Five things to remember about forming relationships as an Outreacher

Five things to remember about forming relationships as an Outreacher   

When you think of outreach, you may think of a cold approach, but effective outreach is about building long-lasting, meaningful relationships. Instead of focusing on quick wins, you should nurture these connections to build lasting partnerships and boost your success in the long run. Here’s how to approach outreach whilst keeping relationship-building in mind.

1. Think Long-Term

Initial outreach shouldn’t be just a one-off interaction. Even if your goal is a single link or collaboration, approaching with a long-term mindset will set you up for ongoing success. Establishing rapport can lead to future collaborations that benefit both parties.

2. Personalise Your Approach

Skip generic cold emails and opt for a tailored approach: 

• Write bespoke emails for each publisher: Take the time to write personalised, individual emails for each site you’re contacting.  
• Suggest content their readers will love: Put thought into your content ideas and provide unique topics that their readers will want to engage with.  

3. Avoid Transactional Emails

First impressions matter, so make your outreach feel human: 

• Clear subject lines: Use concise and professional subject lines that pique curiosity without being overly salesy. 

• Change your opening lines: Start with something specific about their work to show authenticity. 
• Provide value: Focus on how your collaboration can benefit them rather than just asking for something.

4. Offer Collaboration, Not Demands

Instead of going straight to your request, frame your outreach as an invitation to collaborate. Requesting their input fosters a two-way relationship and reduces the transactional feel of your email. Offer value, you may want something out of this exchange but offer them something too. Focus on what you’ll provide your contact with and how it can help them.  For example, if you’re offering a guest post, explain how you think this will be valuable to them and their audience.   

5. Build Trust for Future Partnerships

Establishing trust and credibility with contacts can save you time and effort in the long run. When contacts view you as a reliable partner, they’re more likely to reach out directly, leading to sustained collaboration. Consistently delivering quality content and honouring commitments helps establish this trust, creating opportunities for stronger placements and exclusive link-building options. Over time, these relationships make outreach more efficient and improve the impact of your SEO efforts. 

Takeaway

Shift from a transactional approach and focus on building relationships when you Outreach. Personalise your messages, offer value, and focus on fostering trust to create lasting partnerships that benefit both you and your contacts.