Bloggers are always happy to link to a resource we think is good, or a product or service with which we’re affiliated.
But there are other kinds of external links that too few bloggers use:
- links to sources of information we’ve found
- links to creators of content we’re citing
- links to more detailed information on a topic we’re mentioning, but not covering in depth in a post.
Citing sources is a basic element of professional writing. As well as reflecting your professionalism, it:
- helps build your authority on a topic
- helps you to gain profile and respect by association with quality sources
- actively helps readers to benefit from your content.
Above all, citing external sources of information boosts your credibility. By linking to a quality, reliable external source, you show that you proudly stand behind the information you give your readers. And what blogger doesn’t want to do that?
When should a blogger include a link as a sort of citation? Whenever you’re relating information that you’ve learned elsewhere. Let’s look at the most common types of statements that require external links to their original sources.
Referencing quotes
If you quote someone else, you should link to the place where they said the words you’ve included in your quote.
After the legal implications of quoting someone without citing the source of that quote, the main reason for referencing quotes is really a logical one.
If you’re quoting a person, it’s logical that your readers may be inspired or intrigued by that quote, so you’ll want to help them out by providing them with easy access to the complete story. Right? Right!
Referencing ideas or concepts
If you make mention of an idea or a concept that someone else has come up with, include a link to the relevant...
