A Statement from Google on Outbound Links

I would imagine that inbound links still have more weight, but it's good to see that outbound links get some cred. For bloggers, this is big. Yes, I need inbound links, but since this blog is an unpaid venture, I also need to spend my time on things that make me money.

From the office of Google:

...Relevant outbound links can help your visitors.

• Provide your readers in-depth information about similar topics
• Offer readers your unique commentary on existing resources

Thoughtful outbound links can help your credibility.

• Show that you've done your research and have expertise in the subject manner
• Make visitors want to come back for more analysis on future topics
• Build relationships with other domain experts (e.g. sending visitors can get you on the radar of other successful bloggers and begin a business relationship)....

The key is in the word "thoughtful".