Editorial Links
An editorial link is a backlink that a publisher adds voluntarily because your content improves or supports their article, rather than because it was paid for or explicitly requested.
Key takeaways
- Editorial links are earned, not paid or traded.
- They signal genuine editorial endorsement to search engines.
- They often come from relevant, authoritative pages.
- Earning them requires linkable assets and outreach.
- They are generally higher-value than sponsored or guest post links.
Editorial links are the gold standard of backlinks because they reflect genuine editorial endorsement.
Example of an Editorial Link
A tech journalist writing a roundup of the best SEO tools includes a link to your original research on search trends. The link is placed because your data adds credibility to their article, not because you paid or asked for it.
When Should I Use This?
Focus on earning editorial links when you want to:
- Build long-term, sustainable link equity.
- Improve domain authority with high-quality, relevant backlinks.
- Avoid penalties from paid or manipulative link schemes.
- Support a content marketing or digital PR strategy.
What It Is Not
- Not a paid link: Editorial links are never bought or sold.
- Not a guest post link: Guest posts often involve a request or payment; editorial links are unsolicited.
- Not a niche edit: Niche edits are placed by request, not by editorial choice.
- Not a sponsored link: Sponsored links require disclosure and are not earned.
Quick Start: How to Earn Editorial Links
- Create a linkable asset: Original research, data, infographic, or expert guide.
- Identify relevant publishers: Journalists, bloggers, and editors in your niche.
- Promote via digital PR: Pitch your asset as a resource, not a link request.
- Use HARO or similar services: Respond to journalist queries with valuable insights.
- Monitor and nurture: Track mentions and build relationships for future opportunities.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Confusing editorial links with guest posts or paid placements.
- Treating all outreach links as editorial when the publisher was asked to include them.
- Chasing quantity over quality — relevance and authority matter more.
- Using manipulative tactics that violate search engine guidelines.
Next step
FAQ
What is an editorial link?
An editorial link is a backlink that a publisher adds voluntarily because your content adds value to their article. It is earned, not paid for or explicitly requested.
How do I get editorial links?
Create linkable assets (original research, data, tools, expert insights) and promote them through digital PR, journalist outreach, and HARO responses.
Are editorial links better than guest post links?
Generally yes, because editorial links are placed by editorial judgment and often carry more trust and relevance. Guest posts can also be valuable but may require disclosure if compensated.
Can editorial links hurt my SEO?
No, if they are truly earned and from relevant, authoritative pages. However, manipulative link building disguised as editorial can violate guidelines.
Related topics
Sources
- Google Search Central — Best source for link spam, paid links, and disclosure-related guidance.
- Ahrefs Glossary — Clear industry definition of editorial links as organic, earned backlinks.
- Google Search Central — Useful for the broader role of quality content and links in SEO.
- Search Engine Journal — Commonly covers digital PR, link building, and earned-link tactics for SEO practitioners.
Reviewed by Lucía Marín, Founding editor.