Link intersection finds sites linking to multiple competitors but not you. These represent high-probability link opportunities since they already link to similar content in your niche.
Why a Link Intersect Analysis Matters
A link intersect analysis is a key part of a modern SEO strategy because it is a direct path to a high-quality backlink. A website that is already linking to two or more of your competitors is a clear signal that they are interested in your niche. They have a history of linking to your type of content, which makes them a prime target for a link outreach campaign. A link intersect analysis helps you find a backlink opportunity that is often overlooked by your competitors. It’s about finding the low-hanging fruit in your industry. It’s a key part of building a resilient and sustainable SEO strategy.
Across Different CMS Platforms
The management of a link intersect analysis is a content and technical SEO strategy that can be applied to any CMS.
WordPress
WordPress users can easily manage their link intersect by using a variety of tools. A good SEO plugin like Yoast SEO or Rank Math can help you track your backlinks and to ensure you are using a variety of keywords that are relevant to your content.
Shopify
On Shopify, a link intersect analysis is essential for your product descriptions and blog posts. You can use a variety of tools to find a backlink from a relevant website. A link from a high-quality blog or a news site can significantly boost your rankings.
Wix
Wix has a streamlined, user-friendly system, but you can still optimize for it. The platform’s built-in SEO tools make it easy to manage your titles, meta descriptions, and on-page content.
Webflow
Webflow gives you granular control over your website’s design and code, which is perfect for a sophisticated link building strategy. You can use it to create a perfectly structured page that is optimized for a specific keyword or set of keywords.
Custom CMS
With a custom CMS, you have the most control but also the most responsibility. You can build a system that automatically tracks and analyzes your link intersect and provides your content creators with data-driven insights.
Across Different Industries
The way you use a link intersect analysis will depend on your industry and your goals.
E-commerce
E-commerce sites can use it to find new backlink opportunities. A site that sells running shoes could find a backlink from a blog that reviews running shoes.
Local Businesses
Local businesses can use a link intersect analysis to find new backlink opportunities. A local restaurant could get a backlink from a local newspaper or a local blog.
SaaS Companies
SaaS companies can use it to find new backlink opportunities. A company that sells project management software could get a backlink from a blog that reviews project management tools.
Blogs
Blogs are a great way to capitalize on it. A blog that writes about cooking can get a backlink from a blog that writes about baking.
Do’s and Don’ts of a Link Intersect Analysis
Do’s
- Do use a link intersect tool. A tool like SEMrush or Ahrefs is a must.
- Do find a backlink from a relevant website. A link from a high-quality, relevant website is more valuable than a hundred from a low-quality website.
- Do use a variety of link building tactics. A good link building strategy includes a mix of guest posting, broken link building, and a backlink from a news site.
Don’ts
- Don’t use a link intersect tool to find a backlink from a low-quality website. This can harm your SEO.
- Don’t ignore a user’s intent. A backlink should be used with a user’s intent in mind.
- Don’t focus on a single link building tactic. This is a risky and outdated approach.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Failing to do a link intersect analysis: This is a basic but critical step. You cannot improve what you do not measure.
- Ignoring a user’s intent: A backlink should be used with a user’s intent in mind.
- Focusing on a single link building tactic: This is a risky and outdated approach.
FAQs
How do I do a link intersect analysis?
You can do a link intersect analysis by using an SEO tool like Semrush, Ahrefs, or Moz. You will input your domain and the domains of your competitors, and the tool will generate a list of websites that are linking to them but not to you.
What is the difference between a link intersect analysis and a backlink gap analysis?
They are essentially the same thing. A link intersect analysis is a technical term for a process, while a backlink gap analysis is a more user-friendly term for the same process.
Is a link intersect analysis a white hat SEO tactic?
Yes, it is a white hat SEO tactic. It is a data-driven approach to finding new link building opportunities, and it is a key part of a competitive analysis.
Can a website with a low domain authority use a link intersect analysis?
Yes, a website with a low domain authority can use a link intersect analysis. It is a great way to find new backlink opportunities and to build your authority over time.
What is the difference between a link intersect and a backlink?
A backlink is a link from one website to another. It is a strategic, data-driven approach to finding new backlink opportunities.
