A practically free method to increase your SEO is consistent blogging. The more often you blog the more often Google sees a refresh on your website and is willing to push it up. I always try to recommend blogging at least once or twice a month. That said, the way you write your blog does factor into building your SEO, so let's dive into ways you can improve your ranking.
Create a Google MyBusiness account to check blog rankings
This is a free account that showcases your business online and sends you monthly updates on your rankings, including which pages and blog posts are most attractive.
To my surprise, something I wrote last year is still bringing in an audience so now I can focus my attention on more content like that.
Use Headings (blog titles) to your advantage
You'll often hear SEO experts speak about "Google's Web Crawlers." These crawlers skim through your blog post and push your content based on search queries. This is why it's important to have keywords that build your brand/blog in the headline. However, it doesn't stop there. These crawlers will also check your subtitles so use your keywords throughout
your post.
Add alt-text to images
This is an easy one to forget - I know I've been guilty of it, however adding alt-text to images can elevate your blog SEO as it allows your images to be searchable. Your alt-text can be a descriptive sentence that explains what is going on in the photo. It not only helps your ranking but also those who are visually impaired.
Use meta descriptions
Meta descriptions are the little blurbs you see under your search result titles. Keep in mind those Google crawlers are not only looking for your headings but also your meta descriptions.
A meta description is comprised of 1-3 sentences that describe your blog post. Remember to keep it short, make them intriguing and don't forget to use a couple of those keywords while you're at it. Most blogs have this function built-in and you can update it as you see fit.
Go long
Your blog content needs to be informative, that's why it's known as long-form content. It's been proven that Google will push longer blog posts that go into detail. Why? Well, the more you write the more likely those keywords will pop up.
Longer blogs may feel overwhelming to you so use tools to make them fun. Break things down into subcategories and share lists!
Link posts out
Linking posts to earlier entries or pages on your website or even other reputable websites tells your reader that you've done your research and are an expert in the industry. But did you know it's also something those SEO crawlers are looking out for too? Well, now you do.
Don't forget who you're writing for - humans
As much as we want content to zone in on keywords you have to remember that you're writing for real humans at the end of the day. Let your blog be a part of your persona and write as if you're speaking to your readers. This allows your blog to be easy to digest and shareable.
Also, don't forget to write content how they would search for it. Use words like "How to..." or "Guides for ..." etc.
Remember
Blogs are a simple way to get people off social media (aka platforms you don't own) and onto your website (aka a platform you do own).