Most Bloggers get perplexed when it comes to sponsored posts versus paid links for a blog. And this is why some of them get penalised by Google while others get rewarded. 

Sponsored posts versus paid links for a blog – Which of these are allowed by Google ? This is the question that will be addressed with absolute clarity in my current blog.

sponsored posts versus paid links for a blog

Sponsored Posts Versus Paid Links for a Blog

As a Blogger, you have got to remember one thing at all times – Sponsored posts are not equal to paid links. And hence, do not use these terms interchangeably.

Sponsored posts work well on a blog but paid links should never be there. This is why I use 9 winning strategies to earn sponsored posts for my blogs but never ever indulge in paid links exchange of any kind.

Google’s Policy

Sponsored posts are allowed on your blog but paid links are not.

Rankings

Sponsored posts don’t affect rankings on search engines but paid links do.

Disclosure

Sponsored posts should always be disclosed for blogs. Paid links are kept hidden by bloggers.

Penalty

Sponsored posts don’t get penalised if disclosed but paid links always do.

ALWAYS REMEMBER THIS DIFFERENCE AND EARN REWARDS FOR YOUR BLOG.

While Sponsored posts are allowed to be put up on a blog or a website, paid links are not.

Understanding Sponsored Posts Versus Paid Links | My Video

In order for you to gain more clarity, I’ve created a video that illustrates in detail not only the difference between sponsored posts and paid links but also Google’s policies on publishing either of them on the site.

Let me iterate Google’s guidelines loud and clear.

Google’s Official Policy on Sponsored Posts

Google has absolutely no issues when it comes to websites putting up sponsored posts that they disclose and that are not meant to manipulate Google.

Here you just need to take care of the fact that you don’t go about endorsing anyone and everyone.

Make sure you allow sponsored posts only from those people, organisations and brands that are trustworthy and will add value to your users.

Sponsored posts are allowed on a blog

FTC’s Endorsement Guidelines for Websites, Blogs & Social Media

If you are a citizen of United States of America and happen to be a Blogger, it is mandatory for you include a clear disclosure in your content.

You need to mention that a post is sponsored. FTC’s Endorsement Guidelines have got to be followed in this regard.

If you’re not from United States, you should keep a track of your own nation’s guidelines in this regard. Ideally, all sponsored posts should be disclosed.

Google’s Official Policy on Paid Links

Google is very stringent when it comes to paid links. Not only does Google heavily penalise websites and blogs with paid links but also encourages users across the internet to report a website in case it is indulging in spammy behaviour.

Google Doesn’t Allow Bloggers to Manipulate Page Rank Using Paid Links

Google has very clearly stated in its Webmaster Guidelines that any link that is added to a blog to manipulate Page Rank will be seen as a violation. And Google will take strong action.

Hence, do not indulge in malpractices and get your blog penalised just for a few dollars.

sponsored posts versus paid links on a blog

Google Allows Anyone to Report Paid Links

Google has made it very clear in its Webmaster Guidelines that any website or blog that is suspected of manipulating its rankings in search results can be openly reported by users of the internet.

This is a very good policy by Google because it keeps websites and blogs highly accountable.

As creators of content, blogs and websites cannot be indulging in spammy behaviour that violates Google’s guidelines as well trust of their core audience.

I hope you have the utmost clarity pertaining to sponsored posts versus paid links on your blog. Please don’t get penalised by Google EVER.

Copyright Addendum for Blogging Elementary

Akriti Mattu