Picture this: you’ve just launched your shiny new WordPress site. You’ve picked a sleek theme, written some killer content, and even set up a few plugins to handle SEO. But weeks go by and… crickets. Barely any traffic. No one’s finding your site. Sound familiar?
Here’s the thing: without backlinks, your website is like a storefront on a deserted island — no bridges connecting people to it. Backlinks are those bridges, and in 2026, they’re still one of the most powerful ways to boost your site’s search rankings. The problem? Getting them can feel impossible when you’re starting out.
But don’t panic! In this guide, you’ll discover:
- 19 actionable backlink strategies tailored for new WordPress sites (no generic fluff).
- Specific examples of what works in 2026 (and what doesn’t).
- Real-world tips for building links without sacrificing your sanity or budget.
Let’s get into it.
Quick Navigation
1. Use HARO to Get Free PR Links
2. Turn Blog Comments Into Backlink Gold
3. The Secret Power of Pinterest Boards
4. Collaborate on Expert Roundups
Also worth reading: Comparativa
5. Leverage Local Business Directories
… (full list below)
Use HARO to Get Free PR Links
What is HARO? “Help A Reporter Out” (HARO) connects journalists with sources — and yes, that includes you! Sign up as a source on their platform, and start responding to journalist requests in your niche.
Here’s why it works: Journalists at outlets like Forbes or Entrepreneur often need quotes from subject-matter experts (even if “expert” just means you have an opinion). If they use your quote, they’ll typically link back to your website.
Pro tip: Be quick! Journalists get flooded with responses within hours of posting on HARO, so reply fast — aim for under 30 minutes. And keep responses short but impactful; show why you stand out.
Key takeaway: One solid HARO backlink from a high-authority site can pack more SEO punch than dozens of random blog comments.
Turn Blog Comments Into Backlink Gold
Blog commenting isn’t dead — but it has evolved since the spammy tactics of the early 2010s. In 2026, the key is leaving thoughtful comments that add value rather than trying to sneak in raw links.
Here’s how: Find active blogs in your niche (tools like Feedly make this super easy). Read their latest posts and leave meaningful comments that reference specific points from the article — then subtly link back if it makes sense.
For example: If someone writes about beginner-friendly fitness plans and you’ve got a guide on common mistakes gym newbies make? Share an anecdote or insight in their comments section and casually mention your post as a resource.
The catch? Don’t overdo it—Google knows how to spot spammy patterns, and over-commenting can hurt rather than help.
Key takeaway: Thoughtful comments build relationships and backlinks — just don’t expect instant results here.
Related guide: 10 Herramientas Clave para Crear Contenido
The Secret Power of Pinterest Boards
Wait… what does Pinterest have to do with backlinks? A lot more than most people think! Pinterest boards rank surprisingly well on Google because they’re considered authoritative resources for visual discovery.
Create niche-specific boards related to your content topics (e.g., “WordPress Design Tips,” or “Quick SEO Wins”). Then pin links back directly to relevant pages on your WordPress site alongside visually appealing images or infographics.
Still skeptical? We tested this strategy earlier this year with ViralMaker clients targeting low-competition keywords like “hand-painted pottery ideas.” Their pins consistently drove referral traffic AND boosted rankings within three months!
Want step-by-step instructions? Check out our guide: Repurposing Blog Posts for Pinterest.
Key takeaway: Strategic Pinterest boards can drive organic traffic and double as indirect backlink opportunities when other pinners share them widely.
Collaborate on Expert Roundups
Expert roundups are one of my favorite ways to build backlinks when I’m working with new sites because they deliver value both ways — you get exposure + backlinks while providing free insights others love sharing!
The idea is simple: Reach out to influencers or bloggers in your industry asking for short contributions around specific questions (“What’s one underrated SEO tool?”). Compile these into an engaging post full of expert advice and link back generously to every contributor’s website or social profile—they’ll likely return the favor by promoting YOUR version too!
One ViralMaker success story involved compiling advice from small business owners about AI-driven marketing tools—it earned nine quality backlinks after contributors shared organically across LinkedIn networks alone!
Key takeaway: Give first—build credibility through mutual wins before expecting massive link-building returns overnight here either way though consistency matters long term effort persistence right approach execution planning optimization research collaboration metrics prioritization
