What Is a Backlink and Why Does It Matter for SEO?
Backlinks are one of Google's biggest ranking factors. Here's what they are, why they matter, and how to get them for your small business.
2 min read · Updated 2026-04-15
Short answer
A backlink is when another website links to your website. Google treats backlinks like votes of confidence — more high-quality backlinks = higher rankings. It's one of the most important SEO factors.
Why backlinks matter
Google's original breakthrough was treating links as votes. If many reputable websites link to yours, Google concludes your site must be trustworthy and relevant. A link from the BBC or a major industry publication carries far more weight than a link from a random blog.
Not all backlinks are equal
High-value backlinks:
- Links from relevant, authoritative websites in your industry
- Links from local news sites, business associations, or directories
- Editorial links (someone linked to you because your content was useful)
Low-value or harmful backlinks:
- Links from spammy, unrelated websites
- Links you paid for on link farms
- Links from irrelevant foreign directories
How to get backlinks for a small business
1. Local directories and citations List your business on Yelp, Yellow Pages, TripAdvisor (if relevant), your local Chamber of Commerce, and industry-specific directories. Each listing creates a backlink.
2. Suppliers and partners Ask your suppliers, business partners, or industry associations to link to your website. Many business websites have "our partners" or "trusted suppliers" pages.
3. Create linkable content Write guides, statistics, or resources that other sites want to reference. A guide like "Complete Guide to [Your Industry] in [City]" can earn local press links.
4. Local press Send press releases to local news sites when you open, win awards, or do something newsworthy. Local news sites often have good domain authority.
5. Guest posting Write articles for other blogs in your industry in exchange for a link back to your site.