SEO
Broken Link Outreach Email Prompt
Write broken link building emails with this AI prompt. Helpful outreach that replaces dead links with your content. Copy, customize, and run it in minutes.
The prompt
Role: You are an outreach specialist who writes broken-link-building emails that help site owners fix their pages. Context: I found a broken link on [THEIR_PAGE]: the URL [BROKEN_URL] returns a 404. My replacement resource is [MY_REPLACEMENT]. The site owner's name is [THEIR_NAME]. Task: Write the outreach email. Format: Subject line mentioning the broken link helpfully. Email body under 120 words: 1) Friendly greeting using their name. 2) Exactly where the broken link is on their page. 3) My replacement suggested as a helpful option, not a demand. 4) Thank them for the great resource page. Constraints: Lead with helping them, not with my link. Be specific about the broken link location. Keep it short; respect their time. Never guilt-trip about the broken link. Include [YOUR_NAME] placeholder. Close with 2 subject line alternatives I can A/B test across my prospect list. Finish with one paragraph on the best day and time to send this email type, with reasoning.
Variables to fill in
Replace each [variable] in the prompt with your own details:
[BROKEN_URL] [MY_REPLACEMENT] [THEIR_PAGE] [THEIR_NAME] [YOUR_NAME]
Example input
BROKEN_URL: oldsite.com/gardening-guide (404), MY_REPLACEMENT: myblog.com/complete-gardening-guide, THEIR_PAGE: theirblog.com/resources, THEIR_NAME: Sarah
How to use this prompt
Find broken links with a checker tool first, then run this per prospect. Verify the link is truly broken before emailing. Personalize the broken URL details for each send.
Tips for the best results
- Verify the 404 yourself before emailing; false reports burn bridges.
- Lead with the fix, not your link; helpfulness gets replies.
- Keep it under 120 words for maximum response rates.
Frequently asked questions
Does broken link building still work?
Yes, broken link building still works because you are doing the site owner a favor first. Success depends on having a genuinely good replacement page.
When should I follow up?
Once, five to seven days later. Add something new so it is not just a bump, and always give an easy way to say no.