So where do I start when finding link targets? Usually I begin by reviewing the keyword research. Keywords provide the foundation for most successful link-building strategies. I usually sort my keyword research data in several ways. I want to know which keywords and phrases convert for a Web site and seek out opportunities to expand this list by way of link building for targeted terms — especially those terms for which rival sites rank better. [Read] Finding Link Targets

Where can you go to find relevant, descriptive links that will help transfer trust and authority to your Web site? Consider reviewing and then raiding rival sites’ inbound links to get started. A few high-quality inbound links can sometimes make all the difference in the world, if the world consists of improving your site’s positioning in the search engines. At the very least, finding and acquiring a few high-quality links will help put you on par with rival sites’ results. All you really need is a place to get started. Why not start with free and low-cost tools for assessing the quality of back links. [read] SEO Tools: Link Analysis, Part 3