What is First Link Priority?
First link priority is an SEO principle where Google primarily counts the anchor text from the first link on a page when multiple links point to the same destination. This affects how search engines interpret your internal linking structure and page relationships.
Ecommerce SEO Glossary > Off-Page SEO > First Link Priority
What You Need to Know about First Link Priority
Impact on Navigation Structure
Your main navigation’s anchor text matters most when the same page is linked multiple times. Secondary links to the same URL have minimal SEO value for anchor text signals.
Strategic Anchor Text Placement
This SEO principle requires positioning your most descriptive, keyword-rich links first on the page. Follow-up links can use generic text like “learn more” without diluting strategy.
Category and Product Page Implications
Ecommerce sites should ensure category navigation uses target keywords before linking to the same categories in sidebars or footers with generic labels.
Common Implementation Mistakes
Many sites waste their first link opportunity with vague navigation labels, then use better anchor text in body content where it counts less for search rankings.
Header vs. Footer Hierarchy
Header navigation links take precedence over footer links to the same pages. This makes primary navigation a critical ranking factor for internal pages across your site.
Current Relevance in Modern SEO
While Google considers multiple links, the first instance’s anchor text typically carries the most weight. This principle remains important for on-page optimization strategies today.
Frequently Asked Questions about First Link Priority
1. Does first link priority still matter in 2025?
Yes, the first link’s anchor text on a page typically carries the most SEO weight when multiple links point to the same URL, though Google may consider context from other links.
2. How do I check which link appears first on my pages?
View your page’s source code to see the order links appear in HTML. Visual position doesn’t matter—only the order in your code determines priority.
3. What if my navigation uses generic labels like “Products”?
Consider restructuring navigation to use more descriptive labels that include target keywords, as these first links significantly impact how Google understands your pages.
4. Should I avoid linking to the same page twice?
Multiple links are fine for user experience, but ensure your first link uses the most strategic anchor text. Additional links provide navigation benefits without SEO concerns.
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