Link building can make or break your SEO strategies. Google still puts a lot of importance on backlinks but they continue to enforce their guidelines. There are a lot of link schemes and blog networks you want to stay away from. The days of getting dozen of links each month are gone. Work on the quality of links and focus on creating real partnerships with the local community and experts in your online industry. Follow Google's rules and make sure to use the No-Follow attribute for paid or advertising links.