Introduction
AI-generated content is everywhere, Google’s link spam updates are relentless — and yet, backlinks remain the web’s strongest currency.
To find out what really works now, we asked 30 top SEO experts one simple question:
“If you had to start link building from scratch in 2025, what’s the one strategy you’d use?”
Here’s what they said — unfiltered, practical, and incredibly insightful.
1. Build Real-World Relationships (Tim Soulo, Ahrefs)
“I’d focus on in-person and digital relationship building. The best links in 2025 come from conversations, not campaigns.”
2. Leverage Data-Driven Assets (Aleyda Solis, Orainti)
“Original data still wins. Publish something that others in your niche need to cite, and you’ll earn backlinks passively.”
3. Go Local, Not Global (Cyrus Shepard, Zyppy)
“Local relevance is the new authority. Even global brands should think region-first for SEO.”
4. Podcast and YouTube Mentions (Lily Ray, Amsive Digital)
“Backlinks are expanding beyond blogs. Mentions on authoritative multimedia platforms carry real weight.”
5. AI-Assisted Prospecting, Human Outreach (Kevin Indig, Growth Memo)
“AI is great for finding targets — but the outreach must still feel 100% human. Personal tone beats automation.”
Common Threads Across All 30 Responses
After analyzing every expert’s input, three clear trends emerged:
- Authenticity > Automation
- Data and insight-led content outperform generic guides
- Personal branding drives backlinks indirectly but powerfully
Final Thoughts
The experts agree: the future of link building in 2025 is human again.
No shortcuts, no mass spam. Just valuable content, relationships, and long-term reputation building.
Ready to Apply These Expert Tactics?
Want to see how these principles translate into ROI? Book a strategy session with our SEO team and let’s build your authority from the ground up.
