While SEO content writing typically involves inserting keywords into web pages or blog posts, creating a piece on content that ranks for valuable SEO keywords also involves its structure, inside arguments, and details. The goal is to convert readers into customers. To help accomplish this goal, here are 5 steps to help you get started: 

1.  Content Ideas & Identify Target Keywords

Focus on conversion first, then client consideration, and lastly awareness. In the conversion phase use long-tail keywords. They have a lower search volume but have higher purchase intent rate. Ask these 3 questions when coming up with content ideas in the client consideration phase:

• What are our customers’ pain points?
• Which of those pain point topics can we write compelling content about that puts a spotlight on our product or service as a solution?
• Which keywords match those topics? 

Lastly, for awareness, start with popular local keywords, then expand based on growth or the next area that your target audience is located. 

2. SERP Analysis 

Inserting the target keyword into your title tag and subheadings is a good start, but it is not enough. Research the types of content that ranks already. Is it “how to” articles or landing pages or quick list for Google’s scheme? Are there any subtopics being discussed these popular articles that you didn’t think of? Think about how you can improve the articles on the top results page. If you can come up with a winning article with search intent in mind users will spend more time on your post, click into things, and thus display “on page behavior signals” that tell Google’s algorithm your piece is useful. Google is more likely to rank you higher and the searcher is more likely to feel your brand understands their needs, increasing the chance your product will convert. 

3. Structure Your Article 

First think about the type of post your content is going to be. Is it a guide, list, or how to, etc. Look at what users are typing into Google to answer their question. Using the SERP analysis think about the improvements to information currently out there. From a reader’s perspective, it was difficult to tell what the differences were between products, and which one would be the best fit for them. Include subtopics needed to rank and be specific in how you sell your product or service by incorporating how it can solve the problem the client is searching for to solve. This will help you stand out from other products that user generic fluff words. Create a list or outline using this info in mind. Structure like this: 

• Header (main topics)
• Sub header (subtopics)
• Paragraph 1 (problem) 
• Paragraph 2 (Solution) 
• Recap
• Conclusion with Calls-to-action

4. Write the Content 

Make the time to write the content thoroughly and edit it. If you are a busy business owner, you might not have the time to do this. You have 2 options if you can’t accomplish this task yourself. One, hirer an internal team consisting of a researcher, writer, editor, and social media manager. Two, hirer an agency who has all these positions and other professionals to help you out. You and the agency can develop a content marketing strategy that covers your website, social media, and any other marketing material your business needs to operate. You can update the strategy every time you have a new business goal you need to accomplish. 

5. On-Page SEO

Go through or have professional go through and check or edit alt tags and meta descriptions. Google’s algorithm is favoring websites and content that accessible-friendly. This will also help potential clients that use e-readers understand your content as well as boost you Google SERP ranking because you are reaching a wider range audience. Also check back links within your article to see if they are active. Broken links can hurt SEO, so it is important that those a functioning. Make sure the layout is attractive and easy to read. If your article is dense, break up the photos with images or visual aids.

Need help developing an excellent content strategy?  Call 248.528.360