What Are Backlinks (And Why They Matter for Your Google Ranking)
What Are Backlinks (And Why They Matter for Your Google Ranking)
If you’ve ever researched SEO, you’ve probably heard the word
backlinks.
But most business owners still wonder:
“What exactly are backlinks, and why do they matter for my website?”
Let’s break it down in the simplest way possible.
What Are Backlinks?
A backlink is when another website links to your website.
Example:
A blog writes a list of “Top Barbershops in Scottsdale” and includes a link to your business — that’s a backlink.
Think of backlinks like digital referrals.
- When a person recommends your business, others trust you more.
- When a website links to you, Google trusts you more.
The more quality backlinks your website has, the stronger your Google ranking becomes.
Why Backlinks Matter for SEO
Backlinks tell Google:
“Other websites trust this business, so it must be credible.”
Google ranks websites based on:
- Trust
- Authority
- Relevance
Backlinks are one of the top ranking factors Google uses, even in 2025.
More quality backlinks = Higher rankings = More visibility = More customers.
Quality Matters More Than Quantity
All backlinks are not equal.
Quality Backlinks (Good)Low-Quality Backlinks (Bad)From trusted websitesFrom random or spam websitesRelated to your industryUnrelated or suspicious linksEarned naturallyBought in bulk or automatedNews, blogs, business directoriesForeign or toxic domains
Getting 5 real, strong backlinks is more valuable than 500 low-quality ones.
Google can penalize sites that use fake or purchased backlinks.
Good backlinks help your ranking.
Bad backlinks can hurt your website.
How Small Businesses Can Earn Backlinks
Here are legitimate and effective ways to build them:
Local Business Directories
Google Business Profile, Yelp, BBB, Chamber of Commerce, Angi, and more.
Local Partnerships
Work with vendors, community partners, or industry connections who link back to you.
Blog Features
Examples: “Best Barbershops in Phoenix” or “Top Local Businesses in Scottsdale”.
Press & Media
Local news and business features that highlight your company.
You don’t need thousands of links — just consistent, relevant, and real ones.
Why Backlinks Matter Most for Local Search
If you want to show up when someone searches:
- “Barbershop near me”
- “Roof repair Phoenix”
- “Best coffee shops Scottsdale”
Backlinks act as proof to Google that your business is trusted and relevant.
Backlinks = votes.
More votes = better rankings.
How Next Reach Solutions Helps Small Businesses With SEO & Backlinks
Most business owners don’t have time to:
- Contact websites for links
- Submit to directories
- Build and manage SEO strategy
That’s where we step in.
At Next Reach Solutions, we handle the SEO groundwork for your business, including:
- Backlink acquisition
- Google Business Profile optimization
- Local SEO ranking strategy
- Monthly reporting and growth tracking
And if you don’t have a website yet:
We are currently offering custom websites for free
(when you sign up for our hosting and SEO plan)
- Built to convert
- Optimized to rank
- Designed for your business
Visit our website to request your free website build.
Recent Posts









