Skyscraper Technique

What Is the Skyscraper Technique?

The Skyscraper Technique, coined by Brian Dean of Backlinko, is a three-step link building strategy: 1) Find content in your niche that has earned many backlinks, 2) Create something significantly better (more comprehensive, more current, better designed, more data-driven), and 3) Reach out to the sites linking to the original content and let them know about your superior version. The name comes from the principle that people are drawn to the tallest building — the best resource.

Why the Skyscraper Technique Works

It works because it targets proven demand — the original content already demonstrated that people are willing to link to that topic. Your improved version gives linkers a reason to update their links or add yours alongside. The technique combines content marketing with active outreach, generating both rankings and backlinks. It's particularly effective for data-driven content, comprehensive guides, and definitive resource pages.

How to Execute the Skyscraper Technique

Use Ahrefs or Semrush to find high-linked content in your niche (filter by referring domains). Analyze what makes the content link-worthy and how to improve it: add original data, update statistics, improve design, expand coverage, add examples. Create your improved version. Use Ahrefs/Moz to find sites linking to the original. Craft personalized outreach emails explaining why your resource is more valuable. Expect a 5-10% success rate on outreach.