Links to majors

When does it make sense to link out?

[Champak]

I'm putting together sponsorship proposals right now. One particular question that a couple of the companies want to know is if within my campaign I will put their logo on my site with a hyperlink back to their website.

Here is my dilemma on that. I have seen a couple of sites on the internet with logos of other major companies---when I say major I mean multi million dollar companies, which are some of the companies I'm putting together these proposals to---but the logos have no hyperlinks. Why would a site choose not to put the hyperlinks? I may understand not placing links to less than desirable sites or low ranking sites, but I don't see why links wouldn't be placed to nationally or world wide known companies. Could someone please enlighten me on this? Is there a specific reason not to put a hyperlink to another company in good standing?

[sem4u]

I don't see why you wouldn't want to link out to good companies.

[Champak]

That's what I want to know. It's not a matter of I don't want to, but why other major companies don't do it with their partner companies, they just show the logo; and even some little sites.

[vincevincevince]

If you feel you can benefit from the link (i.e. you get a commission on sales, sales through that link result in orders through your company, or some other profitable arrangement) then there should be a link. Otherwise - you are giving away value (your visitors) for free!

[jimmyd]

They may want to do so, for their own brand awareness reasons. Rather than having to vett or endorse "you" by association.

They most likely do well, without a live link from you.

Anyway, such functional links would not help you at all.

[Essex_boy]

I seem to recall Brett (belssed is his name) saying that G were or he thought G were likly to take into consideration, for SEO, all the sites that you LINKED to on teh page.

SO if you have red widgets and theres a link to redwidges international site then theres a mark in your favour.

[jimmyd]

Hi Essex,
Maybe, but it is hard to see it. If that is the case, then wouldn't it be easy for anyone to link to such powerhouses, and gain any favour?
Rather, wouldn't it be too easy?

In my limited view, only directories can gain favour from outgoing links.
While anyone will get away with a few (even many), I doubt it to be a good or ideal, practice.

[Essex_boy]

Oh sure, but I think they only asign a limited value to it to ensure your page is on topic, it isnt the sole factor in determining your position in the serps of course.

Coming from Brett Id give the theory some credit.