One of method that I often see overlooked is the use of testimonials. Most webmasters know the importance of using testimonials on their site to increase visitor trust, but few realize and/or make use of the power of testimonials as a tool to increase their sites link popularity.

Think about it. Virtually everyone selling a product loves to have as many testimonials on their site as possible. They know the more testimonials they have, the more "credibility" they have in the eyes of their potential customers. While it is getting harder and harder to email a webmaster asking for a link exchange, emailing a webmaster with a testimonial for their product or service is always accepted gratefully.

It is also common practice when using a testimonial from someone to include their name and a link to their site. This is because it proves the testimonial is real and not made up (yes...it is unfortunately common for the testimonials you see on many sites to be completely made up).

Are you starting to see the possibilities? How many people with websites are trying to sell something? How many of those people do you think would appreciate the ability to use a testimonial as to the usefulness of their product?

It is truly a perfect union. The webmaster gets something they need and in most cases, actively pursue from their customers and you get additional links to your site.

Did you know that links found within content are generally given more weight than links found in the footer or navigational area of a site? It's true. Do you know where most testimonials are found? Yep.., you guessed it...within the content of the page.

Of course, you really only want to submit a testimonial for a product that you've actually used and like, but if you start actually thinking about the number of products, etc. that you use and like, you will quickly find a number of possibilities.

So, do yourself ( and other webmasters) a favor and begin submitting testimonials when you find a product or service you are pleased with. You'll likely not only gain a new link, but you'll be helping the webmaster at the same time.

See you at the top!