Website Backlinks Still Matter in 2025
Did you know that some backlinks to your website could be hurting your rankings on Google and LLM - AI search, while others are rock stars pushing you to the top? Backlink planning has changed quite a bit in the past 5 years, have you?
Backlinks remain a critical factor in SEO, serving as authoritative endorsements that signal trustworthiness and relevance to algorithms like Google and ChatGPT. Although emergent AI tools such as ChatGPT and Google’s AI Overviews are increasingly providing summarized answers without always linking directly to sources, decreasing user clicks to websites, backlinks continue to play a pivotal role in establishing brand authority in search rankings (Google Search Central, 2025).
Quality Backlinks You Need
Quality backlinks influence how Google determines which brands merit visibility and citation in AI-generated content.
A great way to enhance your presence in AI Overviews, look for ways you can gain brand mentions and improve organic rankings. Developing a backlink strategy focused on quality rather than volume or shortcuts is essential (Search Engine Journal, 2024).
Low-quality backlinks are Hurting Your Website
It is also essential to block/remove backlinks from low-quality, spam-like websites. Many marketing companies in the past have used link farms, spammy websites filled with ads or low-quality directories, which are in direct violation of search engine guidelines.
The 2025 Backlink Strategy: Key Considerations
Priority on Quality Over Quantity: A single link from a reputable, relevant site is far more valuable than numerous links from low-quality domains. High-authority backlinks act as strong endorsements that can amplify search visibility.
Balanced Approach: While both quantity and quality have roles in SEO strategies, quality should be the driving force.
Earning Links Authentically: Powerful backlinks arise from meaningful content, strategic partnerships, and well-executed digital public relations campaigns that provide genuine value to audiences.
Ethical SEO Practices: Avoid manipulative tactics or link schemes. Smart SEO is rooted in creating and promoting content that naturally attracts backlinks due to its usefulness and credibility.
Removing Bad Backlinks: Checking all backlinks coming into your website is essential to protect your website’s search engine rankings and maintain a healthy online reputation.
By aligning your SEO efforts to prioritize acquiring high-quality backlinks, you increase the likelihood that your site will be recognized by AI-driven search engines and traditional ranking algorithms alike.
Let’s Talk Backlink SEO & Your Website!
Our team has over 18 years of experience working with Google, backlinks and Search Engine Optimization. We clearly understand the nuances of the merging worlds of SEO and AI Search Overviews and how to push your company to the top,
Take advantage of our Free Consultation with a digital marketing expert.
References:
Moz. (2024). Beginner's Guide to Link Building. Moz.
Google Search Central. (2025). How AI Impacts Search. Google.
Search Engine Journal. (2024). The Future of Backlinks in an AI-Powered Search Ecosystem. SEJ.
