Google Search Advocate John Mueller corrected an misunderstanding regarding linking to popular websites like Wikipedia when he was conversing with SEOs online.
Mueller participated in a discussion in the r/SEO Subreddit where SEO experts share ideas and insight about the latest trends in their field.
He explained that links to websites like Wikipedia will not impact rankings in search engines, dispelling an SEO myth.
User's query
This user asked about a commonly-asked SEO question. He was wondering if linking to popular sites like Wikipedia and CNN, which have high authority in the SEO world, can affect the ranking of a smaller site.
It is about how the outbound links of a site can affect its ranking and SEO. This user was curious to find out if the search engines viewed a small website as being more trustworthy when they linked to authoritative, well-known sites.
Mueller's Straightforward Response
John Mueller replied, "Nothing ever happens." Why shouldn't it ?"?
He said that SEO experts have been holding this mistaken belief for years.
Mueller illustrated his humorous point by saying "Here is my affiliate website about handbags – and here is a link CNN & Wikipedia. Please take me now seriously, k?"
This statement highlights the myth that linking to high authority sites is equivalent to borrowing their credibilty.
Should Linking Be about User Value
Mueller stressed the importance of treating hyperlinks as content.
According to his comments, the relevance of the website and its potential value to users should be the driving force behind the choice to link it to another site rather than a desire to manipulate the search engine ranking.
Mueller said, "Name dropping a dictionary won't correct your spelling errors."
The metaphor is a good way to express his point. Linking to popular websites doesn't improve your site's quality and credibility, just as referring to a dictionary will not automatically fix your mistakes in spelling.
The wider context of HTML0
A common SEO misconception has been around for many years.
Some people believe that linking to websites with high authority will improve their rankings. This is not true.
Mueller’s remarks remind us that the search engines are most interested in providing users with relevant and high-quality content Social media marketing service.
Instead of chasing links or authority, the focus should be on linking users to sites that are genuinely useful.
In Summary
According to Mueller, the main message of his response was that users should be guided by relevance and utility when choosing links.
Linking should only be done if it enhances user experience. It is not a good way to boost search engine rankings.
The link must add value to the content. The linked content should:
- Expands upon a point
- Supports a claim with evidence, or by recommending further reading
- explains a term or concept
- Links users to products, services or other resources
Outbound links on your site should be useful and serve a specific purpose.

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