design trend roundups — perfect for interior designers showcasing expertise and style insights
- Local guides — realtors can create posts like “Best Neighborhoods for Young Families” or “Top Coffee Shops in Charlotte”
- How-to blog posts — clear, practical content that solves a specific problem
- Client case studies — before-and-after transformations with real results
Pro tip! Backlinks grow faster when your content feels generous. Instead of writing for algorithms, write resources your industry actually wants to share.
Want to go one step further? Create a lead magnet tied to your blog post, like a checklist, template, or mini guide. Other websites are much more likely to link to something that offers extra value.
Be the Expert: Share Your Perspective
Backlinks don’t always come from cold outreach. Often, they come from visibility, which comes from meeting people either in real life or online.
Here are a few ways to show up as an expert and naturally earn links:
- Guest on podcasts (seriously, this is SEO gold and most hosts include links to your site in show notes)
- Speak at workshops or online summits
- Answer media requests through platforms like HARO (Help a Reporter Out)
When you contribute your perspective, editors, hosts, and collaborators often link back to your website as a source.
The easier you make it to link to you, the more backlinks you’ll earn without chasing them.
Get Featured in Roundups & Collaborations
A lot of people assume backlinks only come from massive publications. In reality, many high-quality links come from collaborations within your own industry.
You don’t need to be famous. You just need to be helpful and collaborative.
Try:
- Submitting your business to “best of” lists or curated roundups
- Collaborating on gift guides, lookbooks, or styled shoots
- Building relationships with complementary vendors and swapping blog features
For interior designers especially, there’s a simple strategy many overlook: reach out to brands whose products you use and ask if they feature designers on their website. Many companies have “designer spotlight” pages, and those often include backlinks.
This approach works because it comes from real, organic partnerships, not forced SEO tactics.
Share Testimonials That Get You Linked
One of the easiest ways to learn how to get backlinks is also one of the most authentic.
Leave thoughtful testimonials for platforms, tools, or educators you genuinely love.
Think about:
- HoneyBook
- Flodesk
- Canva
- Courses or templates you’ve used in your business
- Service providers you’ve hired in your business
Companies frequently publish user reviews on their websites, and they often link back to the person who wrote the testimonial.
It’s a win-win: they get social proof, and you gain a backlink from a trusted domain.
Just remember: be specific. Share how the tool helped your business or improved your workflow. Authenticity always stands out more than generic praise.
Optimize Your Existing Backlinks
You may already have backlink opportunities waiting for you.
Before chasing new links, check what you’ve already done.
Look through:
- Past podcast appearances
- Guest blog posts
- Vendor collaborations
- Online features or directories
If a site mentions you but doesn’t link to your website, reach out with a kind, simple request. Something like:
“Hi! I noticed my name is included in your article — thank you so much! Would you mind adding a link to my website so readers can find me easily?” (And include the link.)
Nine times out of ten, people are happy to update it.
We also recommend keeping a simple spreadsheet of where you’ve been featured. Not only does this help you track backlinks, but it also gives you content to repurpose into blog posts, emails, and social proof.
Build Real Relationships Online
Good backlinks often grow from good relationships.
If you’re trying to figure out how to find backlinks that feel aligned with your brand, start by nurturing genuine connections in your industry.
Ways to do that:
- Engage thoughtfully on other creatives’ blogs or newsletters
- Share collaborators’ work and tag them
- Support peers by highlighting their expertise
When you show up consistently and generously, collaborations and backlinks tend to follow naturally.
This is especially true in creative industries like interior design, real estate, and service-based businesses. The community is smaller than you think, and strong relationships often lead to organic mentions and links.
Submit to Directories with Credibility
Not all directories are created equal. Some can actually hurt your SEO if they feel spammy or irrelevant.
Instead, focus on directories that align with your industry and audience.
Examples include:
- Business associations or professional organizations
- Local chamber of commerce or tourism sites
- Creative platforms like Houzz, The Knot, or Rising Tide
When creating your listing, double-check that your website link is clickable and correct. This is a simple but powerful way to build foundational SEO backlinks, especially if you’re a local business.
How to Find Backlinks You Already Have
If you’re wondering how to find backlinks you already have, you don’t need fancy software to get started.
You can:
- Check Google Search Console under “Links”
- Use SEO tools like RankMath
- Search your business name in Google and see who’s mentioning you
This gives you a clearer picture of what’s already working, and where you might want to build more visibility.
Backlinks Grow Best When You Show Up Authentically
If you remember nothing else from this post, remember this: backlinks aren’t about gaming the system.
They grow when you create helpful content, build real relationships, and show up consistently in your industry.
Instead of chasing quick wins, focus on visibility strategies that feel aligned with your brand:
- Share your expertise
- Collaborate with others
- Create resources people want to reference
Over time, those authentic actions build momentum, and your SEO follows.
Need help creating content that attracts backlinks and actually gets found?
If you want backlinks that actually move the needle (without chasing spammy tactics), let’s build a strategy that supports your authority long term. Book an SEO Strategy Session and we’ll map out a visibility plan tailored to your business.
