News publications do not link out. Why? They’ve cited several reasons, and in this article, we’ve examined two of the common reasons often cited. Of course, this is a bad practice. And for that reason, we have also explored four journalistic reasons they should start linking out. Fasten your seat belt!
Two Common Reasons Newspapers Don’t Link Out
- For Commercial Purpose
When a newspaper was reached out for links, their response was: “We only provide links to a commercial partner.” So, if some newspapers will provide links, it will be to brands that advertise on their website. To get links from them, you must be a commercial partner. Of course, that is unhealthy.
- To Avoid Validating Or Promoting Brands
Most newspapers who do not link out want to steer clear of validating and promoting a brand. They think it might be unfair to brands not referenced or quoted. But is linking out solely about promotion? No! Newspapers should see linking out as a vital way of offering beneficial information to other readers.
Four Journalistic Reasons To Link Out
How does linking out benefit journalism? I have outlined four reasons here:
- Great For Storytelling- Links offer journalists an excellent way to tell complex stories simply. Readers can click for backgrounds, check for unfamiliar terms, and other sources.
- Keeps Audience Informed- While publishers are always reluctant to send their audience to other sources, readers prefer a comprehensive source!
- They Are A Currency Of Collaboration- When journalists utilize links as a way of paying people for their crucial contribution to a story or piece, they encourage the production of journalism. Traffic spike from a quote or mention on a high-ranking site can have an instant monetary impact too.
- Enable Transparency- Journalists must supply all resources used in compiling their stories. It is unfair to critique a scholar’s work or position without linking out.
Final Thoughts
Undoubtedly, links are still the simplest, most transparent, and most comprehensive method of attribution. As a result, news publications must embrace the linking out and discard their archaic linking policy.
