Ensuring your website is in the best SEO shape possible is a necessity for any business endeavor. You may master several aspects of search engine optimization and see an increase in site traffic and conversion. But eventually you notice that these tools are no longer working. SEO is variable, and successful strategies go out of date quickly

A lot of the mutability concerning SEO best practices has to do with the changing search engine landscape. According to Moz, “Google changes its search algorithm around 500-6000 times” a year.

To stay up to date, one must consistently follow changes in the SEO landscape. That’s why we have put together these SEO tips to keep you abreast of current SEO trends.

1. What comes first, content or SEO?

There is a split within the world of SEO content. It is a fickle chicken-or-the-egg situation: do you write your content and then optimize, or do you write your content with optimization in mind? In our experience, both approaches have their pros and cons. It comes down to knowing what you want to accomplish. For some, it is a matter of personal preference, production deadlines and work schedules.

For tight schedules, writtent recommends producing editorial calendars that include all the topics, keywords, metatags and subheadings. Additionally, prior research is required to ensure optimum keyword impact. In either case, creating quality content that connects with your audience is the most important factor, as it is the deciding factor between a bounce and a conversion.

For SEO optimized content, “your outline will contain three elements: a search engine optimized headline that packs a punch, a hierarchy of keyword-rich subheadings, and your main message/thoughts/ideas for that piece.”

2. Proper character length

Keywords and attractive headline are the first step, but keywords, metatags, subheadings, paragraphs and post lengths need to be taken into consideration. According to Buffer, the optimal character lengths for blog posts are as follows:

• The optimal width of a paragraph: 40 to 55 characters
• The optimal length of an SEO title tag: 55 characters
• The optimal length of a blogpost: 1,600 words

3. Stay current and leverage technology

There are many different tools available to leverage for SEO. Many have similar tools and results. Moz has a great list of both free and for-pay tools that are easy to use, especially great if you are an SEO beginner. Most have free tutorials!

There are other great tools as well, including but not limited to: SEMrush, Google Analytics & Console, ahres, and SEOBook. Most come with a free trial version so you can test them and see which you prefer.

Keep in mind that SEO tools will help develop your SEO processes but will not solve your biggest problems of traffic and, more importantly, conversions. Most real SEO results will come with leveraging multiple platforms and implementing well-rounded SEO strategies that start with content and then spread to include keyword analysis, backlink outreach, self-audits, and competitive analysis.

Should you have any questions, or would like more information about generating and implementing these SEO tips with your business, please reach out!