Content is a huge part of most marketing strategies right now. In fact, recent stats from the Content Marketing Institute indicate that 72% of B2B marketers are “heavily focused on creating engaging content, citing it as the top priority for their internal content creators over the next year.”
If you fall into this group, you are probably writing and posting blogs, articles, newsletters, social-media posts, e-mail campaigns, and more right now. But in this process, don’t forget about search engine optimization (SEO).
While SEO has gotten a bad name lately due to all of the penalties from the search engines and changed algorithms, it’s still important to use it to build online awareness and have a competitive edge.
After all, people currently use the search engines to find products and services online. And if your business doesn’t appear at the top of the list, you lose sales to the competition…. so what to do about this? Follow a few, simple steps…
Take some time to figure out what keywords are currently used most in your industry, by the competition and in your local area. Look at common-sense terms, and check your Google Analytics to see what words people are using to find your Website. Then, make a list of your top, keyword phrases and update your list regularly.
When you prepare your copy, think about the keywords that will make sense in your messaging. Then, use them in your title, subtitle and in your main copy. However, do not “stuff” your content with the keywords. Instead, use them appropriately so that your content makes sense and reads well.
Remember, the search engines are looking for quality content that provides value so keep this in mind as you write.
Once your content goes live, check to see how it is doing.
Are people reading the content, clicking on your links and sharing it with others?
Is your content appearing on the search engines for specific, keyword phrases?
If you are successful, keep doing the same thing. If your SEO tactics are not working, it’s time to make changes with your content and test results again.
Don’t Forget Search Engine Optimization!
SEO can give you a competitive edge so be sure to include it in your overall, content-marketing strategy. This tool will help your copy get noticed online, and this can lead to an increase in site visits, new customers and word-of-mouth publicity you simply can’t buy.
And if you’re not sure how to add SEO to your marketing strategy, or you’re not a great writer, seek the help of an experienced, copywriter certified in SEO. It’s well worth the cost as this content can help you exceed sales-goals fast!
Is SEO a part of your current, content-marketing strategy?
To learn more about adding SEO to your content for a competitive edge, please see this information and feel free to contact me here.
Author Melanie Rembrandt helps business owners boost sales, awareness and credibility with targeted, SEO content-marketing strategy, public relations, and social media. For valuable articles and assistance with your business, contact her and her team at Rembrandt Communications®, LLC, www.rembrandtwrites.com.
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