What is the Skyscraper Technique and Why Does It Work?
The skyscraper technique is a link-building strategy popularized by Brian Dean of Backlinko. It revolves around finding high-performing content, creating something even better, and reaching out to the same audience for backlinks. By producing superior content, you make your content the new "go-to" resource, attracting valuable backlinks naturally.
How It Works: The Core Steps
The skyscraper technique involves three core steps:
- Step 1: Find high-ranking content in your niche that has earned a lot of backlinks.
- Step 2: Create a more comprehensive, updated, and valuable version of that content.
- Step 3: Outreach to the websites that linked to the original content, offering your superior version as a resource.
Case Study: Earning 120 Backlinks in 3 Months with the Skyscraper Technique
A digital marketing agency applied the skyscraper technique to an article titled “Ultimate Guide to SEO.” By researching the top-ranking content and improving on it with 10+ additional sections, more detailed insights, and an interactive checklist, they were able to acquire 120 backlinks over 3 months. The key to success? Outreach to websites that already linked to the original guide.
Finding the Right Content to Skyscrape
Search for Content with Lots of Backlinks
Start by using tools like Ahrefs, Semrush, or Moz to find content that is already ranking and attracting backlinks in your niche. Focus on these factors:
- Content with a high number of backlinks
- Topics with high search volume but low competition
- Articles that are outdated or missing crucial information
Use the Content Explorer Tool (Ahrefs)
With Ahrefs’ Content Explorer, you can enter a keyword or topic and find top-ranking pages based on their backlink profile. From there, choose content that you can improve upon.
Creating Superior Content: Making Your Version Shine
Enhance Depth and Detail
Your content should provide more in-depth information than the original. If the existing article is 1,500 words, aim for 2,000–3,000 words. Add case studies, examples, statistics, and actionable tips.
Use Visuals, Infographics, and Tools
Visual content like infographics, charts, and interactive tools significantly improve user engagement and linkability. People are more likely to link to content that provides unique, easily digestible visuals.
Update Statistics and References
If the original content is outdated, ensure your version includes the latest data and trends. This shows that you’re offering the most current and relevant information available.
Make It More Accessible and User-Friendly
Consider making your content mobile-friendly, adding a clear table of contents, and including call-to-action buttons or download options. The easier you make it for users to engage with your content, the better your chances of acquiring backlinks.
Outreach: Getting Your Content in Front of the Right Audience
Personalize Your Outreach Emails
Outreach is a critical step in the skyscraper technique. When you reach out to websites that have linked to the original content, your email must be personal and to the point. Focus on explaining why your content is better and more valuable. Here’s a template you can follow:
Hi [Name], I hope you're doing well. I recently came across your article, [URL of the original article], and found it to be a fantastic resource. I wanted to let you know that I’ve put together an updated and even more comprehensive guide on the topic: [Link to your improved content]. I believe your readers would benefit from the additional insights I’ve included, and I’d be honored if you’d consider linking to it in place of the older guide. Thank you for your time and consideration! Best regards, [Your Name]
Follow-Up Emails
After your first outreach email, don’t hesitate to follow up. Sometimes your message might get lost in their inbox, so sending a polite reminder after 5-7 days is a good practice. A follow-up message can increase your response rate by up to 50%.
Why the Skyscraper Technique Works
It Relies on Existing Backlinks
One of the main reasons this technique works is that you are not starting from scratch. The content you're improving upon already has a proven track record of attracting backlinks, so you’re capitalizing on an existing interest.
It’s a Natural, White-Hat Approach
Unlike manipulative link-building tactics, the skyscraper technique focuses on providing real value. When executed correctly, it’s a legitimate, sustainable way to earn backlinks that boost your site's credibility and authority.
It Appeals to Website Owners
Website owners are more likely to link to your content if it’s more valuable, detailed, and relevant than what they’re currently linking to. You're offering something that enhances their content—making it an easy sell.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using the Skyscraper Technique
- Don’t Overlook Quality: Your content needs to truly add value. Simply creating longer content won’t cut it if it’s not useful to the reader.
- Don't Spam Your Outreach: Don’t send generic outreach emails or bombard webmasters with multiple messages.
- Don’t Forget to Update Your Links: When outreach is successful, ensure that you’re not just acquiring backlinks, but also optimizing your content regularly to stay ahead of competitors.
Tracking Results and Adjusting Your Strategy
Monitor Backlink Acquisition
Use tools like Ahrefs or Google Search Console to monitor which websites are linking to your new content. Track the increase in backlinks to see how well your skyscraper technique is working.
Observe Search Rankings
After acquiring backlinks, monitor how your keyword rankings change. The skyscraper technique can significantly improve your rankings when done correctly, so keep an eye on any upward movement.
Analyze Traffic Growth
The backlinks you gain from successful skyscraper outreach should lead to more organic traffic. Use Google Analytics to track the referral traffic from the newly acquired backlinks.
Conclusion: The Power of Creating Better Content
The skyscraper technique works because it leverages the power of superior content and targeted outreach. By improving on existing content, creating something truly valuable, and reaching out to the right people, you can secure high-quality backlinks that propel your website’s authority and rankings.
Next Steps
- Find 5 high-performing articles in your niche with proven backlinks.
- Create more valuable, in-depth versions of these articles.
- Reach out to the websites linking to these original articles and offer your improved content.
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