A search engine optimization (SEO) strategy will help you rank higher in search results, but simple SEO mistakes could affect your bottom line.

Everyone makes mistakes. Though some may be costlier than others for your business.

With so many consumers using the internet to research products and services, your website should not only stand out with great design, it should be easy for searchers to find.

So, we ask…are SEO mistakes costing your business money? Consider these common SEO mistakes and learn how to avoid them.

Mistake #1: Poor or Duplicate Content

Low-quality content, including machine generated content, is easy to spot by Google algorithms. Avoid copying content from other sources or duplicating content across pages. Good content on your website should be unique and useful to the reader while establishing you as an expert in your industry.

Yes, keywords are important. But Google also searches for quality content. So keep this in mind as you fill your website with fresh, relevant content. Bottom line, write your content for people not algorithms and you should be safe.

Mistake #2: Over Stuffing Keywords

Don’t fill your content with too many keywords. Keyword stuffing is a thing of the past and could cost you higher rankings if your website is filled with them.

Too many keywords or irrelevant keywords make your content hard to read, distracting, and uninformative. If that’s the case, users will come and go quickly which can impact your rankings.

Focus your energy on filling a page with creative, compelling content. When your user benefits, so will you.

Mistake #3: Link Manipulation

Link Manipulation is a big “No-No” according to Google. If you’re caught manipulating outbound links, or links headed to your site, you’re violating their rules. Link manipulation can include buying links, using link-building tools, excessive cross-linking, link wheels, or hidden redirects.

Penalties can hurt your visibility and significantly reduce your organic traffic. Stick to the rules and avoid link manipulation at all costs.

Mistake #4: Lacking Unique Title Tags and Meta Descriptions

Many company websites may list their company name as the title tag for each page, and while it’s okay to do, don’t lead with your company name. Title tags can include the company name, but it should be proceeded by a keyword explaining the page.

Each title tag should be unique to the page. Not only for SEO purposes, but it’s also helpful when someone shares a page on social media or bookmarks your website for reference.

Title Tag Example: SEO (Search Engine Optimization) | Digital Marketing Agency Portland | Digital C4

Meta descriptions should also be unique. You have 170 characters for your sales pitch, so use them wisely. They should be persuasive and give the user quick information.

Meta Description Example: Portland-based agency Digital C4 can help your online visibility in search results and improve your conversions through organic channels. Contact us today to learn more about search engine optimization

Are SEO mistakes costing your business organic traffic and leads? Don’t let these common mistakes cost you. At Digital C4, we help companies optimize their website to avoid these common mistakes and more. Call us today to learn how we can help your business.