SEO Mistakes That Can Kill Your Website’s Rankings
Every day, millions of people search for products, services, and websites on Google. They are looking for answers to their questions and the information that they need.
If you don't rank high enough on a search engine results page (SERP), then you will lose out on an incredible amount of revenue. Why? Because your competitors are ranking above you. And when people searching for your services in your area go searching the web, they will see their business over yours!
Let’s explore some common SEO mistakes that can kill your website's rankings and how to avoid them.
Overusing Keywords
Overusing keywords is one of the most common SEO mistakes that can kill your website's rankings. It’s often called “keyword stuffing.”
But what exactly is a keyword?
A keyword or phrase is what people type into Google to find a particular product or service. If you’re looking for a roofer in your area, for example, you may search: “roofers near me” or “best roofing companies in (city, state)”.
Search engines use sophisticated algorithms to gauge how relevant a page is to a specific query by examining things like keyword density, content length, and other factors.
If you stuff your web pages or blog posts full of "keyword phrases" or have too many pages with high keyword densities, then you risk being penalized in search results because it looks unnatural and spammy.
Instead, focus on creating quality content that answers people's questions without having any unnecessary fluff, buzzwords, and jargon. Google wants to put web searchers in front of a company that can solve their problem or answer their questions — not robotic looking ones spammed with keywords and unhelpful content.
Creating Duplicate Content
Duplicate content is a huge SEO mistake that can kill your website's rankings.
It's crucial to create unique, fresh content for every page on your site. If you have duplicate text from other pages, then search engines will think all of the duplicated information belongs together and won't rank any one specific instance higher than the others.
To avoid this problem altogether, make sure that each article provides new value to readers by providing useful information or helpful advice while still using keywords appropriately in moderation so it doesn't look unreasonable.
Google and its’ bots are SMART! If you focus on providing fresh, quality information for people, the search engine’s will see that and reward you for it.
Not Having a Mobile-Friendly Website
Mobile devices are an increasingly popular way to do everything from browsing the web and reading articles, to shopping online. People are searching for your services on the go. It’s not very often that they actually sit down in front of their desktop computer and begin browsing the web.
People expect a site that is optimized for their device. If you don't have a mobile-friendly website, then your rankings will suffer as people start looking elsewhere for information or assistance with their problems.
A mobile-friendly site is a must. Period.
Not Creating Regular Blog Posts
Regular blog posts are a vital part of any successful SEO effort.
Search engines like Google reward websites that publish new content on a regular basis by ranking them higher in SERPs because they're seen as more trustworthy and reliable.
If you want to rank high, then it's important to stay active with blog writing so your site can show up when people search for information related to the topic you're blogging about.
Keep in mind, though. It can take several months of regularly blogging to see noticeable SEO results. But it will matter and have a huge impact in the long run.
Don’t want to write your own posts? I don’t blame you! Writing quality content takes a lot of time, effort, and thought. Hire an experienced copywriter, preferably someone with SEO copywriting experience.
Copying Content from Others
Copying content from others is one of the worst mistakes that an entrepreneur or website owner could make in regards to their SEO strategy. If someone else has written something similar before you, then don't just re-write it! Instead, use what they've already created as a guide for creating better content.
Avoid These Critical SEO Mistakes and Beat Your Competition!
Avoiding these SEO mistakes is crucial in achieving the highest possible website rankings in the SERPs. By doing so, you can surpass your competitors and position your website directly in front of your target audience on the internet.
If you need help with creating an effective SEO strategy, contact me today to book a free consultation.
