Search engine optimization is a must for your website. By practicing good SEO, you can drive relevant traffic to your website, improve the user experience and increase conversions. To get these results, you must use various tactics like writing great content and optimizing your site. However, there are some tactics you’ll want to avoid.
Below we discuss some common SEO tactics that go against Google’s guidelines. By avoiding them, you can remain in Google’s good graces and prevent penalization
1. Keyword Stuffing
Keyword stuffing is when you use keywords too frequently in your content. This was a strategy that was used 15+ years ago, and it worked. However, this is no longer an acceptable practice because it makes the supporting content hard to read and low in quality.
Even though most people realize that keyword stuffing is no longer a good practice, it’s hard to know how much is too much. After all, you still need some keywords to tell users and the search engines what your content is about. Since there is no set percentage for keyword density, focus on what sounds natural. Also, be sure to use related words and phrases.
2. Paying for Links
You should never pay for links. It can be tempting, especially when you’re guaranteed a specific number of backlinks each month. However, doing this won’t give you the quality links you’re looking for. Although it takes longer, it’s best to get links in well-known publications. When this happens, other people will want to link to your content. To boost your link profile, start working with PR partners who can help you craft engaging content.
3. Copying Location Page Copy
When creating location pages for large websites, it might seem easier to use the same content over and over again, with the exception of changing the location. However, it’s recommended that you write unique copy for each page. This will take more time, but you can get better rankings this way.
4. Artificially Spun Articles
Article spinning software was sometimes used to create new content, but this is no longer an acceptable practice. Google is more sophisticated and can identify when an article has been changed only slightly and reused on another site. Even if the article does happen to sneak through the algorithms, it won’t bring any value to your readers. People may bounce off your site and leave you for a more trusted competitor.
5. Relying on Automated Auditing Tools
There’s nothing wrong with using automated auditing tools sometimes, but you shouldn’t rely on them entirely. These SEO tools don’t account for the questions you should be asking, such as who your target audience is, what will help them take action and if there are obstacles to Google crawling your site. For the best results, look at your site holistically.
If you are unsure about something, be sure to reach out for help. There are a number of online SEO forums where you can ask questions publicly and share the knowledge with others. To discuss your SEO strategy in more detail, contact WSI Internet Partners today.