Both considerations are valid! But they seem to oppose each other. I still see many discussions about using Nofolows or not. But they all revolve about this basic dilemma: spamfighting versus user friendliness / linklove. So it seems that both sides are in a stalemate.

Why?

Because they can’t compromise.

Introducing the Dutch model

The Dutch are known for the way they handle opposing interests. In politics, opposite factions sit together and talk about their differences. They won’t stop until they’ve reached a compromise. It’s tiresome, but works rather well and the Dutch model is named the ‘poldermodel’. I’m not a sociology professor, but I think it has something to do with an old heritage in trading, capitalism, and above all: making money. Making money is all about seeing win-win situations. You give me and I give you.

There is a win-win situation in using Nofollows. Let me explain it with a metaphor.

Protect your house, and invite friends for dinner

Just like my weblog, my house is my territory. I lock the doors when I’m away, but that doesn’t mean I don’t want the world to taste my delicious pumpkin soup! If you happen to be at my house and I have it ready, I will probably let you have a taste (to all my friends who’ve never had my soup yet, it’s just a metaphor, but you’re welcome to come over and try the real deal ;)).

But one thing I will NOT do, is leave my door and windows open so that everybody can just grab some without asking me. I have no idea who it is. Maybe they’ll use my soup to sell it to others!

No soup for you!

CHOOSE when to give linklove

But I do invite friends to come and eat, drink, maybe play some Wii games, watch a good movie, talk about life, politics, the web, etc.

And that is exactly the same with my weblog. I close the doors, but let friends and other people I like come over and have a good time. With searchwritten, I Nofollow, but provide linklove to people I like. If I like your blog, I’ll let others know. If you don’t have one, I’ll sphinn/Digg/whatever your submits. I’ll let people know you have an interesting Twitter acount, etc, etc.

As ar as I am concerned, this is common sense, and not even worthy of such a polemic discussion.

SEO copywriting: Searchwritten - A Study in Content SEO