The most efficient way to find backlink gaps in Ahrefs is to use its Link Intersect tool combined with competitor backlink analysis. This helps you see which websites link to your competitors but not to you, revealing prime outreach targets. Here’s the step-by-step process:
1. Identify Your True SEO Competitors
Go to Ahrefs Site Explorer and enter your domain.
In the left menu, select Competing Domains.
Ahrefs will show domains that rank for the same keywords as you.
Pick 3–5 relevant competitors that have strong backlink profiles.
2. Open the Link Intersect Tool
In Ahrefs, go to More → Link Intersect.
Enter your competitors’ domains in the top fields.
Enter your own domain in the “But doesn’t link to” field.
3. Filter for High-Value Prospects
Run the search and review the referring domains list.
Apply filters:
DR (Domain Rating) > 30 for authority.
DoFollow links only (for SEO value).
Language relevant to your audience.
One link per domain to avoid duplicates.
4. Analyze the Link Context
Click each referring domain to see how they linked to your competitor.
Check:
Was it in a blog post, resource list, or press mention?
Is the content evergreen or time-sensitive?
5. Craft a Targeted Outreach Strategy
If it’s a resource page, pitch your content as a valuable addition.
If it’s a guest post, offer to contribute similar or better content.
If it’s a data/statistics link, create a fresh, updated version and pitch it.
6. Repeat with Competitor URLs (Not Just Domains)
Instead of whole domains, input specific high-performing competitor pages.
This uncovers page-level backlink gaps for more targeted campaigns.
Pro Tip: Prioritize domains linking to multiple competitors, it’s a strong sign they link out regularly to content in your niche.
