Definition
A dofollow (followed) link passes PageRank and relevance signals by default. A nofollow link includes a rel=nofollow attribute (or similar hint) indicating the publisher does not fully endorse the destination for ranking purposes. Google treats both as hints in a link graph model.
Historical context
Google introduced nofollow in 2005 to combat comment spam. For years, SEO treated nofollow as worthless. Updates in 2019-2020 clarified nofollow, sponsored, and ugc as hints, not absolute blocks. Editorial nofollow links from major publishers still drive traffic and brand demand.
Strategic explanation
Portfolio planning: maximize followed editorial links; accept nofollow from high-visibility outlets when traffic and brand lift justify effort. Audit French prospects for default link policies. Some national pages nofollow all external links; pursue alternate pages or trade press.
Use sponsored attribute on paid partnerships per Google guidelines. Undisclosed paid links risk manual actions.
Industry use cases
Wikipedia mentions (nofollow) still drive branded search. Major French news nofollow policies: complement with trade press followed links. User forums: ugc/nofollow, low SEO priority.
Frameworks
Link attribute reference
- rel=follow (default): standard editorial signal
- rel=nofollow: reduced ranking transfer hint
- rel=sponsored: paid relationship disclosure
- rel=ugc: user-generated content
Comparison table
| Criteria | Attribute | SEO transfer | When to pursue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Followed editorial | High | Always | |
| Nofollow editorial | Low-direct | High visibility outlets | |
| Sponsored disclosed | Minimal | Brand only, not SEO |
Reporting discipline
Tag every placement with follow status in campaign reports. Calculate followed referring domain growth separately from total mentions to set client expectations accurately.