Slack Link Building: How We Use Communities to Build Backlinks

Slack is often seen as a place for quick team updates and internal communication, but it offers much more than that.

With the right approach, Slack can be an excellent platform for getting relevant backlinks. 

From discovering the right channels to reaching out for link exchanges, we’ll walk you through the process of Slack link building.

Let’s get started!

Slack Link Building: 4 Easy Steps to Building Valuable Links

Here’s how we simplify the process of building backlinks on Slack in just 4 easy steps.

Step 1: Join Relevant Channels & Look for Link Exchange Opps

To start, we usually ask our partners which Slack channels they’re in, or more often, they guide us to the best communities for backlink opportunities. 

Another great way to discover relevant channels is by posting on LinkedIn. Letting others know you’re looking for Slack channels can get fellow link builders to recommend some great communities to join.

Once we’re in the right channels, we actively look for link exchange opportunities. There are three main ways we go about this:

1. Hashtags: We look for posts under hashtags like #linkexchange, targeting those who are open to link swaps and specifically mentioning having SaaS domains.
2. Domain Mentions: We keep an eye on posts under #linkexchange where people mention specific SaaS domains they can offer for a link exchange.
3. Direct Outreach: If someone is looking for a certain domain that we have and can offer, we reach out directly via Slack DMs to proceed with a link exchange collaboration.

However, not all link exchanges are worth the time and effort. Watch out for the following red flags:

• People who always offer paid backlinks.
• Accounts that seem fake or untrustworthy.
• Offers involving low-quality sites, like PBNs (Private Blog Networks).

So, be cautious and avoid such offers to maintain a healthy backlink profile and SEO performance.

Step 2: Familiarize Yourself with the Channel Rules

Every Slack link building channel comes with its own set of rules, and it’s crucial to follow them. Ignoring these guidelines can easily get you deactivated from the community, which is something you definitely should avoid.

For example, many channels will have specific hashtags you need to use when posting. If the hashtag is #link-exchange, make sure your post is relevant to that topic. This way, you’re not seen as spamming.

Speaking of spamming—don’t do it. It can get you a warning, and if you keep doing that, you could find yourself deactivated from the channel. 

So, always take the time to read the rules of any channel you join and be respectful to others. 

Remember, your goal is to build valuable backlinks, and breaking the rules can not only leave you empty-handed but also damage your reputation as a link building specialist.

Step 3: Let Others Know You’re Open to Link Exchanges

When we’re in need of link exchanges, we write a post to the relevant channels. This is particularly helpful when we’re working on tight deadlines and need a fast turnaround time (TAT) from others.In these posts, we always keep the message clear and to the point. We specify that we’re actively looking for link exchange opportunities and share the exact metrics of the SaaS websites we’re interested in—like domain rating and page traffic.

This clarity and transparency highly increase the chances of finding the right opportunities and connecting with professionals in the community.

Step 4: Communicate Clearly and Effectively

Effective communication is key in link building, no matter which platform you’re using—Slack, email, or LinkedIn for backlinks.

While it’s great to start link collaborations on Slack, we always recommend taking the conversation to another channel to ensure you can always stay in touch.

One of the key reasons we do this is because Slack messages can disappear over time, if you’re not a Premium user, meaning that you cannot track past conversations anymore.

Plus, if a channel gets closed or someone gets deactivated on Slack and you don’t have their contact info, you risk losing that partner. That’s why we always make sure to ask for their contact details so we can stay connected no matter what happens.

We also recommend creating a spreadsheet to keep track of all your link exchanges with Slack partners. This helps prevent any confusion about who owes what and keeps everything organized for future reference.

Here are some additional communication tips from our link builders:

Araks says “If you haven’t heard from a partner for a while on Slack, don’t just wait around. Reach out through other platforms to keep things moving.

Mariam’s tip is to “Keep your tone friendly and informal, but always polite and respectful. And whatever you do, don’t spam people—it’s annoying and can damage your personal, as well as company reputation.”

Armen recommends “Follow up every 2–3 days. Just be sure not to overdo it and avoid coming off as pushy especially if they’ve mentioned a specific date for a backlink to go live.

And, finally, Hayk says “Use a professional profile picture, your full name, and contact info. This makes you look professional and ensures others can reach out to you if you’re unavailable on Slack.”By following these simple yet effective tips, you’ll not only stay on top of your backlink campaign but also build lasting, positive relationships with your partners.

Conclusion

Slack link building can be incredibly rewarding when you approach it strategically.

By joining the right channels, following the rules, and communicating effectively, you can create valuable connections that last. 

So go ahead! Your next successful link exchange could be just one Slack message away!