Google search discounts all reciprocal links

Google Search Updates Series

For a long time, reciprocal links have remained at the forefront of most inbound linking strategies. That is going to have to change. Today Google search discounts all reciprocal links. Google algorithm has been altered to recognize the exchange of links by two parties for the purpose of extending their number of inbound links.

The notion of reciprocal linking defies Google’s initial goal with the algorithm. Quality content should attract links. This exchange of links is nothing more than an arrangement to illegally promote others’ content with the end goal of elevating your own. Google engine doesn’t particularly like this (Consider as Link Schemes).

Many even claim that Google is now capable of identifying three-way linking schemes (i.e. website A links to website B, that links to website C, which links back to A). Either this is valid or not is hard to tell. One thing is for sure though: inbound linking strategies shouldn’t focus merely around reciprocal linking. That fabricated form of link creation is not well-received and is sequentially a waste of time. Instead, concentrate on creating unique, high-quality content in a given niche. The links will ensue.

Free Reciprocal Link Checking Tool

Google’s page on Link Schemes alerts site owners that some kinds of linking might impact the ratings of their websites negatively, including:

• Links intended to manipulate PageRank
• Links to web spammers or bad neighborhoods on the web
• Excessive reciprocal links or excessive link exchanging (“Link to me and I’ll link to you.”)
• Buying or selling links that pass PageRank

http://tools.seobook.com/general/link-check/ Reciprocal Link Checking Tool

The script allows you to check your reciprocal links free to see if link partners are still linking back at your site. I do not think it is 100% accurate, but it has worked pretty well on a number of tests I have done.