Backlinks are the bread and butter of successful SEO. They help boost your site’s authority, improve rankings, and increase traffic. But let’s be real, getting quality links isn’t a walk in the park.
So, how did I get links from authority sites?
I used the best of lists strategy.
Now, before you roll your eyes at the word strategy from here, let me assure you, this is as easy as borrowing a pen from a college or university friend, but way more rewarding.
Anyway, let me break it down for you.
The Backlink Problem
If you have been in the SEO for a long time, you probably know firsthand how difficult it is to find quality niche-relevant backlinks until you use the backlinks by building free tools trick.
But fret not.
You do not need a huge budget or black hat tactics to win the backlink game in the industry. Because the best of lists, a white-hat SEO tactic that is legit, smart, and, frankly best.
What Are Best of Lists
Ever searched for the “best pizza places in New York”?
Or the “top fitness blogs to follow in 2025”?
That’s the Best of lists. It is simply a curated list of the best blogs, businesses, or resources in a specific niche. These lists are goldmines for backlinks if you know how to use them right.
How To Use Best Of Lists Strategy For Free Backlinks
Finding these lists is easier than finding memes on the internet.
Just follow these steps:
1. Search for the Best of Lists in Your Niche
Start with Google and use these search queries:
- “[keyword] blogs to follow”
- “best [keyword] posts 2025”
- “top [keyword] blogs to follow” + “2025”
For example, I search for “fitness blogs to follow”:
And found a list titled, The 10 best fitness blogs.
2. Identify Relevant Best of Lists
You will find lists like:
- 10 Best Fitness Blogs to Follow in 2025
- Top 15 Digital Marketing Blogs You Can’t Miss
- 10 SEO Tools That Should Be Used
Only target relevant blogs that match your niche.
3. Email Outreach
Once you have found a list, reach out to the blog or website owner with an email that will make them laugh, smile, or at least not delete it immediately.
You can use the email template below:
Subject: Love Your “Best of” List.
Hi [Name],
I just came across your post, [Title of the Best of List], and I have to say, it is fantastic. I especially loved how you included [specific blog/resource].
I run [Your Blog/Website Name], where I share [brief description of your content]. I think my article, [Title of Your Article], would be a great addition to your list.
It’s packed with actionable tips on [brief description of your article].
Here’s the link: [Your Article Link]
I’d love to hear your thoughts, and I’d be thrilled to be included in your next update. Of course, I’d be happy to share your list with my audience, too.
Thanks for considering,
[Your Name]
Bonus Tip: Keep Building Relationships
Getting on one list is great.
But building relationships with blog owners is even better. Share their content, comment on posts, and stay on their radar. They’ll be more likely to include you in future lists or collaborate with you.
Why This Works Like Magic
When you appear on a best of list:
- You get a backlink from an authority site
- You gain exposure to a relevant audience
- You can build a long-term relationship with the blog owner
It’s a win-win-win.
For example, I used the same technique and got 123 backlinks.
That’s pretty awesome.
Final Thoughts
The best of lists strategy isn’t rocket science.
It is just a smart, white-hat SEO technique. With a bit of research and genuine outreach, you can secure quality backlinks (for free), build relationships, and grow your website’s authority.
So, why wait?
Find those lists and start building backlinks.
But don’t worry, your secret’s safe with me.
More Strategies:
- 54,900+ Visitors Using Relevant Keywords Strategy
- Find Untapped Keywords Easily Using The Wikipedia
- Rankings Went From #54 To #9 Using Search Intent
Premium Strategies: