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For years, backlinks have been the undisputed heavyweight champion of SEO—Google’s top trust signal for ranking authority. A high-quality backlink profile still matters, and authoritative sites linking to you can move the needle fast.
But in 2025, Google’s algorithm is more like a council of power rather than a single ruler. E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) is now a major part of that council, especially in YMYL niches.
The difference is that backlinks can point to your site as a trusted resource, but E-E-A-T proves it. A link from a respected site means less if your content shows no first-hand experience, lacks credible sources, or feels generic. On the flip side, even without a massive backlink profile, strong E-E-A-T signals—like expert-written content, transparent author profiles, and high-quality original research—can build authority over time.
In short: backlinks may still be the kingmaker, but E-E-A-T is the royal council keeping that king in check. Both work best together—links bring attention, E-E-A-T builds trust and keeps you in the throne room.
What do you guys think about it? Please share your thoughts…
But in 2025, Google’s algorithm is more like a council of power rather than a single ruler. E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) is now a major part of that council, especially in YMYL niches.
The difference is that backlinks can point to your site as a trusted resource, but E-E-A-T proves it. A link from a respected site means less if your content shows no first-hand experience, lacks credible sources, or feels generic. On the flip side, even without a massive backlink profile, strong E-E-A-T signals—like expert-written content, transparent author profiles, and high-quality original research—can build authority over time.
In short: backlinks may still be the kingmaker, but E-E-A-T is the royal council keeping that king in check. Both work best together—links bring attention, E-E-A-T builds trust and keeps you in the throne room.
What do you guys think about it? Please share your thoughts…
