Source: http://searchenginewatch.com/sew/how-to/2405738/the-value-of-links
Links have always played a critical role long before Google existed. And they will continue to have unmistakable value whether or not Google continues to recognize links as an important signal in its algorithm.
Are links still important?
Here are some reasons why links are still valuable:
- Links by far are the most common method of navigating the Web, it is also critical in navigating the various pages of a website.
- The Web wouldn’t exist without links; links piece together the Web, it connects millions of websites together.
- Exploration of the Web is centered upon links; without links, the Internet would be entirely unnavigable.
- Links build exposure, branding, relationships, authority, engagement, and even traffic outside of search.
- Links have been vital to SEO success since Google first used links as the core of its algorithm, and subsequently cornered the search market; Google continues to stand behind links as a signal in search.