So far we’ve talked about optimizing your blog posts with long tail keyword phrases in Part 1 of this SEO For Your Blog series, and discussed keyword density in Part 2.
Today we’ll discuss what makes a high quality blog post and why it matters so much in SEO.
Bottom line: the search engines and your readers are looking for unique, highly valuable content.
Period.
The whole reason people go online is in search of information. Those mysterious Google algorithms can distinguish quality content from insufficient quality which in the end can effect your position in the search results.
A blog with helpful, information-rich content naturally attracts readers. I can tell you there’s nothing more frustrating than searching for information, or a solution to a problem, and finding nothing but superficial, incomplete articles. Providing valuable, interesting, engaging content pays off in the long run.
How can you be sure you’re publishing quality content?
Here’s a handy checklist you can use to evaluate your posts before making them public:
- Make sure it relates to your business or niche
- Keep your topics fresh and unique; don’t be rehash what’s already out there
- Make sure it’s useful
- Make it personal by including stories about your own or your customer’s experiences
I notice when I do use personal experience I may be too personal, however on my wahm blog I think it is ok like that as I have went with a more candid approach to the wahm experience.
I need to be sure not to be afraid of using those but also be mindful of not getting to personal when blogging elsewhere.
Also sometimes it is hard not to rehash information out there but if you can bring it in on another perspective and/or add to it I think is the way to go, repeating the same information does no one any good.
MVChrissy, I do think we have to be somewhat careful not to spill the beans about all our lives, but I do feel more of a connection with bloggers when they share something about themselves I can relate to.
I also agree that it can be hard not to rehash info that's already out there. Sometimes just focusing the info to the needs of your target audience gives it a different spin.
One way to minimize rehashing is to find a sub-niche within your niche that hasn't been totally picked apart.
Also, since people learn differently from one another, the way one person explains it may make more sense to them than another person's way. As always, thanks for the great tips!
Thanks for this series!
Good points, Stephanie. Finding a unique niche can give you lots of fresh ideas.
You're very welcome, Melissa.