Backlinks are still a core part of SEO in 2025, but the way we earn them has evolved. AI-driven search engines and large language models (LLMs) now value contextual mentions as much as traditional PageRank.

This means high-quality backlinks are about more than just improving rankings — they also boost brand discoverability across search, AI platforms, and niche communities.

Here are 7 proven strategies to earn backlinks that deliver lasting results.

1. Become a Source for Reporters and Bloggers

Platforms like Featured.com, Help a Reporter Out, and Help a B2B Writer connect you with journalists and bloggers who need expert input.
By responding quickly with concise, valuable quotes, you can earn mentions and backlinks from reputable sources that both Google and AI trust.

2. Use Guest Posting for Relevance

Guest posting still works — when done with a strategic focus.
Target publishers in your niche who already rank for your topics and have a genuine audience. Create content that naturally incorporates your brand into the solution, making it more likely to be cited in AI search results and niche publications.

3. Build Links from Outdated Resources

Many websites still link to outdated tools, brands, or statistics. By identifying these pages and offering updated resources (yours), you can earn backlinks while helping site owners improve their content. This approach, known as the “Moving Man Method,” is a win-win for both parties.

4. Create Citation Magnets

Some content formats attract citations naturally:

• Original research and statistics
• Free tools or calculators
• Templates and checklists

When these resources solve a real problem, people and AI tools reference them — earning you backlinks without ongoing outreach.

5. Name Your Strategies

Giving your unique methods a memorable name — like “The Skyscraper Technique” — makes them easier to share, remember, and search for. Named strategies often become part of industry language, getting cited in blog posts, videos, and AI-generated answers.

6. Launch an Affiliate Program for Brand Coverage

Affiliate programs can do more than drive sales. They inspire affiliates to create valuable content — from reviews to tutorials — that boosts your brand presence online. This leads to organic mentions and backlinks that improve long-term visibility.

7. Reclaim Unlinked Brand Mentions

If your brand is already recognized, there may be dozens of unlinked mentions out there. By monitoring these mentions with search operators or brand monitoring tools, you can reach out and request a link — turning passive recognition into active authority.

At SEO Guru NYC, a leading SEO agency in New York, we craft customized strategies that align with your business goals and target audience. From technical SEO to content optimization, our team focuses on delivering measurable results that drive growth. Ready to turn search traffic into loyal customers? Partner with us and start your success story today.