What It Is & How It Works

What Is the Skyscraper Technique?

The skyscraper technique is an SEO link building tactic that involves finding competitive content other sites link to, creating something better, then encouraging sites to link to you instead.

Website owners want to link to the best possible resources.

By improving on popular content in your niche, you can “steal” its backlinks (links from other sites). And earn more links in the future.

The skyscraper method was invented by Brian Dean of Backlinko. He said the tallest skyscraper in the world is the one that gets attention—just like the best resource is the one that earns links.

What Is Skyscraper Content?

Skyscraper content is content created as part of the skyscraper technique. It’s designed to be a better version of a widely linked resource.

For example, it might be:

• More comprehensive
• More up to date
• Created by a more credible expert
• Published on a more authoritative website
• Presented more effectively

Or perhaps it contains unique insights, tools, and visuals that add value for the user.

Skyscraper content is crucial to the success of the skyscraper method. Without it, web admins have no strong incentive to link to your site.

You’ll learn more about creating skyscraper content later.

Why Use the Skyscraper Technique for SEO?

The skyscraper technique helps you earn backlinks that can drive referral traffic and benefit your SEO.

Google treats certain kinds of backlinks like votes of confidence. In general, the higher the quality...