Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is a constantly evolving field, with strategies that help websites climb search engine rankings and drive organic traffic. One such proven and powerful method is the Skyscraper Technique a content marketing strategy that focuses on creating superior, high-value content to earn backlinks and improve search visibility.
In this blog post, we’ll break down what the Skyscraper Technique is, how it works, and how you can use it to grow your website traffic and authority.
What is the Skyscraper Technique?
The Skyscraper Technique was coined by Brian Dean of Backlinko and has since become one of the most widely adopted content strategies in the SEO world. The name comes from the idea of building a piece of content that’s taller (i.e., better) than all the others just like a skyscraper that stands out among the skyline.
In short:
“Find the best content out there, make something even better, and promote it to the right audience.”
The 3 Steps of the Skyscraper Technique
Let’s break it down into simple steps:
1. Find Link-Worthy Content
Start by identifying existing content in your niche that has already performed well usually indicated by a high number of backlinks, social shares, or rankings on Google.
Tools you can use:
- Ahrefs (Content Explorer)
- SEMrush
- BuzzSumo
- Google search with keywords + “inurl:blog” or “intitle:guide”
Look for articles titled things like:
- “Top 10 Tools for…”
- “Ultimate Guide to…”
- “How to [Do Something] in 2025”
2. Create Something Better
Once you’ve found popular content, your next job is to outdo it. That means making your version more:
- Comprehensive
- Up-to-date
- Visually appealing
- Actionable
For example:
If you find a blog post titled “10 Local SEO Tips for Small Businesses”, you can:
- Expand it to “20 Actionable Local SEO Tips for Small Businesses in 2025”
- Add better images or infographics
- Include recent data and statistics
- Optimize it for user intent and readability
3. Reach Out and Promote It
Creating great content isn’t enough you need to promote it. This is where link building comes into play.
You can reach out to:
- Websites that linked to the original content
- Bloggers and influencers in your niche
- Industry-specific forums or communities
- Newsletter curators
Craft a polite, customized outreach email saying something like:
“Hi [Name], I noticed you linked to [Old Article] on your site. I just published a more updated and detailed version that your audience might find useful. Feel free to check it out here: [Your Link]”
Why the Skyscraper Technique Works
There’s a reason this technique has become so popular it works. Here’s why:
- Proven demand: You’re building content around topics that already resonate with audiences.
- High backlink potential: People naturally want to link to the most helpful and updated resources.
- SEO benefit: More backlinks = better domain authority = higher rankings.
- User satisfaction: Comprehensive, polished content tends to perform better in terms of time-on-site, engagement, and conversions.
Tips for Success with the Skyscraper Technique
- Don’t just copy improve. The whole point is to add value, not replicate.
- Keep your visuals sharp. Infographics, charts, and videos help your content stand out.
- Update regularly. SEO is a fast-moving field, and so is most content.
- Focus on niche relevance. Higher-quality, relevant links beat generic ones.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Targeting the wrong content: Not all popular posts are good targets. Look for link-worthy ones that have widespread appeal.
- Overlooking promotion: Many people skip the outreach part which is half the battle.
- Ignoring user experience: Your content may be long, but is it readable, scannable, and helpful?
Real-World Example
Let’s say you run an SEO agency in Australia. You find a popular blog post titled:
“Top 10 SEO Tools for Beginners – 2022 Edition”
You could create:
- “Top 25 SEO Tools for Beginners in 2025 [Free + Paid]”
- Add comparison tables, pricing, expert reviews, and a downloadable PDF checklist
- Reach out to marketing blogs, tool providers, and web designers for backlinks
This positions your brand as an authority and drives high-quality, targeted traffic.
Final Thoughts
The Skyscraper Technique is a smart, structured way to build valuable content and earn quality backlinks both of which are essential to long-term SEO success.
If you’re looking to:
- Grow your organic traffic
- Improve search rankings
- Build authority in your niche
…then this method should absolutely be in your SEO playbook.
Need Help Implementing the Skyscraper Technique?
If you’re looking for professional help with content creation, SEO strategy, or outreach, Global Genie offers affordable SEO and content marketing services tailored for Australian businesses.
Let’s make your content the tallest skyscraper in the SERP skyline.
