As an SEO specialist, I, Hasan Raza, have seen how link building has evolved over the years. Many still view backlinks as mere numbers—a race to acquire as many as possible without considering their impact. However, data shows that over 90% of web pages get no organic traffic from Google, often due to a lack of quality backlinks. Simply chasing numbers doesn’t work anymore; in fact, websites with high-quality backlinks rank 3.8 times highe r than those relying on low-value links.
That’s why I believe in a different approach. To me, link building isn’t about quantity; it’s about relevance, authority, and long-term value. With 66.31% of pages having zero referring domains, securing strong, authoritative links is what truly sets a website apart.
Hasan Raza’s Philosophy Behind Link Building
Backlinks are not just hyperlinks; they are endorsements. A backlink from a credible source tells search engines that your content is valuable. However, if links come from low-quality, spammy websites, they do more harm than good. My focus has always been on building meaningful connections rather than chasing numbers.
Why Relevance Matters More Than Volume
One of the biggest misconceptions in SEO is that more backlinks automatically mean better rankings. This outdated approach ignores the reality that search engines prioritize relevance and authority. Here’s how I see it:
1. Context Over Count
A single backlink from an industry-leading website holds more value than dozens of links from irrelevant or low-authority sites. If the linking domain is unrelated to my niche, the backlink doesn’t add true SEO value. Research shows that 65% of marketers agree that link-building is the hardest part of SEO, yet it remains one of the top-ranking factors. This reinforces the need to focus on high-quality, contextually relevant links rather than sheer quantity.
2. Natural And Organic Growth
I never advocate for artificial or inorganic backlinks. Instead, I focus on earning them through high-quality content, guest blogging, and thought leadership. When links are gained organically, they stand the test of time and remain valuable despite algorithm changes.
3. Diversity In Link Profile
A well-balanced backlink profile includes links from blogs, authoritative news sources, industry forums, and niche directories. A natural mix of do-follow and no-follow links creates a healthy and credible backlink structure. According to data from Ahrefs, websites ranking in the top three positions on Google have backlinks from over 100 unique referring domains, highlighting the importance of backlink diversity in achieving higher search rankings.
My Link Building Strategies
1. Content-Driven Link Building
Instead of actively chasing backlinks, I let content work as a magnet. High-value, informative, and unique content naturally attracts authoritative backlinks. Case studies, whitepapers, and expert insights are some of my go-to content types. In fact, research shows that long-form content receives 77.2% more backlinks on average than short-form content—proving that valuable content is the key to sustainable link-building success.
2. Guest Blogging with a Purpose
Guest blogging isn’t about dropping links randomly; it’s about building credibility and thought leadership. When I contribute to industry-relevant sites, I ensure my content provides real value to their audience, making backlinks a byproduct of genuine contribution. Studies show that guest posts on authoritative sites can drive up to 60% more referral traffic, proving that strategic guest blogging is not just about SEO but also about expanding brand reach and influence.
3. Building Relationships, Not Just Links
I see link building as relationship building. Engaging with industry experts, networking with bloggers, and collaborating with influencers lead to natural backlink opportunities. Instead of cold outreach for links, I focus on meaningful engagement.
4. Leveraging Digital PR
Media mentions and PR-driven backlinks add unmatched authority. I actively work on getting featured in authoritative publications, news articles, and expert roundups to enhance brand credibility and earn high-quality links.
5. Competitor Backlink Analysis
Learning from competitors is key. I analyze where industry leaders get their backlinks and identify ethical opportunities to earn links from similar sources through better content and outreach strategies. As Neil Patel puts it:
“If you want to rank higher, don’t just build more links—build better links.”
Hasan Raza’s Sustainable Approach
For me, link building is not about gaming the system—it’s about adding value. A well-thought-out backlink strategy leads to sustainable rankings, improved authority, and a stronger digital presence. In a constantly evolving SEO landscape, those who focus on ethical and strategic link building will always stay ahead.
Instead of obsessing over numbers, focus on relevance. Instead of manipulating rankings, build authority. The right backlinks don’t just improve SEO; they establish a brand’s credibility in the long run. As Eric Ward, a pioneer in link building, once said,
“The best links are not the ones you build but the ones you earn.”
This is why my approach has always been centered on securing high-quality, meaningful links that drive lasting success.