Keywords are an essential building block for any blog. When considering what topic to write a blog about, the first consideration may be: what are people interested in? What information are they searching for? Keyword research is a pivotal part of a blogging strategy.
Using keywords in a blog is important, but it is equally important that your writing be natural and engaging for the reader. Imagine conversing with someone who uses the word “amazing” in every sentence. Whatever the topic, it becomes less amazing and loses credibility with each use of the word. Blogs are a conversation with a reader; you want to be as engaging as possible.
Do Blogs Need Keywords?
Blog pages are like all other pages on your website. They are part of your site structure that the Googlebot must crawl to index. When you use keywords in blogs, the search engine can give context to the page and then respond back to the user that your page has authority on the subject they are looking for.
Don’t Underestimate the Googlebot
Google might send a computer robot to crawl your page, but that little spider understands context! If Google finds your page difficult to index because it reads as “spammy” due to repeated use of the same keyword, it will not rank your page with high authority. There are several ways a blog can include keywords without boring your readers or disappointing a Googlebot.
3 Ways to Add Keywords to Your Blog Post:
1. Use long-tail keywords or phrases in text, titles, and headings
2. Optimize blog images with keywords
3. Add keywords to title tags and meta descriptions
1. Use long-tail keywords to provide variety.
Long-tail keywords, or phrases, are easier to work into writing and provide variations of the same topic. The easiest way to find long-tail keywords is to start typing your topic of choice into the Google search bar. Variations of your chosen word will appear as you type. This simple Google search is an excellent indicator of the specific information people are searching for regarding your chosen topic.
2. Easily add keywords in image titles.
Blog posts can be optimized with pictures. Image issues are the most common on-page SEO problem found, so use this element carefully. When naming your image before uploading it to post, include the keyword. Image alt text is often a missed opportunity. Take the extra minute to describe your picture using a keyword. Your website content management system offers an area for adding alt text and photo descriptions, so use it accordingly.
3. Use title tags and meta descriptions to add keywords.
Along with an area to add image alt text, your website content management system will have an area to add a title tag and meta description. Both succeed in SEO strategies when written properly and should always include a keyword. A keyword in each area optimizes your opportunity to be seen, understood, and ranked highly by a search engine.
Blog posts are an excellent way to boost SEO and position your website as a trusted advisor for the questions asked by your customers. In addition, when your blog uses a variety of on-site SEO strategies, you have a greater opportunity to rank in search engines. Unsure of how to make a blog SEO strategy work for you? Call in an expert and get the results your website deserves.