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So when it comes to Link Strategy most people are talking about what Google wants for their algorithm to rank you on page one. The main ingredient for high ranking is of course content. By content I mean original information or opinions is best. However, even poor content ranks well above lists and link copy found on 1000's of sites on the web. But here we are talking about linking and the big argument seems to be relevant links verses non relevant links. Again the simple answer to this is what is the competition in your niche or in your specific market doing. Remember, you are competing against your competitions web site for the number one position. You are not competing against Google. Google is merely the race track we are all running on.  My guess is the other racers are having the same problems you are.  Your competition may have better coaches (SEO Consultants) better equipment (Software) but what they are doing is transparent. All you have to do to see what they are doing is look at their site. You can even usually find who they are linking too.

Google has in print stated that relevant links are important but has of course failed to say such things as how many, how relevant, what exactly is relevant etc etc. What that leaves is again simple, personal experience is what counts. It does not have to be your personal experience but someone you respect and trust is certainly the best way. So who do you trust. The person that does it everyday and has sites where what they say works and will help you get higher rankings.