Profile creation, forum posting and blog commenting were classic off-page tactics. Today, mass use of them is low value and can look like spam. Used sparingly and genuinely, they still help with brand presence and relationships.
Profile creation
Creating profiles on hundreds of sites just to place a link no longer moves rankings. Do create strong profiles on platforms your customers actually use: LinkedIn, relevant industry communities, and review or directory sites for your sector. Use a consistent name, logo and description so your brand is easy to recognise.
Forum posting
Active forums are where people ask real questions. Helpful, honest replies build reputation and can send qualified visitors. Google’s spam policies specifically call out forum comments with optimised links, so never post just to drop a link or stuff keywords into your signature.
Blog commenting
A thoughtful comment on a relevant article can start a relationship with the author. Most comment links are nofollow or ugc and moderators remove obvious promotion. Use your real name, add something the article did not cover, and link only if it truly helps readers.
Do and don’t
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Join a handful of relevant communities | Register on hundreds of unrelated sites |
| Answer questions fully and honestly | Post generic comments like “Great post!” |
| Disclose your connection to your site | Hide your affiliation |
| Read and follow community rules | Use bots or bulk tools |
| Link only when it adds value | Repeat the same keyword anchor again and again |