As a small business owner, you are probably writing blog posts on your own website, but do you know how to optimize blog content for SEO?
Even the most basic SEO can have a noticeable impact for your blog content.
I am happy to share some proven SEO tips that you can use to optimize blog content and improve your website’s Google rankings.
And, my easy-to-implement strategies don’t require technical knowledge!
1. Start with Keyword Research
- Use Google Autocomplete, Google Trends, or free tools like Ubersuggest and AnswerThePublic to find keywords your audience is searching for.
- Focus on long-tail keywords (e.g., best website designer in Northern Michigan instead of just website designer).
- Choose one primary keyword and a few related keywords for each post.
2. Write a Compelling Title with Keywords
- Your blog post title should include your primary keyword (e.g., Why Hire an Experienced Northern Michigan Website Designer?).
- Keep your title under 60 characters to avoid getting cut off in search results.
- Make your blog title engaging; include numbers, power words, or questions.
3. Optimize Your URL
- Keep your URL short and descriptive, including the primary keyword.
- Example: abuzzcreative.com/northern-michigan-website-designer
- Avoid unnecessary words in your blog URL (the, and, is).
4. Use H1, H2, H3 Headings for Structure
- The H1 tag should be the blog post title (WordPress does this automatically).
- Use H2 tags for main sections and H3 tags for sub-sections.
- This makes content easier to read and helps Google understand the structure.
5. Write Naturally with Keywords
- Use your keyword in the first 100 words of the post.
- Sprinkle natural variations of the keyword throughout the post (avoid stuffing).
- Write for humans first, search engines second—Google favors helpful, well-written content.
6. Optimize Blog Content Images
- Rename image files before uploading (website-designer-michigan.jpg instead of IMG1234.jpg).
- Add alt text describing the image and include a keyword where it makes sense.
- Compress JPG images when saving in PhotoShop to improve page speed.
7. Add Internal & External Links
- Internal links: Link to other related blog posts or pages on your website.
- External links: Link to reputable sources like news articles and research studies – when relevant.
- Links helps improve the user experience and also helps Google connect your content.
8. Write a Strong Meta Description
- The meta description appears in search results under your blog title.
- Keep it under 160 characters and include your primary keyword.
- Example: Discover the best hiking trails in Northern Michigan, perfect for summer adventures. Explore scenic routes, waterfalls, and pet-friendly paths.
9. Use a Table of Contents (Optional)
- If your post is long, add a clickable Table of Contents
- Use a WordPress plugin like Easy Table of Contents.
- Improves user experience and creates jump links in Google results.
10. Encourage Comments & Engagement
- Google favors content that keeps people engaged.
- Ask readers to leave a comment or share their thoughts at the end of your post.
- Keep in mind that spammers love comment sections; you can approve all comments before they’re published on your blog post.
11. Optimize for Mobile & Readability
- Write your blog post with short paragraphs (2-3 sentences max).
- Add bullet points, numbered lists, and bold text for skimming.
- Make sure your website is mobile-friendly since more users are on their phones.
12. Share Your Post on Social Media
- Promote your blog post where your audience spends their time.
- Create Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram posts.
- Create pins on your Pinterest profile.
- Social signals indirectly help with SEO by driving traffic.
13. Update Old Blog Posts
- Refresh older blog posts with new information, better images, and updated keywords.
- Google prefers fresh content and may rank updated posts higher.
14. Check Google Search Console
- Monitor which keywords and key phrases are bringing traffic to your blog.
- Identify low-ranking blog posts and see if you can improve the content.
Optimize Blog Content
SEO is not a “one and done” strategy. SEO is a long game and should be part of every website update, especially blog content.
A good SEO strategy will help you boost your message and connect with more engaged readers.
Plain and simple: Optimize blog content and increase your reach!
