Requesting a link - best practice

Internet Marketing, Site promotion and Etiquette
“…What many new web masters don't readies is that a request for a link will probably meet with a negative or no response. The reason why is simple - it's back to the WIIFM principle - What's In It For Me.” (Michael Bloch, Tamingthebeast.net)

Warning!! Link Farm Ahead
“…Here's a checklist based on my own experiences, and those of other webmasters who contributed their thoughts on the subject in a recent Cre8asiteForums.com thread on this subject. If any of these seem obvious to you, link at your own risk.” (Kim Krause, cre8pc.com)

Give People A Reason To Link!
“…I have to be honest, I won't link to a web site unless I get some kind of benefit. If you want people to link to your web site give them something in return.” (Larry Dotson, ldpublishing.com)