Skyscraper Content

Definition

“Skyscraper Content” is a concept in SEO strategy referring to the creation and promotion of content that improves and expands upon existing popular content. The idea behind it is to provide more comprehensive, value-added information to what already exists to attract more backlinks. The term, coined by renowned SEO expert Brian Dean in 2015, is metaphorically compared to a skyscraper — a tall, standout structure in a city skyline — designed to tower over and overshadow the competition.

Skyscraper Content Relevance For SEO

Skyscraper content is an advanced SEO tactic that can help sites earn high-quality backlinks and increase organic search traffic. By analyzing existing top-performing content and improving upon it, sites have an opportunity to outrank authoritative competition. Skyscraper content also tends to be very useful for users, meeting their needs for in-depth information. If executed properly, skyscraper content can become a site’s pillar content and continue attracting links and traffic for years.

Skyscraper Content Best Practices for SEO

• Content Analysis: Start by identifying popular, high-ranking content in your area of expertise. Tools like Ahrefs, SEMrush, and Buzzsumo can be useful for this.
• Add Value: Analyze the identified content and find ways to enhance it. You can add more updated information, include better visuals, more comprehensive data, or offer a more user-friendly layout.
• Outreach: Once the content is published, reach out to people who have linked to the original content or those who have shown interest in similar topics. Use personalized emails to showcase your content and its superior value.
• Promotion and Social Sharing: Don’t forget to promote your content via various channels like social media, newsletters, or blog promotion platforms. More visibility often leads to more backlinks.
• Keep Updating: Always keep your content updated and relevant as much as possible. Google loves fresh content and so do readers. Regular updates also give people more reasons to link back to your content.