Backlinks, Branding and demotions

[wwsosop]

I am wondering if I am doing my anchor text the wrong way for backlinks. At times websites rank for my brand name and I am not trying to rank them really. My question is Google seeing my brand name on 2 different websites and the same way canonicals work will they demote you for having to many similar sounding sites ranking high? Sounds silly but seems that way on my keywords and I am tempted to change the anchor text from my brand name.

 

[seo crazy]

Use image links with your logo’s ALT text as your brand to diversify your anchors and avoid exact text spam.

 

[pala777]

I am wondering if I am doing my anchor text the wrong way for backlinks. At times websites rank for my brand name and I am not trying to rank them really. My question is Google seeing my brand name on 2 different websites and the same way canonicals work will they demote you for having to many similar sounding sites ranking high? Sounds silly but seems that way on my keywords and I am tempted to change the anchor text from my brand name.

Google won’t penalize you just because multiple sites rank for your brand name, that’s normal, especially if you’ve built links using branded anchors.
However, if too many backlinks use only your brand name as anchor, it can slow your rankings for non-branded keywords. It’s all about balance.
Mix it up: use branded, partial match, exact match, and generic anchors. Don’t over-optimize any one type.
And no, Google doesn’t treat multiple sites mentioning your brand like canonicals. They won’t “demote” you for that unless there’s clear duplication or manipulation.

 

[Starblazer]

Brand name as anchor helps Google identify your site as an authority. If you have tens of links, then you can have brand name as anchor. If you have hundreds or thousands of links, then it's better to diversify. Google sees your brand name on other sites as brand mentions but not as canonicals. So, don't overthink, just do it.