One of the best search engine optimization tips you can follow is using title tags for all of your content. Search engines reward websites that use these features because the titles show the value a page has to offer readers. The programs used by Google and Bing automatically scan for title tags so you can boost your business’ SEO value simply by taking an extra step when you’re publishing new content.
Using title tags requires some finesse because there are some easy mistakes you can make which would ultimately hurt your company’s search ranking. Follow these tips so your SEO value will continue to increase.
What are title tags?
First, you have to understand what title tags are and how they’re different from regular titles on your pages. Search Engine Watch explains that title tags are meta elements and are part of the headline section in a page’s HTML code. The source compares title tags to book chapters because both inform readers what information they can expect to read.
Essentially, title tags are the first elements that consumers see when search engines suggest your page. Readers should be able to tell exactly what kind of content you’re offering simply by looking at the title tag.
How to write title tags
Because title tags have to be coded in an HTML format, you can’t simply write the headline and expect it to appear in search results. According to SEOmoz, you should start by typing <head> on the first line and on the next line write your title between <title> and </title>. On the third line write </head> to complete the code.
You can write anything you want between <title> and </title>, but there are some best practices. SEOmoz recommends including keywords and brand name in the title to show your page’s relevancy to specific search criteria. Additionally, don’t exceed 70 characters because that’s the limit most search engines use for titles.
Be unique
A common mistake that many entrepreneurs make is using the same titles over and over again. Repetitive content shows consumers that your page doesn’t contain unique information, meaning few people will regularly check your site for updates.
Business 2 Community notes that every title tag should be different to attract readers. Create the title after the rest of your content so you can develop a unique headline that’s relevant to the page. This will help ensure that you’re not repeating yourself every time you update your site.
The Google replacement
In some cases, Google won’t accept your title tags for various reasons. Whether you exceeded the character limit or stuffed the line with keywords, the search engine may replace your tag, according to Search Engine Watch. Google’s substitute for your content might actually be an improvement, but that’s a rare occurrence.
Monitor your search results to see how frequently Google replaces your title tags with its own alternatives. Knowing if the search engine is regularly changing your content will show you if you need to improve your SEO strategy.
Do you use title tags to boost your business’ SEO value?
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