How to Get Backlinks in 2026: 10 Proven Strategies That Actually Work

Backlinks remain one of the most powerful Google ranking factors in 2026. Despite AI-powered search updates, websites with high-quality, relevant backlinks continue to dominate Google UK, US, and global search results.

This practical guide explains how to get backlinks in 2026 using safe, ethical, and long-term strategies that support SEO growth, brand authority, and AdSense earnings.

To build a strong SEO foundation, first understand modern planning. Read our in-depth guide on SEO Strategy in 2025.

What Are Backlinks and Why They Still Matter in 2026

A backlink is a hyperlink from another website pointing to your site. Search engines treat backlinks as signals of trust, authority, and credibility.

• Improve keyword rankings in Google UK & US
• Increase organic and referral traffic
• Build long-term domain authority
• Support higher AdSense CPC & RPM

10 Ways to Get High-Quality Backlinks in 2026

1. Create High-Quality, Link-Worthy Content

Google prioritises content that demonstrates real experience and depth. Long-form guides and practical tutorials naturally earn backlinks.

Many creators enhance content quality using modern tools. Learn more in our guide on Best AI Tools for Small Businesses (2026).

• In-depth SEO guides (1,200+ words)
• Step-by-step tutorials
• Original insights with examples

2. Guest Posting on Relevant Authority Websites

Guest posting still works in 2026 when done on relevant, niche-specific authority websites.

If you target the UK market, choosing the right partners matters. Refer to: How to Find a UK-Based WordPress Agency.

• Value-first articles
• Natural contextual backlinks
• No keyword stuffing

3. Convert Brand Mentions into Backlinks

Many websites mention brands without linking. A polite outreach email can turn these mentions into valuable backlinks.

4. Use Broken Link Building Strategically

Broken links damage user experience. Offering your relevant content as a replacement earns clean backlinks.

• 100% white-hat
• Low competition strategy
• Effective for global SEO

5. Build Foundational Backlinks

Foundational backlinks help search engines verify your website’s legitimacy.

• Google Business Profile
• LinkedIn Company Page
• Trusted business directories

6. Publish Resource-Based Content

Resource pages frequently link to detailed guides that solve specific problems. This increases passive backlink opportunities.

7. Collaborate with Industry Experts

Expert interviews, quotes, and collaborations naturally earn backlinks when shared across professional networks.

8. Engage in High-Authority Communities

Platforms like Quora and Reddit improve brand visibility and trust. While most links are nofollow, they support indirect SEO signals.

9. Analyse Competitor Backlinks

Reverse-engineer competitor backlinks to find opportunities. Create better and more updated content to earn similar links.

10. Earn Backlinks Through Original Data & Case Studies

Original research, real SEO experiments, and case studies attract editorial backlinks from blogs and journalists.

• Publish SEO experiments and results
• Share traffic or ranking improvements
• Update content with fresh 2026 data

Common Backlink Mistakes to Avoid

• Buying spammy backlinks
• Using automated link-building tools
• Over-optimised anchor text
• Links from irrelevant websites

How Backlinks Help Increase AdSense Earnings

High-quality backlinks improve rankings and organic traffic, which directly increases Google AdSense revenue.

Once traffic grows, monetisation becomes easier. Read: After AdSense Approval: How to Increase Views & Start Earning.

Final Thoughts

For sustainable global rankings in 2026, focus on ethical backlink building, real value, and consistency — results will follow.

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