One of the top factors in determining your ranking in search lies in effective link building. Google has long recognized – and penalized – sites that try to game the system with irrelevant backlinks – the focus now is on quality, not quantity.

A recent post at ContentCrossroads.com provides these 5 tips for creating quality backlinks using content:

Capitalize on opportunities -- comment on hot topics in the news or build content around important events or dates.

Build editorial links – establish a network of bloggers that are natural allies with your firm and your website.

Feature video and infographics – create videos with tips or a Q&A that address problems your target audience faces as well as interesting infographics that others will want to share.

Create case studies – develop case studies that describe a common challenge, then describe the solution and results.

Make comments – comment on popular blogs in your area of expertise. To find them, perform a Google Blog search.