Many marketers talk about SEO as if it’s some kind of mystical knowledge. They discuss its long-term value for businesses while also waxing lyrical about the complicated and complex methods that need to be employed to utilise SEO to the fullest extent.

And, while SEO is absolutely essential for all companies that want to build their online presence, it isn’t exactly rocket science. There are a number of steps you can take and approaches you can use that will enhance your SEO, though sometimes these aren’t particularly intuitive.

So, with that in mind, here are four things you (probably) don’t know about SEO, but will be able to learn quickly.

1. Content is more valuable than links

Many SEO gurus will tell you that placing numerous ‘anchor’ links throughout your content will help to boost visibility. And, while inserting links strategically through articles is to be encouraged, you need to remember that people visit your blog page first and foremost to view your content. Concentrate on the writing first, and the links second.

2. Meta descriptions do NOT make a difference to search rankings

Given that meta descriptions are a condensed summary of the overall blog, it would make sense that they can help to bolster your website. But, that’s not actually the case. Google has confirmed this so it’s more than just speculation. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take time on your meta descriptions; they are still useful, and should not be rushed. 

3. Keywords can actually be detrimental

If you absolutely stuff your article with keywords, Google’s algorithm will think that you are trying to trick it, and will mark your articles down. Using keywords is vital when creating content, but only use them when they absolutely fit the narrative.

4. Content should be written for people, not search engines

Given that there is so much hype around SEO and its importance, it can be very easy to forget that content needs to be created for people, not the search engines. You need to produce work that is interesting and unique if you are to bring people to your website, and SEO is simply a tactic that should be used to guide them there. Always prioritise the quality of the work first, and then consider the SEO implications later.

This is just as true when writing content for websites as it is when writing for magazines, brochure printing, newspapers, posters, leaflets or advertising. While images can grab attention in the first place, content is what people remember. You need to ensure that everything you write, regardless of the medium, gets the key message across in a manner that is efficient and concise.

This is even more important today than it was in the past given that 30 years ago an individual would see around 2,000 adverts per day; nowadays, that number is closer to 5,000.

If you want to produce content that drives results, get in touch with us at PrintUK.com today to find out what approach will benefit you the most.