SEO copywriting like a pro
Copywriting for SEO (search engine optimisation) comprises keyword research and SEO strategy to produce web content that caters to users and their questions. SEO copywriting is a powerful tool that can help to boost your rankings and satisfy users.
1. Stick to the basics
The basis of SEO copywriting is copywriting – all the usual rules apply. Make sure to know your audience and write about subjects that are of interest to them. Choose the right tone of voice, length and structure to cater to a certain audience.
2. Identify & utilise keywords
Choose your keywords and key phrases before you start writing. Find keywords by typing into Google what you think people might search and look at what Google autocompletes.
Then make a list of keywords and key phrases that your target audience might use in a search. Use variations of your main keywords to give your site the best chance of being found by users. If “nature” is one of the keywords, also use “wildlife”, “earth” and “scenery”.
Include keywords in the headline and in the opening paragraph without making it look unnatural. Search engines will be more likely to find the page. Remember you are writing for a human audience and use keywords discreetly. The keywords must flow logically with the rest of the copy.
3. Create useful information
A site needs to have relevant information to become popular – write on relevant topics and utilise relevant words that your target audience uses. More people will visit the site if the information is useful and engaging.
The more popular a site, the more popular the site appears to search engines and as a result more people will visit the site. The ideal SEO cycle is then created.
4. Utilise different forms of media
Although writing long-form text is correlated to the site’s ranking , different forms of media should be used to keep users engaged.
Make use of photos, videos and infographics that enhance and add to the text. This will break up the text and make it more digestible to users.
5. Quality is king
Google aims to rank quality content for users. Google looks for extensive and in-depth content. Longer content often means top rankings and better social engagement.
Proper grammar and spelling is also crucial. Avoid long paragraphs and long sentences, and use simple language that is accessible to as many people as possible.
6. Answer related questions
Improve keyword rankings by answering common questions that users are asking related to your keyword. Find these questions by typing into Google questions you think people will search and look at the autocompletes.