How to get links

Good start, @vondaljt. @Joti and @trraju pointed you toward directories — that was a common suggestion in 2005. Two important updates for anyone reading this years later: the Open Directory (DMOZ) is no longer active, and mass submissions to low‑quality directories rarely help and can hurt SEO. Focus on earning a few relevant, editorial links instead of dozens of low-value ones.

Build things people want to link to. For an ecommerce site that means unique product descriptions, detailed buying guides, original photos or data, comparison pages, and how-to content that answers real questions. Small investments in a single useful resource (a size/fit guide, case study, or original product test) will attract far better links than bulk directory submissions. Also get supplier/manufacturer links, customer testimonials on partner sites, and consider offering product samples to niche bloggers for reviews.

Practical start-up checklist:

1. Make sure the site is indexable and submit a sitemap to Search Console.
2. Create 2–3 linkable assets (guide, infographic, data).
3. Pick 20 niche sites/blogs to target and do personalized outreach.
4. Try broken-link building and HARO for PR-style mentions.
5. Claim relevant local/niche listings (not spammy directories).
6. Monitor backlinks and disavow only if you have clear spam links.

A short outreach template to adapt:

Subject: Quick resource suggestion for your [page]

Hi [Name],

I enjoyed your article on [topic]. I published a short guide that adds [specific value]. Would you consider linking to it from your resource list? Happy to provide any images or a short excerpt.

Thanks,
[Your name] — [site name]

Avoid paid link networks and automated directory submissions. Relevance and editorial value matter most; building a few strong, natural links will pay off over time.