Backlinks are one of the most powerful ranking factors in SEO, but building high-quality backlinks can be challenging. One of the most effective ways to earn backlinks is by using the Skyscraper Technique. This technique is all about creating better content than what’s already ranking and then reaching out to sites that linked to the original content, suggesting they link to your superior version.

In this article, we’ll break down the Skyscraper Technique, explain how it works, and guide you through the steps of using it to get powerful backlinks.

What is the Skyscraper Technique?

The Skyscraper Technique was coined by Brian Dean of Backlinko. The basic idea behind the technique is simple:

  1. Find content that already has a lot of backlinks.

  2. Create a better, more comprehensive version of that content.

  3. Reach out to the websites that linked to the original content and ask them to link to your better resource instead.

The Skyscraper Technique is so effective because it leverages existing backlinks and content that’s already proven to attract links. When done right, this method can help you build high-quality backlinks that will significantly improve your site’s SEO.

Why the Skyscraper Technique Works

The reason the Skyscraper Technique is so successful is that it taps into a basic human instinct: the desire to be better. Website owners, bloggers, and content creators want to link to the best possible resource for their audience. If you provide something better, more informative, and more useful than the original content they linked to, they’ll be more likely to link to your content instead.

Here’s why the technique is effective:

  • Proven demand: The content you’re improving is already attracting backlinks, meaning there’s demand for this type of content.

  • You provide more value: When you create better content, you’re offering more comprehensive information, updated facts, and/or engaging multimedia that make your content more valuable.

  • It’s an easy sell: When you reach out, you’re offering website owners an improved resource to link to, which benefits them and their audience.

How to Implement the Skyscraper Technique: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you understand the basics, let’s go through the steps to successfully implement the Skyscraper Technique.

Step 1: Find High-Performing Content to Improve

The first step is finding content that is already ranking well and attracting backlinks. Here’s how you can do that:

Use SEO Tools:

Tools like Ahrefs, BuzzSumo, or SEMrush are perfect for finding high-performing content in your niche. Look for content that is:

  • Ranked on the first page of Google.

  • Getting a lot of social shares and backlinks.

Search for Relevant Topics:

Search for keywords or topics related to your niche and identify content that has the most backlinks and shares. For example:

  • Look for top 10 lists, comprehensive guides, or resources that rank well for important keywords.

Tip: Focus on evergreen content—content that stays relevant over time—so your improved version will continue to generate backlinks long-term.

Step 2: Create a Better Version of the Content

Once you’ve identified content that’s performing well, it’s time to create something better. Here’s how you can do that:

Make the Content More Comprehensive:

Expand the original content by adding more details, examples, case studies, and research. If the original post lacks depth, you can offer more value by explaining things in greater detail.

Add Visuals:

Visuals like infographics, charts, and images can make your content more engaging. If the original content lacks visuals or is difficult to understand, adding clear and appealing visuals will set your content apart.

Update Outdated Information:

Ensure your content is up to date. If the original post has outdated statistics, old examples, or broken links, updating this information can make your version more relevant and valuable.

Improve Readability:

Make your content easier to read by using shorter paragraphs, bullet points, and subheadings. Organize your information logically to enhance user experience.

Step 3: Find Websites That Linked to the Original Content

Now that you’ve created a better version of the content, it’s time to find the websites that have already linked to the original article. To do this:

Use Backlink Tools:

Use backlink tools like Ahrefs, Moz, or SEMrush to find out which sites have linked to the original content. Most of these tools allow you to see the backlinks for any URL.

Look for Relevant Sites:

Make sure the websites linking to the original content are relevant to your industry. These are the sites you want to reach out to because they’ll be more likely to link to your improved content.

Step 4: Reach Out and Ask for the Link

Once you’ve identified the websites that linked to the original content, it’s time to reach out and ask them to link to your improved version. Here’s how to do it effectively:

Craft a Personalized Email:

Write a personalized, polite email that clearly explains why your content is a better resource than the one they linked to. Focus on the value your content provides and how it will benefit their readers.

Example Outreach Email:

Subject: A Better Resource for Your [Topic] Article

Hi [Name],

I hope you’re doing well! I came across your article on [Topic] and noticed that it links to [Original Content]. I’ve recently published an updated and more comprehensive version of that content, and I believe it could be a great fit for your readers.

My guide covers [specific improvements you made] and includes [new insights, statistics, or resources] that weren’t available in the original. Here’s the link to the post: [Your URL].

I’d love for you to consider linking to it as a more valuable resource for your article. Thanks so much for your time and consideration!

Best regards,
[Your Name]

Keep It Friendly and Brief:

Keep your outreach emails short, polite, and to the point. Remember, the goal is to show the recipient that you’re providing value to their audience, not just asking for a link.

Step 5: Follow Up (If Needed)

If you don’t hear back after your initial outreach, don’t be afraid to send a polite follow-up email. People get busy, and a gentle reminder can help bring your email back to the top of their inbox.

Final Thoughts

The Skyscraper Technique is a powerful strategy for building high-quality backlinks and improving your SEO. By creating better, more comprehensive content and reaching out to websites that have already linked to similar resources, you can earn backlinks that will boost your search rankings.

The key to success with this technique is to focus on providing real value. The more valuable and relevant your content is, the more likely others are to link to it.

If you’re looking to boost your SEO efforts and build powerful backlinks, the Skyscraper Technique is a proven approach that can help you get the results you’re after.