Recently, we have been to an SEO workshop where we met many SEOs complaining about the ineffectiveness of the skyscraper technique.
Guess what? Our CEO’s reply was spectacular. He said:
“The problem lies in your execution, not the process.”
Well, let’s break it down. We at our agency firmly believe that the skyscraper technique can still fetch you amazing results if done right!
Skyscraper Technique isn't Outdated, BUT Your Outreach is!
So, what’s the perfect outreach strategy for 2024 and beyond?
In today’s article, we will share how you can improve your skyscraper conversion rate by 20%.
By the end of this article, you will figure out where most people go wrong and how you can avoid those mistakes.
But before getting into them, let’s start with the fundamentals.
What Is The Skyscraper Technique?
Back in 2015, Backlinko’s Brian Dean introduced new link building techniques. Yes, we are talking about skyscraper technique.
So, what is the technique?
The Fundamentals Of The Skyscraper Technique Are:
- Finding linkable content that has already attracted a lot of backlinks.
- Analyzing the areas of improvement and making them even better.
- Finally, reaching out to the website owner and pitching them for a backlink.
In fact, another angle to it can be - observing your competitors' actions and then surpassing them.
Moreover, the skyscraper technique boosts your authority. When you enhance existing content, you position yourself as an industry leader. This elevates your credibility, which is crucial in the cutthroat world of online marketing. Trust is the foundation of customer engagement.
Now, an example to illustrate. Imagine you're in the fitness niche, and a competitor has a blog post on "Top 10 Home Workouts." The skyscraper move involves crafting an improved version – say, "Ultimate Guide to Home Fitness: 15 Workouts Backed by Experts." You're not just adding more; you're enhancing quality, making it the go-to resource.
Hold on…
There is a catch.
Crafting superior content in your industry is a winning strategy, but be wary – spammy outreach emails won't secure those coveted authority links.
Instead of building credibility, you will likely find your efforts consigned to the email trash bin.
The Biggest Mistake With Skyscraper Technique
If you are a blogger or a website owner, you probably have come across this email request:
Subject: Exclusive Opportunity for [Recipient's Website]
Hi [Recipient's Name],
My name is [Your Name]. I loved your blog while searching for a topic on Google.
I noticed that you shared a backlink to this (recipient's blog name) And, I want to say that I have a better guide on the same topic.
Would you mind linking to my content? I believe that a partnership between us could lead to mutually beneficial outcomes.
Could we schedule a brief call to discuss a potential collaboration? I am available at your convenience this week. Please let me know your availability.
Looking forward to your positive response.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
So, What Was Wrong With This Outreach Email?
Basically, emails of this sort:
- Lack personalization.
- Offer zero value.
- Mirror what everyone else is doing.
Reaching out to big website owners demands a smarter approach. The generic template flooding inboxes won't cut it.
Big site owners, overwhelmed with such emails, don't have time for generic pitches.
Copy-pasting won't make your "new, better resource" stand out. The reality? Your email is just another drop in an overflowing inbox.
Fishing for links with this method might yield a few, but they won't be from authoritative blogs.
Those considering your pitch likely run small blogs, rendering the links less valuable.
Quality beats quantity. To make a big impact, send personalized emails to influential bloggers, offering valuable content. It's about standing out from the barrage, not adding to it.
Getting one quality backlink using this technique is better than many low-quality ones. Cast a net for authority, not mediocrity. It's not about the number of links but the impact of each.
2 Outreach Hacks For Ultimate Success With Skyscraper Technique
Change your mindset to change your results. The below-mentioned pointers are not just hacks - these are powerful strategies to change your mindset.
Hack 1: The Power Of "Them-First" Approach
Picture this: you wake up with a noticeable pimple on your forehead. It's embarrassing, and you worry about what others might think. Oddly enough, most people are too absorbed in their own concerns to pay much attention to your pimple.
So, when it comes to outreach emails, treating your message like breaking news—another disaster to be ignored—is a common mistake. To stand out, you need to flip the script. Instead of adopting a "me first" approach, focus on making it all about your recipient.
Understanding that people prioritize their own interests is the first step. So, craft your outreach email with the recipient in mind, much like addressing a pimple on their forehead. Show them the benefits!
In fact, ask yourself: What’s unique about your content that is not on the web? What benefits will their readers get from your content?
Compliment them genuinely, stroke their ego, and highlight a problem they might not even be aware of.
You capture their attention by positioning yourself as the solution to their problem. It's not about bombarding them with your achievements; it's about resonating with their needs.
Play to their ego, and watch how a personalized approach turns your outreach emails into attention-grabbing assets.
Hack 2: Build Relationships, Not Just Links
Traditional link-building tactics often fall flat when it comes to reaching out to authority bloggers. The key lies in understanding that relationships are the real currency in the digital landscape.
Instead of fixating on building links, shift your focus to building genuine relationships.
Authority blog owners receive countless pitches daily, and generic templates quickly reach the trash bin. To break through the noise, your outreach email needs a personal touch.
Here's A Simple Three-Step Formula:
- Genuine Compliment: Start by acknowledging their expertise or a recent achievement. Make it specific and sincere, steering clear of generic praises.
- Highlight A Problem: Shed light on an issue they might be facing or something they're missing out on. Show that you've done your homework and genuinely care about their challenges.
- Offer A Solution: Be the problem-solver. Offer assistance without expecting anything in return. This builds trust and positions you as a valuable asset.
Crafting an outreach email with these three elements dramatically increases your response rate. The secret is in providing value upfront without immediately asking for anything in return.
This establishes a foundation for a relationship that can be leveraged later on.
In the world of digital marketing, relationships are gold.
Extending a genuine favour, especially one that wasn't solicited, creates a sense of indebtedness. This goodwill forms the basis of a connection that goes beyond a mere link exchange.
Relationship-First Email Template - Get Sure Shot Replies
Now, let’s look at an email template that will separate you.
Hey {name},
I recently delved into your journey of achieving a staggering 33,158 visits in just 45 days. Your detailed breakdowns position you as a leader in the field.
Emailing you because I've noticed a few technical glitches on your website that might be slowing it down.
Impressed by your work, I'd be delighted to share some tips with you, absolutely free.
Would you mind if I sent over a handful of suggestions?
Thanks for your time {name},
{email signature}
Anatomy Of Relationship-First Email Template
By now, we have shared two templates. The earlier one was an example of what usually leads you to make a mistake. However, the latter one is tested and tried by our experts.
So, what is the secret sauce for high converting emails for skyscraper technique?
Well, Let’s Break It Down For You:
- Personalized Greeting: Start with a warm and personalized greeting. Use the recipient's name to create an instant connection.
- Compliment And Acknowledgment: Express genuine admiration for their achievements. Mention specific details, like their impressive 33,158 visits in 45 days, to show that you've done your homework.
- Identification Of Issues: Politely highlight that you've noticed some technical issues on their website. This demonstrates your attention to detail and sets the stage for the value you're about to offer.
- Offering Value For Free: Emphasize your willingness to provide valuable tips without any cost. This not only showcases your expertise but also establishes a foundation for reciprocity.
- Seeking Permission: Respectfully ask if it's okay to send over your suggestions. This step ensures you are not imposing but genuinely offering assistance.
- Express Gratitude: Conclude with a thank-you note, expressing appreciation for their time and consideration.
- Email Signature: Sign off with a professional yet friendly email signature. Include your name, position, and any relevant links.
Bottom Line
Sending recipient-focused emails garners more responses— a proven fact. Don't use common, ineffective techniques for links.
Instead, Apply the tactics above in your next outreach for optimal results!
Our agency excels in link building and authority outreach. We specialize in offering scalable outreach campaigns backed by long-term relationships.
We have a dedicated outreach team that takes all of your concerns. From prospecting and initiating the talks to ensuring quality links, we do everything on your behalf.
If you feel like talking to our expert team, book your free strategy call.
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