Article submission is one of the oldest link-building tactics in SEO.
It still gets talked about.
But most people use it badly.
And that’s the problem.
What Article Submission Actually Is
Article submission means writing content and publishing it on third-party platforms.
Usually:
- Article directories
- Content-sharing websites
- Industry blogs
- Publishing platforms
You include a link back to your site, either in the body or author bio.
The goal?
Backlinks. Visibility. Authority.
But the way you execute it determines whether it helps or harms you.
The Real Benefits of Article Submission
Let’s be clear.
This is not a shortcut tactic.
Done properly, it supports a broader SEO strategy.
1. Backlinks (When They’re Worth Something)
If your content appears on reputable platforms, you can earn legitimate backlinks.
Strong backlinks:
- Improve domain authority
- Support keyword rankings
- Drive referral traffic
Weak directories?
They dilute your profile.
Quality matters more than quantity.
2. Increased Visibility
Publishing on established platforms exposes your content to:
- New audiences
- Industry peers
- Potential partners
If your article solves real problems, it gets shared.
Visibility compounds.
3. Authority Positioning
Publishing consistent, useful insights builds credibility.
Over time, you move from:
“Another website”
To:
“A recognised voice in the space.”
That shift matters commercially.
4. Targeted Traffic
If you publish where your audience already reads, traffic quality improves.
Targeted visitors:
- Stay longer
- Engage more
- Convert better
That’s more valuable than vanity traffic.
5. Long-Term SEO Value
Evergreen content on trusted platforms can attract links for years.
One strong article can outperform dozens of weak submissions.
Longevity beats volume.
Best Practices for Effective Article Submission
This is where most people go wrong.
They chase links.
Instead of building assets.
Here’s what actually works.
Create Link-Worthy Content
No platform will save bad content.
Your article must be:
- Original
- Insightful
- Data-backed
- Practical
If it doesn’t offer value, it won’t earn value.
Do Proper Keyword Research
You’re not just writing.
You’re positioning.
Use keyword research to:
- Identify intent
- Target realistic opportunities
- Align with search demand
Relevance increases pickup and linking potential.
Build Relationships, Not Just Links
Strong link-building is relational.
Engage with:
- Editors
- Bloggers
- Industry influencers
Offer value before asking for placement.
Networks outperform cold submissions.
Combine with Guest Posting
Guest posting and article submission are not identical.
They serve different roles.
Guest posting is:
- Relationship-driven
- Higher quality
- More selective
Article submission is:
- Broader reach
- Faster distribution
- Lower barrier
Use both strategically.
Promote Your Articles
Publishing is step one.
Distribution is step two.
Share across:
- Social media
- Email newsletters
- Industry communities
More visibility increases linking probability.
Monitor Your Backlink Profile
Not all links are good links.
Regularly audit your profile.
Remove or disavow:
- Spammy links
- Irrelevant placements
- Toxic domains
A clean profile protects rankings.
Avoid Manipulative Tactics
Buying links.
Mass directory blasting.
Link schemes.
These create short-term illusion and long-term risk.
Search engines reward natural link growth.
Play long-term.
How to Choose the Right Article Submission Sites
Not all platforms are equal.
Before submitting, assess:
- Domain authority
- Editorial standards
- Relevance to your niche
- Traffic quality
- Spam signals
If a site publishes everything without review, that’s a warning sign.
Reputation compounds.
Choose platforms that protect theirs.
Guest Posting vs Article Submission
Let’s simplify it.
Guest Posting
Best for:
- High-quality backlinks
- Targeted reach
- Building authority
- Networking
Pros:
- Stronger SEO impact
- Better audience alignment
- Relationship-building
Cons:
- Slower
- Requires outreach
- Competitive
Article Submission
Best for:
- Wider exposure
- Link diversity
- Faster distribution
Pros:
- Broader reach
- Easier placement
- Supports brand awareness
Cons:
- Quality varies
- Lower editorial control
- Some platforms offer minimal SEO value
Neither is “better.”
The right choice depends on your strategy.
The Smart Way to Use Article Submission
Article submission should support:
- A content strategy
- A relationship strategy
- A brand authority strategy
It should not replace them.
Think of it as amplification.
Not foundation.
Final Takeaway
Article submission can support link building.
But only if:
- The content is strong
- The platforms are reputable
- The intent is strategic
- The approach is ethical
Links are earned.
Authority is built.
And SEO rewards patience over shortcuts.
Use article submission wisely.
Not blindly.