Sending traffic to your off site links...

What is fair?

[hdpt00]

Am I currently in the process of starting a link development program which will include, in some cases, reciprocal links. Obviously I want people to stay on my site so it it acceptable to have the link pop up in a new browser window? Will users get mad about this? Any other things I should consider as far as SERPs or how google will treat this?

Thanks,
Brandon

[D_Blackwell]

A lot of people get cranky if you open new windows for them. In general, I prefer not to open new windows. However, if the link is likely to take my user on a clicking adventure, then they will get a new window. It's a trade-off. The cost of that very helpful on-topic link is a reminder of where they got it from.

[andy_boyd]

Personally speaking, I do not like clicking on a link and watching it open in a new window. It's best to keep it clean and simple, links that open in the same window are less confusing and aggravating to the average user ... in my opinion.

[tombola]

Will users get mad about this?

You can avoid many bad decisions if you examine your own experiences: do YOU get mad about this when you're visiting another site?

;-)

[hdpt00]

I usually don't mind if the site I am currently on has lots of good content and I plan on staying. That way I don't have to hit the "back" button a few times.

-Brandon

[fidibidabah]

I generally hold the shift button when clicking on obvious exchanged links (Assuming I want to stay at the page I'm currently on). I really don't think it's that big a deal to open in a new window, if they don't want it, they'll just close the old one :P

[HughMungus]

Do what I do. Put "link opens in new window" next to the links.