1. SEO & Backlink Fundamentals
They should understand:
How backlinks affect SEO (authority, relevance, trust signals)
Google’s link quality guidelines (to avoid penalties from spammy links)
The difference between white-hat, gray-hat, and black-hat link-building techniques
Concepts like domain authority (DA/DR), anchor text diversity, and link velocity
2.Research & Prospecting
They need to find quality link opportunities:
-Proficient with SEO tools like:
Ahrefs
SEMrush
Moz
Majestic
BuzzSumo
Can analyze competitor backlinks and identify realistic link targets
Able to evaluate sites for:
Topical relevance
Domain authority / traffic
Spam score / toxic links
3. Content Collaboration
Good link builders often help create or pitch content:
Can write or suggest topics suitable for guest posting
Understand content marketing and how to make link-worthy assets (e.g. infographics, studies, guides)
Knows how to insert contextual backlinks naturally.
4.Analytical & Strategic Thinking
Able to plan campaigns targeting specific keywords or niches
Understands competitor link profiles and how to outperform them
Uses data to refine outreach strategy over time.