Is this a common practice?

Visit the top domain for the keyword you're trying to get ranked for, see who is linking to them, and request a link from all of them.

 

Yes, definately.

 

Has anybody used some tool to do that automaticly?

 

I've never used a tool, but yes I do this when I'm starting a new site.

 

There is no tool to ask other people automaticly for a link, semi-auto yes.

 

Interesting.

 

I have used tools(good to identify people and e-mails), but just as easy to write a good request on your e-mail and just cut and paste to as many people as you wish to contact. Try to make it as personal as you can.

Good Luck!

 

I think the best thing to do is to find the linkpartners in the search engines, you know search:
link:thetopdomain.com

 

Ooooh, nice idea. I've never thought of that one, thanks