Central to any successful search engine optimization strategy is original content, particularly written content. Once you’ve optimized the pages on your website, you need to keep adding content for SEO and to keep site visitors engaged. The easiest way to continue to add fresh, optimized content is with a built-in blog on your website.
SEO Tips for Effective Blogs
Writing a blog has a variety of SEO benefits. A blog allows you to create fresh, timely content; build a following; extend your reach to social media; and get more website traffic (and new clients).
Create a Schedule – Part of your SEO strategy should include a content creation calendar. The simplest (and least stressful) way is to plan out monthly blog topics. Commit to writing one 300-400 word blog each month. If you aren’t sure what to write about, writing about the services you offer is a good place to start.
Optimize Your Blogs – While even un-optimized blogs will have some SEO benefit, it’s better to properly optimize your blog for both online users and search engines. Write your blog around a keyword (but don’t keyword stuff it) and it will naturally include relevant content. Include the keyword in the blog title and add an optimized, relevant image or video to the blog. Be sure to include a clear call-to-action (CTA) at the end of your blog. Check out the CTA at the end of this blog for ideas.
Share on Social Media – Get the word out about your recent blog by sharing it on your social media. This enables you to reach a wider audience, creates brand recognition, and keeps your current audience engaged. Include 2-3 hashtags in your post that are relevant and descriptive of your blog. For example, an optometrist’s blog about Pink Eye may have these hashtags: #PinkEye #EyeInfections #Optometry.
Build Your Audience – There are several ways to build your blog audience (and therefore traffic to your website). First, enable an RSS feed for your blog. An RSS feed allows blog readers to subscribe to your blog. Every time you post a blog, they are notified. Another way to build your audience (and traffic) is to send out your blog as a newsletter. A monthly newsletter with an informative blog (not selling anything), is a great way to grow your readership.
If you don’t have the time or resources to blog, call 1-800-IMATRIX to speak to an Internet Consultant. Our web optimization service includes regular blogs custom written for your business and posted on your website.