Copying Competitor's Link Backs?

[Uramark]

Hello,

Is it a viable idea to copy competitors link structure? Imagine we manage a new site with low page and domain authority.  Is okay to use the Link Tool and filter domains that link back to our competitor and then work our way up from low ranking directories and related sites?

Currently I am using RoboForm and trying to 'catch up' to a competitor in terms of link backs.

Additionally, I've been reading articles about whether submitting to directories is good, but if we see they have alright domain and page authorities, does it make sense to apply to them when our competitors are in them?

Much appreciated

[Uramark]

http://www.opensiteexplorer.org

[cmoylan]

SEOmoz's Open Site Explorer is all kinds of super awesome.

[ClaireH-184886]

what is the best tool to use to find out who your compeditiors are getting links from

[Uramark]

Thanks for the reply.

I now understand it's not the goal to be included in every directory out there.

I would like to add that by finding who links to my competitors I am able to learn about related industry directories, sites and bloggers.  Is this the type of space that is recommended?

[CaseyKluver]

Totally agree with Doug on how to analyse. Try to out think your competition, not copy your competition is the best way to go about it.

If your best competition's backlink portfolio is built up with directories, then you should save yourself the trouble in copying all of their links. For the same amount of time you will take submitting to hundreds of directories you can be building good links, creating great content and being productive. Not to say all directories are bad, SEOmoz just published a list of trusted directories http://www.seomoz.org/directories If you must, submit to those or other relevant directories.

I have never used RoboForm before, but I looked at their site, it looks like it just makes it easier to copy stuff into forms? Its not a good idea to submit to directories using all of the same descriptions/info.

That being said, try reaching out by guest posting, rebuilding broken content & links, etc and only submit to trusted or relevant niche directories if you absolutely feel the need to.

[DougRoberts]

Analysing your competitors backlinks is a great idea. I don't think you need to copy your competitors link structure exactly though.

As well as looking to identify immediate backlink opportunities, think a little broader...

Don't just focus on the specific sites that link back to your competitors. Look at how you might group and classify those sites to help identify other similar sites that even your competitor hasn't got backlinks from.

As well as looking at the sites that link to competitors, also look into why/how they are linking to your competition. You want to understand what reason they have to provide the link, what you can offer as an incentive (what content you need on your site) and how you can refine your request to be as compelling as possible. If you can offer something of value, and create a win-win scenario it may make things easier.

As far as directories go, if there are niche directories that your target audience would expect you to be present in, then it would be worth getting a listing. Getting links from low value directories can be easy, but the rewards are going to be less. I don't think I'd "work your way up from low ranking directories..."

Appearing in reputable directories along side your competition may help reinforce the perceived authority of the site. Prioritise your efforts on those backlinks that are likely to provide the greatest benefits.

Remember, it's not just about getting the backlinks to improve your rankings and as a result your organic search traffic. Good quality backlinks can provide highly qualified traffic.

Hope this helps, Good luck!