What's In A Link?

A new web designer posed the question: "They have a page that lists local attractions in the area as they are near a few parks and campgrounds. I linked the attractions' websites on the page. The client is concerned about getting permission for this and was wondering if we can get compensated or have them list us on their pages. I was wondering if you knew if there are any laws about having links to other sites on your site."

My response

One of the variables in how search engines rank pages is by authority. The higher your authority is, the higher you can rank. If many other sites link to you, then the search engines deem you as credible. (That is why as a designer, you should put a link back to your site in the footer.) That being said, you are doing the parks and attractions a favor by linking to them.

Small businesses have been known to “trade links”. If you want to make this option attractive, design a small banner ad that you can give them and one that you put on your client’s site. Another option for additional revenue is Google Adsense. They scan your content and deliver relevant ads. There are many size configurations.

Keep in mind that if linking to neighboring places is a benefit to the user, you should do it regardless of whether they take your link. I am not aware of any laws about out-bound links, but you can protect yourself in your terms of use page with a Link Disclaimer.

"Links to other sites are provided only as a courtesy to [company] customers. These links do not constitute an endorsement of products, services or information provided by other sites. Further, the inclusion of links to other sites does not imply that the other sites have given permission for inclusion of these links, or that there is any relationship between [company] and the linked site. [company] is not responsible for the privacy practices or the content of others web sites. [company] hereby disclaims any representations or warranties expressed on any site other than our own."