This post is to explain what the Google Sandbox is, and what it means for new blogs and websites.

If you are in the world of blogging, digital marketing and/or search engine optimisation (SEO), the term “Google Sandbox” will be a phrase you will have come across, most likely in your frustrations!

The Sandbox is a term used for when newly launched websites (including blogs) are subject to limited visibility within search engines.

Google Sandbox is (in simple terms), the idea that new blogs and websites experience a temporary period of lower visibility and organic rankings in Google search results. This means that new websites could be less visible and show up less in Google rankings for a temporary amount of time. 

The idea is Google does this on purpose to assess the credibility and quality of a new website before giving it any higher rankings in search results.

While this makes sense in theory, it doesn’t stop it feeling disheartening when you put so much work in and see little results (from Google). 

While your new blog or website is stuck in Google’s Sandbox, your site may not receive as much organic traffic from search as you’d maybe be hoping for!

The good news is that over time as your blog or website becomes more established, its trustworthiness increases tenfold.

The overall authority will also improve the longer the website is live and the more high quality content is published. As your blog gains this trustworthiness,  it will start to emerge from the sandbox and you will start to notice it achieving better rankings and visibility!

Let’s dive into what Google Sandbox is and why it’s important to be patient.

What Is The Google Sandbox?

The Google Sandbox refers to an online filter that Google applies to new blogs and websites. It’s one of the main reasons why the visibility of new websites in searches can be so low. It can affect both direct searches and organic rankings during an initial period after the launch of your site. 

In simple terms, the Google Sandbox is basically like a test zone for new websites. When a site or blog is brand new, Google puts it in this ‘sandbox’ for a while.

This is why you may not find new websites easily in searches.

Google does this to make sure the websites are good quality and not spammy. They want to check if the site is worth showing to people and if it will be useful in the long run!

The purpose of the sandbox is believed to be for two main reasons:

• To prevent spammy or low-quality websites/content from achieving quick (high) rankings
• To evaluate the long-term credibility and value of newly created websites.

The main idea is that Google wants to see if the website is trustworthy and credible. They check things like the quality of content, how much people interact with the site, the links coming to the site (backlinks), and how good the site looks overall.

Not all websites are created equal and this is what Google is trying to determine!

Why Do New Websites And Blogs Go Into The Google Sandbox?

Websites are believed to enter the Google Sandbox for a couple of reasons:

To Prevent Spammy Websites and Low-Quality Content

Google aims to maintain the quality and reliability of its search results as much as possible. The Sandbox helps to filter out websites that may be created solely for spamming or providing low-quality content. By subjecting new websites to a probationary period, Google can evaluate their trustworthiness and weed out those that violate its guidelines.

Assessing Long-Term Credibility

The Sandbox also serves as a way for Google to assess the long-term credibility and value of newer websites. It takes time for a website to establish a solid reputation, build a quality backlink profile, and grow its user engagement. By observing a website’s performance over a period of time, Google can better determine its authenticity and whether it deserves higher rankings!

It Levels The Playing Field

The Sandbox creates a level playing field for both established and new websites. It prevents new websites (and blogs) from rapidly climbing up the rankings and overshadowing older, more established websites.

This ensures that newer websites have to prove themselves over time and gradually gain visibility as they demonstrate their value.

Is My Website/Blog In The Sandbox For Doing Something Wrong?

The Google Sandbox is very different from manual penalties imposed by Google for violating its guidelines which could impact your website being shown in search.

While penalties are a result of specific rule violations, the Sandbox is a natural process affecting ALL new websites to some extent.

Websites in the Sandbox have not done anything wrong; they are simply undergoing a period of evaluation.

How Does The Google Sandbox Work?

This is tricky to know/answer as the exact workings of the Sandbox haven’t ever been fully disclosed!

Imagine the Google Sandbox like a waiting area for new websites. When a website is brand new, it goes into this ‘sandbox’ for a while.

During this time, Google watches the website closely to see if it’s trustworthy and valuable!

While in the Sandbox, the website won’t show up much in Google searches.

It’s like being on a timeout!

There are several theories  put out by those who understand the workings of Google and their ranking system. Those theories are based on their observations and the key points are as follows:

• Time-Based Delay: When you create a new website, it might not show up much on Google at first. This is because there’s a delay where the site doesn’t appear as high in search results. This delay can last a few weeks to a few months, and during this time, the website doesn’t rank as high as you might hope.

• Trust Building: The Google Sandbox checks if a website/blog is trustworthy and reliable. They look at things like content quality, how people interact with the site, the links to the site, and how good the site looks overall. 

• Gradual Ranking Improvements: As your website gets older and proves it is active and full of reliable, high quality content, it starts showing up more on Google. This means more people can find it, and it becomes easier to see in search results. More people will then be able to visit your site too!

As the website proves itself trustworthy by having good content, engaging visitors, and gaining credibility, Google slowly lets it out of the sandbox.

This is when it will slowly get better rankings on Google!

This means more people can find it when they search, and more people click through and visit the blog or website.

How To Navigate Out Of The Google Sandbox?

The Google Sandbox can be a frustrating period for anyone who has ever owned a blog or website! As website owners, we are all eager to see our new site gain traction! There are however several tips and tricks that can make things progress and speed up the process of getting out of The Google Sandbox:

Focus on Quality Content

Creating valuable and original content that aligns with user intent is crucial. Making content that people find useful and unique is really important.

If you keep creating great articles, blog posts, or videos, Google will see that your website is helpful for users. You want to demonstrate to Google that your website provides value to your readers!

Natural Link Building (Backlinks)

Instead of using tricky or spammy methods to get backlinks linking back to your website and blog posts, try getting good-quality links from trustworthy sites. You can do this by guest blogging, partnering with others on content, or connecting with influencers in your field.

The more high-quality backlinks you can get from reputable sources, the better it looks in Google’s eyes. 

Social Media and Building Your Brand

You can use social media platforms to promote your content and engage with your target audience. Building a strong online presence and brand reputation can help establish credibility and attract organic traffic.

Pinterest especially is an amazing way to get your blog and content seen while also helping to grow your online brand!

Sharing your content on social media can attract traffic, generate user engagement, and potentially earn backlinks from interested users or influencers in your niche. It’s a win all round!

Improve User Experience

Enhance the user experience on your website by optimising its design, navigation, and loading speed. Ensure that your blog or website is mobile-friendly, easy to navigate, and provides a seamless browsing experience as much as possible!

A positive user experience encourages users to spend more time on your site, reducing bounce rates and improving engagement metrics.

Patience and Persistence

This is the tricky part but not one that can be skipped! Knowing that The Google Sandbox period is a natural part of the SEO journey for new websites can lessen the blow though.

Stay committed to implementing sound SEO practices, continue producing high-quality content consistently, and keep an eye on your website’s performance to identify areas of potential improvement.

Monitor your website’s performance using analytics tools such as Google Analytics or Jetpack. Track your organic traffic, keyword rankings, and user engagement metrics. Identify areas for improvement and make necessary adjustments to your SEO strategies, content, keywords or website itself.

For more information on best Keyword practices, check out this post here!

How Long Can You Expect Your New Website To Be Stuck In Google’s Sandbox?

The duration of the Google Sandbox period (or the time it takes to get out of it) can vary significantly from website to website. 

There is, unfortunately, no fixed timeline or specific timeframe for your website to emerge from the Sandbox. Sorry!

Some websites may experience a shorter period of limited visibility, while others may take several months. Sometimes for unknown reasons!

This is why it’s SO important to keep on improving your website and creating amazing content!

On average, many SEO experts have reported seeing improvements in rankings and visibility within 3 to 6 months after launching a new website. 

However, it’s important to note here that these timelines are rough guides and are not set in stone. There are cases where it has taken longer for websites to emerge from the Sandbox. Especially for non-experts!

It can take 12-18 months for a newer website to emerge from The Sandbox. Don’t be discouraged, keep going and it will emerge in its own time!

Several factors can influence the duration of the Sandbox period.

This can include (but isn’t limited to) the competitiveness of your chosen niche, the quality and relevance of your content, your website’s backlink profile, user engagement metrics, and overall website authority.

It’s really important to focus on implementing SEO best practices, keyword research, creating high-quality valuable content, and consistently improving your website’s credibility and user experience.

All of these points combined will increase your chances of a faster exit from the Google Sandbox!

While waiting for the Sandbox period to end, it’s important to remain patient and persistent. Keep improving and keep going! Monitor your website’s performance, upscale your SEO strategies, and consistently produce high-quality content.

Over time, as your website gains trust and establishes its authority in the online space, you should see gradual improvements in organic rankings and visibility in search engine results pages.

Frequently Asked Questions About Google Sandbox

Can a website in the Google Sandbox still rank for long-tail keywords?

While the overall visibility of a website in the Sandbox may be fairly limited, it can still rank for specific long-tail keywords and less competitive keywords!

Is the Google Sandbox the same as a penalty?

Not at all. The Google Sandbox is different from penalties. The Sandbox is a natural period of evaluation for new blogs and websites. Penalties are imposed for violating guidelines!

Can paid advertising help overcome the effects of the Google Sandbox?

Yes, paid advertising (such as Google Ads) can provide immediate visibility and traffic to new websites. It can bypass the impact of the Sandbox on organic rankings for the time the adverts are running.

What strategies can be used to speed up the process of getting out of the Google Sandbox?

Strategies include focusing on quality content creation, building a diverse backlink profile, implementing long-tail keywords, improving user experience, leveraging social media, and being patient and persistent!

Can a website experience multiple Sandbox periods?

On the whole, the Google Sandbox period is experienced just once for new websites. This is why it can take such a time, as Google wants to be sure! 

However, if significant changes occur, such as a major domain change, a new evaluation period may happen!

Are there any specific signs or indications that a website is in the Google Sandbox?

There are no definitive signs or indications that a website is in the Sandbox since it is not actually officially acknowledged by Google. The limited visibility and lower rankings can be an indication, but other factors may also be at play.

Is the Google Sandbox the same as the “honeymoon period” for new websites?

The Sandbox and the “honeymoon period” are related concepts but not exactly the same. The honeymoon period refers to a potential period of initial higher rankings for new websites, whereas the Sandbox implies limited visibility during that time. The Sandbox also affects all websites, the honeymoon period is a period that “can” affect the rankings of a website.

Are there any official statements or documentation from Google about the Sandbox?

Nope! Google has not officially confirmed the existence of a specific Sandbox algorithm or filter for websites, so there is no official documentation about it from Google.

Are there any known cases of websites bypassing or avoiding the Google Sandbox altogether?

As far as I’m aware (and as far as research shows), there are no known cases of websites completely bypassing or avoiding the Sandbox.

Please note that these answers are based on current knowledge and observations within the SEO community, as the exact workings of the Google Sandbox remain undisclosed by Google.

The Google Sandbox remains an intriguing and (sometimes) frustrating concept in the world of websites and blogging. While the exact algorithms and workings of the Sandbox remain a partial mystery, website owners can take proactive steps to navigate through this low ranking period. By focusing on creating valuable content, building a strong online presence, and employing solid SEO strategies, you can increase your chances of your website emerging from the Sandbox with improved organic rankings and increased visibility on Google!

Speak soon!

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The post Understanding The Google Sandbox: Tips On How To Get Out! appeared first on Katherine McLee.

Every blogger, regardless of experience or niche, has encountered the dreaded writer’s block at some point. Also known as blogger’s block!

There are two types of writer’s block when it comes to blogging.

Not knowing what blog post to write, and not knowing what to write within a blog post.

It’s that frustrating moment when inspiration seems elusive, and the words simply won’t flow.

Creativity (like most things) has its ebbs and flows. Embracing these challenges can lead to personal growth and even more remarkable content creation in the long run as you start to build up strategies and tricks that help you get out of any rut you may feel like you’re in. 

Writer’s block is a common issue for bloggers. Thankfully it can be overcome with the right strategies and a dose of motivation.

In this blog post, we will go over some effective techniques to deal with writer’s block and get your blogging back on track!

Writer’s block is a hurdle that every blogger faces. That doesn’t mean it shouldn’t stop you from pursuing your passion. You’ve already come this far!

By implementing strategies like establishing a routine, seeking inspiration, breaking down tasks, practising self-care, connecting with others, and exploring different content formats, you can overcome writer’s block and stay motivated to continue with your blog. 

It can be disheartening to stare at a blank screen without a clear direction. So let’s go over how you can get rid of blogger’s block and get back on track!

Here are some ways you can discover the inspiration you may have lost to keep your blog thriving:

Revisit Your Blog’s Niche and Purpose

Read over your business plan/mission statement (if you have one). If not, have a think back to what you wanted from your blog when you first started it. 

Think about your blog’s purpose and the niche/readers you cater to. Have a think about your target audience’s needs, interests, and any pain points/questions they may have.

Consider how you can address these areas in a unique and valuable way. By reminding yourself of your blog’s core focus, you can explore new ideas that align with your audience’s expectations and needs.

Engage with Your Audience

Similarly, your readers themselves can be an amazing source of inspiration. Engage with your audience through comments, social media, or email and encourage them to share their questions, concerns, or topics they’d like to see covered on your blog! 

This direct interaction not only helps to generate new ideas, but also helps you tailor your content to your audience’s specific preferences.

Have A Functional And Consistent Blogging Routine

Establishing a consistent writing routine can be a powerful tool in combating writer’s block. Set aside dedicated time each day or week to work on your blog. Knowing what days you are posting on what topics (using your blog post schedule) means you have time to prepare for each post in advance. This makes it easier to overcome mental blocks and get into a writing flow.

Keyword Research

Carrying out effective keyword research can make a world of difference. Not only for getting your blog posts found on Google and Pinterest, but for inspiration on what topics to write on too. While researching topics and looking at various factors with whichever keyword research tool you prefer, it should also show you similar/related keywords and topics to write on. 

My preferred Keyword Research tool is Keysearch as it’s super affordable and so simple to use, but really works! It’s perfect for anyone new to keyword research too.

Keyword research can be a powerful tool to overcome writer’s block for bloggers. Below are some ways that you can use keyword research to generate ideas and get your creative spark back!

The ways in which Keyword Research can help you overcome writer’s block as a blogger is that it can help you to:

• Generate blog post ideas
• Identify relevant topics
• Analyse search volume and competition
• Expand on your ideas
• Provide content ideas for your blog content calendar
• Help you understand what readers are looking for
• Provide keyword variations you may not have thought of

Utilise keyword research tools to identify popular search terms and topics in your niche. Look for keywords that have high search volumes and relatively low competition in the beginning stages especially. This crucial research can help you come up with potential blog post ideas based on what people are actually searching for!

Incorporating SEO-friendly content into your blog posts can attract organic traffic and expand your audience!

Eliminate Distractions

Writer’s block can come in many forms. One of which is losing track half way through a post! 

Identify any distractions that hinder your writing process and try to minimise them. While this may not spark internal inspiration, it can certainly stop you getting thrown off the blog post you are working on at the time.

Creating a focused and distraction-free environment can help you concentrate on your writing and overcome writer’s block. 

Look At Older Posts

Dive into your blog archives and unearth hidden gems. Repurpose or update older blog posts by adding new insights, statistics, or examples. Expand on/add to a specific topic or take a different angle on a previous post you have written.

Revisiting your older blog posts not only helps you come up with new ideas but also lets you utilise your existing content and provide a fresh perspective for your audience.

Seek Inspiration from Various Sources

Inspiration can be found in unexpected places. Explore different options to spark your creativity and get some fresh ideas.

You could read blogs and articles related to your niche. Following authority figures in your niche/topic can be a great source of inspiration too! You can attend webinars (or conferences), or engage in discussions with fellow bloggers. Exposure to a range of perspectives can help break through creative barriers and inspire new and exciting content ideas!

Changing your environment can also help spark your inspiration. A change of scenery can do wonders for breaking through writer’s block. If you usually write at your desk, try moving to a different location, such as a coffee shop, a park, or a library. The new surroundings can stimulate your creativity and provide a fresh perspective! Inspiration can come from anywhere!

Break Down Your Tasks

Sometimes writer’s block comes from feeling overwhelmed by the tasks in front of you. Stopping feelings of overwhelm and carrying out a brain dump can make the world of a difference.

Break down the writing process into smaller, manageable steps. Start with brainstorming ideas, outlining your post, and then focus on writing individual sections. By dividing the tasks it’s easier to tackle each section without being overwhelmed by the whole task as one.

Another way to break down your larger tasks is to write in short bursts. Instead of trying to write an entire blog post in one sitting, break it down into smaller writing sessions. Set a timer for 15-30 minutes and focus solely on writing during that time.

By setting a time limit, you create a sense of urgency and reduce the pressure of producing a perfect piece. Over time, these shorter bursts of focused writing can add up to a complete blog post.

Set Realistic Goals – Don’t Aim To Do Too Much At Once

If you’re experiencing writer’s block, facing large goals isn’t going to help at that moment!

Break your writing tasks into smaller, achievable goals. Set a specific target for each writing session, such as writing a paragraph or completing a section. It can be as small as necessary for you at that time. Creating an outline before you start writing will also help.

Accomplishing these smaller goals gives you a sense of progress and boosts your motivation to continue. It can also help spark inspiration and other ideas, without overwhelming yourself.

Try Freewriting

When you feel completely stuck, try freewriting to help your creativity. 

Freewriting involves writing continuously for a set amount of time of your choosing, without worrying about grammar, or any sort of structure.

This method encourages free-flowing thoughts and can help spark new ideas. 

You may just find you come out with ideas or inspiration you didn’t know you had in you!

Set a timer for a specific, fairly short duration (e.g. 10 minutes) and start writing without any hesitation or too much thought. Write your thoughts down freely without worrying about grammar, structure, or coherence. 

The goal is to overcome the pressure of producing a perfect blog post in one go.

Freewriting can help you generate ideas and break through mental blocks. It can also help you work out how to fit certain pieces of information into a post, and what headings to use!

Switch Up And Try Different Content Formats

If you find you are really struggling to keep momentum going and keep your inspiration up, you can try switching up different content formats. If you typically write text-based blog posts, you could try adding in multimedia elements like videos or podcasts. 

Experimenting with new formats not only adds variety but may just give your blog the boost you need to bring back your blogging inspiration!

Take Regular Breaks

Writing burnout can contribute to writer’s block and drain your motivation. It’s essential to take breaks, step away from the screen, and recharge your mind (and your eyes!). Do things that relax and inspire you. This could be things such as going for a walk in nature, practising meditation or mindfulness, exercising, or pursuing any hobbies that you enjoy.

Taking care of your mental and physical well-being is crucial for maintaining long-term blogging motivation! 

Taking time off allows your mind to recharge and helps you come back to your writing with a fresh perspective.

We have all had it happen where we come up with an amazing idea in the shower! That’s because your brain can relax for those few minutes and it allows you to think a little more freely.

Connect with Other Bloggers

Building connections with fellow bloggers can provide invaluable support and motivation. Joining blogging communities can be one of the best decisions you make as a blogger!

Interacting with like-minded people can spark new ideas, offer encouragement, and provide fresh perspectives. Reach out to other bloggers or friends as they can often provide a fresh perspective or help brainstorm ideas with you as you can for them. Collaborating on a blog post or discussing your writing challenges can help generate new ideas, gain insights, and overcome writer’s block.

Running out of blog post ideas is a common hurdle for every blogger, but it doesn’t have to be a permanent roadblock. By implementing these tips and strategies, including reconnecting with your blog’s purpose, engaging with your audience, exploring trends, repurposing existing content, seeking inspiration beyond your niche, conducting keyword research, and staying curious, you can consistently generate fresh and engaging blog post ideas! 

Embrace the challenge, think outside the box, and let your creativity flow to keep your blog vibrant and captivating for your readers!

So, take a deep breath, embrace the journey, and let your blogging motivation soar. Happy writing!

This post explained how to overcome writer’s block as a blogger, and the best (and fastest) ways to get back on track.

Have you ever had to overcome writer’s block as a blogger? 

What techniques did you use to combat this?

Let me know in the comments below!

Speak soon!

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The post How To Overcome Writer’s Block As A Blogger: The Best Ways To Get Back On Track appeared first on Katherine McLee.

This is probably one of the most frequently asked questions asked by anyone trying to grow a blog!

We all know that creating new, fresh content is key to growing a blog.

But how often should you post to grow your blog? Do you have to publish new content daily to see results?

There is no one specific answer here. The number will be different for everyone! But let’s go over how frequently you should be posting on your blog that works for you.

It’s an important consideration as it can impact your blog’s success, audience engagement, and overall growth.

While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, below we’ll go over some factors to consider when determining the ideal publishing frequency for you and your blog.

This post is to explain how many blog posts you need per week to successfully grow your blog.

Why Blogs Need To Consistently Publish New Blog Posts

Fresh content is crucial for the success of any blog. It can help keep your audience engaged, improve your search engine rankings, establish your brand’s credibility, and increase your social media visibility.

There are a few other reasons why producing fresh content is important:

Audience Engagement

Readers tend to engage more with blogs that have fresh and updated content. Regularly posting new content can keep your audience engaged, coming back for more, and sharing your content with others.

SEO Benefits

Search engines such as Google tend to favour websites with fresh and relevant content. By regularly publishing new blog posts, you can improve your website’s search engine rankings and drive more organic traffic to your site.  Each new post provides an opportunity to target specific keywords and topics, improving the blog’s SEO and increasing the likelihood of appearing in search engine results pages.

Brand Credibility

By consistently producing high-quality, informative, and relevant content, you can establish your brand as an authoritative voice in your chosen niche. This can help build trust with your audience and strengthen your brand’s reputation! Over time, readers will associate your blog with high-quality content and turn to it as a trusted source of information.

Social Media Visibility

Fresh content can also help increase your social media visibility. When you publish new blog posts, you can share them on social media channels, driving traffic back to your website and increasing your social media reach. Websites like Pinterest highly prefer fresh pins linking to fresh URLs.

Engage With Your Readers

Blogging is an interactive platform that allows for two-way communication between you – the blogger – and your audience. By regularly publishing new posts and encouraging comments and feedback, you can engage with your readers and build a loyal community.

Generate Leads And Conversions

Blogging is a powerful tool for generating leads and conversions, if that’s the route you choose to utilise. By providing valuable content, your blog can attract potential customers and guide them to your sales funnels. Consistently publishing new blog posts provides multiple areas for your visitors to engage with your blog and ultimately convert into customers.

How Often Should You Post To Grow Your Blog? 

As a general rule, the more high-quality content you can get out, the better.

In saying that, the frequency of publishing new blog posts depends on various factors. Factors such as your target audience, the niche of your blog, your resources, and your content strategy. There is no one-size-fits-all answer to how many blog posts per week you should post for optimal blog growth. 

In general, a good starting point for most bloggers is to publish at least one high-quality post per week. Most blogs publish a new blog post between 1 and 3 times a week. As you gain more experience and feedback from your readers, you can adjust your posting schedule accordingly!

Quality content is key. It’s better to publish fewer posts that offer value than to produce low-quality content just for the sake of publishing new blog posts.

The key factor when it comes to knowing how often you should post to grow your blog, is consistency. 

Publishing a new blog post once a week is far better than posting 4 times one week and then nothing for 2 weeks. Choose a publishing schedule that works for you and really try and stick to it.

There are a few factors to keep in mind when working out a consistent content schedule:

Quality Over Quantity
The quality of your blog posts is far more important than the quantity. Instead of focusing on publishing a lot of low or average quality content, focus on producing high-quality, informative, and engaging blog posts that add value to your readers and answers any questions that they may have.

Consistency

As mentioned already, consistency is key when it comes to blogging. It’s better to publish a smaller number of high-quality blog posts on a regular schedule than to publish a large number of posts sporadically. This can help you build an audience as they can look forward to regular content from you.

If you find one week you manage to get a lot more posts written, that’s great! Instead of publishing them all at once, you can schedule them out. This way you have some stored for busier weeks so you don’t miss an upload.

Content Strategy

Your content strategy should help show you the number of blog posts you can publish per week. Consider factors such as the type of content, the length of your blog posts, your publishing schedule, and your promotion strategy. Aim to publish enough blog posts to provide value to your audience but that is doable in your life. 

Using a blog content calendar can really help here.

(We will go over blog content calendars below!)

Audience Engagement

How often you publish blog posts can also depend on your audience engagement. If your readers are active and engaged, you may want to publish more frequently to keep your engagement up. However, if your readers are less active, you may decide to publish less frequently. This point isn’t one of the more important ones, but can help you decide your posting frequency.

Content Creation And Time

Producing high-quality content takes time and effort. It’s important to take time to think about your own capabilities and availability before committing to a specific publishing frequency. Consider factors such as the time it takes to research, write, edit, and promote each blog post.

Also take into consideration the time needed for sourcing or taking images, coming up with SEO friendly titles and doing the correct keyword research. Work out how long these other tasks take you when you are determining how often to produce new content for your blog.

Setting a realistic schedule that aligns with your available time will help you maintain consistency without sacrificing the quality of your content!

SEO Reasons When Asking How Many Blog Posts To Publish Each Week

I mentioned earlier that Pinterest prefers fresh pins linking to fresh content.

This is also true for Google.

Google generally prefers blogs that publish new content regularly. Regularly updating your blog with fresh, relevant content can have several benefits for search engine optimisation (SEO) and organic search rankings.

Here are a few reasons why:

Freshness Factor
Google takes into account the freshness of content as a ranking factor. Publishing new posts regularly signals to search engines that your website is active and providing up-to-date information. This can help your blog appear higher in search results.

Indexing And Crawling

Publishing regular new content increases the chances of search engine crawlers visiting your site more frequently. Each time new content is published, search engines have a reason to re-crawl your website, which can lead to faster indexing of your new posts.

Increased Keyword Opportunities
Each new blog post provides an opportunity to target additional keywords and topics relevant to your niche. By consistently publishing new content, you expand the breadth and depth of your website’s keyword relevance, potentially attracting more organic traffic from a wider range of search queries.

Reader Engagement

When your blog consistently produces fresh and valuable content, it tends to attract and encourage engagement from your readers. Readers will engage more knowing that your blog is active and there’s a higher chance of you responding to any questions or queries they may have! On top of this, increased user engagement metrics such as longer time on site, lower bounce rates, and more social shares can indirectly signal to search engines that your content is relevant and valuable, potentially boosting your rankings.

Why You Should Use A Blog Content Calendar

Using a blog content calendar can really help keep your uploads on track.

It’s a schedule where you can plan out and see your upcoming topics, keywords, and timelines for creating and publishing blog posts on a regular basis. 

It can include any details about the content that you will need for that content. This can be things such as the title, keywords, category, target audience (if required), images, as well as the date to be published.

A content calendar can help you stay organised and consistent. It can really help you stay focused on your content posting strategy by providing a clear visual for the type of content you will be creating, and when it will be published. It also helps ensure that there is a variety of topics and themes covered over time, and that your blog aligns with your overall blogging goals.

A blog content calendar is an amazing tool to refer back to to use to make sure your blog is updated regularly and consistently. By establishing a regular schedule, your blog can start to build an audience that expects and looks forward to new content on a regular basis.

To summarise:

While there is no definitive answer to how often you should publish new content on your blog, finding the right frequency requires careful consideration of various factors. Understanding your niche, audience preferences, and your own capacity is crucial for getting the right balance between quality and quantity.

Consistency and providing valuable content should be your main goal with your blog and post posts. Whether you choose to publish daily, weekly, or less frequently. Experiment, and adapt as you go along to create a publishing schedule that works best for your blog and helps you achieve your goals!

Publishing new blog posts as frequently as possible is key, but it should never compromise the quality of your content. Quality content remains paramount, so focus on providing valuable information and meeting the needs of your target audience.

Google’s main goal is to deliver the best search results for its users. If your blog consistently publishes high-quality, relevant content that focuses on SEO and your chosen keywords, it is more likely to be favoured by Google, regardless of your publishing schedule.

I hope this has helped you work out your own blog post schedule!

This post explained how many blog posts you need per week to successfully grow your blog.

How often do you publish new posts to your blog?

Have you upped the amount of content you publish or were you overly-ambitious in the beginning?

Let us know in the comments below!

Speak soon!

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Blog post titles are one of those things that may seem unimportant, but this couldn’t be further from the truth!

There’s an importance to blog post titles. As with most things in the blogging world, something that may seem insignificant, actually plays quite a big role!

I’m going to explain exactly how to create the perfect blog post title, and I’ve included lists of various impactful words you can use in your own posts.

There are a few reasons why getting your blog post title right is important.

The first is, of course, to attract readers to your website/blog. Blog post titles are the perfect way to grab the reader’s attention as they are often the first thing people will see before they decide if they want to click through to your blog or not. Creating a blog post title that grabs their attention and appeals to your chosen audience is key.

The second main reason as to why you should take time to create the perfect blog post title is for SEO. 

The title of a blog post is one of the most important factors that search engines use to determine what the post is about. This is a perfect example of on-page SEO! 

A well-optimised title can help your blog post rank higher in search engine results pages for relevant keywords. This can lead to more traffic to your blog which is of course, the goal.

Your blog post title is one of the most important places to put your chosen keyword for that particular post.

The title of your blog post will also help expectations for potential readers. As mentioned above, the title of  your blog post is what catches a reader’s eye and peaks their interest. Making sure your title is a true reflection of your content will make sure no one is left feeling disappointed or misled!

To create an ideal title for a blog post, you need to craft it in a way that works for your blog and your readers.

Below are some tips that can help you create a title that grabs your audience’s attention and encourages them to click through and read your post:

1. Be specific. Use clear and specific language to describe what your post is about. Avoid vague or generic titles that don’t convey the value of your content. You want to show your hard work off!
2. Use power/emotional words. Incorporate power words that grab any potential reader’s attention. I’ve included lists of power/emotional words a bit further down! 
3. Don’t make it too long. Try to keep your title to around 80 characters or less, as longer titles can be difficult to read and may get cut off in search results. If you do want a longer title, make sure your keyword is in the first part!
4. Be descriptive. Your title should accurately reflect the content of your post and give your readers a clear idea of what to expect. You can of course peak their interest, but without using clickbait type tactics.
5. Consider your target audience. Think about who your target audience is and craft a title that will appeal to their interests and needs. What sort of problems are you solving? What answers are they looking for?
6. Use numbers. Titles with numbers (such as “9 Ways To…”) often perform well, as they give readers a clear idea of what to expect. 
7. Experiment. Over time, try out different variations of your title to see what resonates best with your audience. 
8. Consider SEO. Use keywords and phrases that are relevant to your topic and that your target audience is likely to search for. However, avoid stuffing your title with keywords or writing titles solely for the purpose of ranking higher in search results. Keyword stuffing will have a negative effect in terms of search engine ranking.
9. Be creative. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your titles and use humour or puns if they are relevant to your content and audience. This won’t work for every niche but can be a niche touch if this is something that you can work with.

Remember that your blog post title is often the first thing your audience sees.

This means it’s important to put in the time and effort to create a title that reflects the value of your content and encourages readers to click through and engage with your post! 

Above I mentioned “power words”. Power words are words or phrases that can evoke strong emotions or create a sense of urgency, excitement, or curiosity in any potential reader. Power words can be effective in headlines, as they can be used to grab the reader’s attention. 

Tip: Don’t over-do it with any of the sorts of words/power words listed below! Your chosen power words are there to help hype up your content. Too many or contradicting power words may well have the opposite effect as it would look over-hyped.

The best power words for your blog post title will depend on the specific topic and content of your post. So it’s important to choose words that accurately describe what your readers can expect from reading your post.

There are different types of thought/emotion provoking words. Power words are just one of the most common but easiest to implement. Below are a few categories of different strong/compelling words you can use in your blog post title. 

Using power words alone won’t guarantee that your blog post will be successful, but they can help make your title more attention-grabbing and enticing to readers! This can help in getting more eyes on your content.

Note: Some of the words in these categories may overlap but that’s okay! Go for the categories that you are drawn to most and that fit your niche and your content the best.

Below these blog post title word ideas you will find some title template ideas which will help you use them in your own blog post titles!

Here are 50 POWER words that you can use to create attention-grabbing blog post titles:

1. Ultimate
2. Essential
3. Surprising
4. Proven
5. Expert
6. Secret
7. Inspiring
8. Powerful
9. Mind-blowing
10. Revolutionary
11. Revealing
12. Exclusive
13. Amazing
14. Unforgettable
15. Comprehensive
16. Unique
17. Practical
18. Simple
19. Effective
20. Game-changing
21. Valuable
22. Critical
23. Master
24. Dominant
25. Unbeatable
26. Guaranteed
27. Epic
28. Killer
29. Untold
30. Jaw-Dropping
31. Breakthrough
32. Pioneering
33. Epic
34. Shocking
35. Extraordinary
36. Exciting
37. Sensational
38. Phenomenal
39. Vital
40. Insightful
41. Dynamic
42. Compelling
43. Persuasive
44. Eye-Opening
45. Surprising
46. Revealing
47. Disturbing
48. Startling
49. Intriguing
50. Exhilarating

Below are 50 EMOTIONAL words that can help create an emotional connection with your readers and make your blog post titles more engaging and memorable:

1. Inspiring
2. Heartwarming
3. Moving
4. Empowering
5. Hopeful
6. Touching
7. Uplifting
8. Motivating
9. Encouraging
10. Enthralling
11. Enchanting
12. Fascinating
13. Gripping
14. Captivating
15. Intriguing
16. Thrilling
17. Shocking
18. Surprising
19. Astonishing
20. Mind-blowing
21. Eye-opening
22. Stunning
23. Mesmerizing
24. Alluring
25. Addictive
26. Compelling
27. Persuasive
28. Controversial
29. Provocative
30. Thought-provoking
31. Insightful
32. Profound
33. Wise
34. Enlightening
35. Edifying
36. Informative
37. Persuasive
38. Motivating
39. Empathetic
40. Thoughtful
41. Sympathetic
42. Reassuring
43. Comforting
44. Nostalgic
45. Sentimental
46. Melancholic
47. Bittersweet
48. Reflective
49. Introspective
50. Transformative

Here are 50 UNIQUE words you can use:

1. Quirky
2. Unconventional
3. Eccentric
4. Offbeat
5. Avant-garde
6. Pioneering
7. Radical
8. Innovative
9. Trailblazing
10. Visionary
11. Futuristic
12. Unorthodox
13. Outlandish
14. Bizarre
15. Oddball
16. Strange
17. Mysterious
18. Esoteric
19. Enigmatic
20. Cryptic
21. Arcane
22. Unusual
23. Atypical
24. Anomalous
25. Unique
26. Distinctive
27. Individualistic
28. Singular
29. Uncommon
30. Rare
31. Exotic
32. Intriguing
33. Unfamiliar
34. Novel
35. Unexplored
36. Untouched
37. Uncharted
38. Unexpected
39. Surprising
40. Unpredictable
41. Serendipitous
42. Unanticipated
43. Unforeseen
44. Fortuitous
45. Contingent
46. Circumstantial
47. Random
48. Arbitrary
49. Haphazard
50. Chance

Below are 50 CREATIVE words:

1. Curated
2. Hybrid
3. Mind-blowing
4. Uncharted
5. Next-level
6. Empowering
7. Transformational
8. Trailblazing
9. Futuristic
10. Visionary
11. Disruptive
12. Ingenious
13. Clever
14. Artful
15. Crafty
16. Inspired
17. Innovative
18. Unconventional
19. Nonconformist
20. Avant-garde
21. Offbeat
22. Quirky
23. Eccentric
24. Pioneering
25. Radical
26. Exceptional
27. Phenomenal
28. Extraordinary
29. Unparalleled
30. Remarkable
31. Revolutionary
32. Unprecedented
33. Singular
34. Distinctive
35. Memorable
36. Fascinating
37. Captivating
38. Intriguing
39. Enigmatic
40. Mysterious
41. Esoteric
42. Mystical
43. Mythical
44. Whimsical
45. Playful
46. Imaginative
47. Fantastical
48. Magical
49. Enchanting
50. Mesmerizing

Here are 50 CATCHY words that you can use in your blog post titles:

1. Secrets
2. Hacks
3. Tips
4. Tricks
5. Easy
6. Simple
7. Quick
8. Proven
9. Powerful
10. Essential
11. Must-have
12. Ultimate
13. Best
14. Top
15. Trending
16. Viral
17. Exclusive
18. Unbelievable
19. Incredible
20. Mind-blowing
21. Shocking
22. Unconventional
23. Game-changing
24. Innovative
25. Creative
26. Genius
27. Expert
28. Insider
29. Comprehensive
30. Complete
31. Master
32. Ultimate
33. Epic
34. Legendary
35. Phenomenal
36. Extraordinary
37. Amazing
38. Awesome
39. Unforgettable
40. Memorable
41. Remarkable
42. Sensational
43. Fantastic
44. Spectacular
45. Outstanding
46. Impressive
47. Unbeatable
48. Irresistible
49. Compelling
50. Captivating

Below are 50 ENGAGING words that can use to make your blog post titles more interesting and appealing to your readers:

1. Discover
2. Learn
3. Explore
4. Uncover
5. Find out
6. Dive into
7. Delve into
8. Investigate
9. Examine
10. Analyze
11. Interpret
12. Break down
13. Simplify
14. Demystify
15. Illuminate
16. Clarify
17. Educate
18. Inform
19. Enlighten
20. Inspire
21. Motivate
22. Empower
23. Transform
24. Revolutionise
25. Change
26. Impact
27. Enhance
28. Optimise
29. Upgrade
30. Improve
31. Boost
32. Accelerate
33. Streamline
34. Automate
35. Systemize
36. Innovate
37. Pioneer
38. Trailblaze
39. Challenge
40. Engage
41. Connect
42. Interact
43. Involve
44. Participate
45. Collaborate
46. Create
47. Generate
48. Foster
49. Cultivate
50. Nurture

Here are 50 INTERESTING words that can make your blog post titles more intriguing:

1. Fascinating
2. Intriguing
3. Compelling
4. Curious
5. Mysterious
6. Enigmatic
7. Puzzling
8. Confounding
9. Baffling
10. Cryptic
11. Provocative
12. Stimulating
13. Engrossing
14. Absorbing
15. Gripping
16. Captivating
17. Entertaining
18. Amusing
19. Humorous
20. Witty
21. Quirky
22. Eccentric
23. Unusual
24. Rare
25. Uncommon
26. Novel
27. Original
28. Innovative
29. Avant-garde
30. Radical
31. Unconventional
32. Offbeat
33. Surreal
34. Dreamlike
35. Imaginative
36. Fantastical
37. Otherworldly
38. Enchanting
39. Mesmerising
40. Spellbinding
41. Alluring
42. Seductive
43. Tempting
44. Compulsive
45. Addictive
46. Obsessive
47. Provocative
48. Controversial
49. Daring
50. Bold

Sometimes you can slot a power word into a title you already had in mind. Other times you may need to craft your blog post title around your chosen power/strong word. 

Here are some blog post title templates that can help you come up with the perfect title for your content:

1. The Ultimate Guide to [Topic]
2. How to [Achieve Goal] in [Specific Timeframe]
3. [Number] [Adjective] Ways to [Solve Problem/Improve Skill]
4. [Number] Surprising Facts About [Topic]
5. [Number] Myths About [Topic], Debunked
6. [Number] Secrets to [Achieving Goal/Improving Skill]
7. [Number] Common Mistakes to Avoid When [Doing Activity]
8. The Beginner’s Guide to [Topic]
9. The Complete [Step-by-Step/Beginner’s] Guide to [Topic]
10. [Number] Tips for [Achieving Goal/Improving Skill]
11. How [Expert/Influencer] [Achieved Goal/Overcame Challenge]
12. [Number] Things You Need to Know About [Topic]
13. [Number] Habits of Successful [Professionals/Entrepreneurs]
14. The Science Behind [Topic]: [Number] Surprising Facts
15. [Number] Questions to Ask Before [Taking Action/Investing]
16. How [Product/Service] [Solves Problem/Improves Skill]
17. [Number] Reasons Why [Topic] is Important
18. [Number] Best [Products/Tools/Services] for [Achieving Goal]
19. How to [Do Activity] Like a [Professional/Expert]
20. The [Ultimate/Complete/Definitive] [Guide/Checklist] to [Topic]

You can use and modify these templates to suit you and your blog! Remember to also incorporate relevant keywords and power words to make your titles stand out and attract more readers.

This post was to provide insight into how to create the perfect blog post titles for your blog.

I hope this has helped you in how to create perfect blog post titles for your content! 

Speak soon!

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In this post we are going to go over the differences between on-page SEO and off-page SEO, along with why SEO is so important for bloggers. 

Whether you’ve been blogging for a while or are a new blogger, you’ll have heard the term SEO. 

What does that actually mean and look like for you and your blog though?

SEO is one of the aspects of blogging that is SO important, but can be SO confusing when you first start looking into it.

In this post we will be going over what SEO is, why SEO is crucial for blogs and websites, and the differences between on-page SEO (optimising individual pages), and off-page SEO (optimisation done outside your blog/website to improve its overall ranking).

The main difference between on-page SEO and off-page SEO is that on-page SEO involves optimising the individual elements on a web page to improve its ranking and relevance in search engines, while off-page SEO focuses on optimising external factors that influence the ranking and credibility of a website.

There’s a lot to it, but the overall basis of SEO isn’t as scary as it’s sometimes made out to be!

Let’s go over what you need to know about on-page SEO vs off-page SEO as a blogger.

What Is SEO?

SEO stands for “Search Engine Optimisation.”

SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) is the practice of improving a website so that it can appear higher in search results when people search for things online. Optimising a blog or website increases its online visibility and ranking in search engine results pages for specific keywords or phrases.

It involves making your website more relevant and trustworthy in the eyes of search engines, which can help show it to people who are looking for similar things online and therefore attract more visitors to your blog or website.

SEO involves various techniques such as keyword research, content creation, on-page optimisation, off-page optimisation, and technical optimisation. 

These techniques help to improve the quality and relevance of your website’s content and technical aspects to make it more accessible and appealing to search engines and users!

By improving your website’s visibility and ranking in search engines, SEO can drive more organic traffic to your website/blog. It can also improve user engagement, and ultimately increase conversions.

Why Is SEO Important For Blogs?

SEO is essential for blogs because it helps to increase the visibility and reach of your blogs content! It can drive more traffic and engagement to your blog. 

There are a few reasons why SEO is important for blogs:

You will gain increased visibility on search engines. By optimising your blogs content for search engines, your blog can rank higher in search engine results pages. This means your content will be more visible to potential readers!

Having higher search engine rankings can drive more traffic to your blog. This will increase the number of readers and views on your content.

SEO can also help to improve the usability of your blog. This makes it easier for readers to find and navigate around to find the content they are looking for.

Higher search engine rankings can increase the credibility and authority of your blog, making it more trustworthy and valuable to readers! 

SEO is a cost-effective way to promote a blog, as it focuses on organic search engine traffic rather than paid advertising.

Overall, SEO is important for blogs because it helps to improve visibility, drive more traffic, and improve user experience. This then ultimately leads to increased engagement and conversions!

Now we’ve gone over what the umbrella terms SEO is, let’s break down on-page and off-page SEO!

What Is On-Page SEO?

On-page SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) is the process of optimising individual web pages to rank higher in search and get more relevant traffic from search engines.

It’s all the SEO work you do directly on your website!

It involves optimising different elements on a website or blog such as the content, meta tags, images, videos, internal and external links, and other HTML source code elements.

By optimising these elements, you can improve the relevance and credibility of your website/page. This makes it easier for search engines to crawl and index your page, and ultimately helps your page rank higher in search engine results pages (SERPs) for specific keywords or phrases.

On-page SEO is an important aspect of any SEO strategy because it helps to increase the visibility and accessibility of your web pages to both users and search engines. This is what then leads to increased traffic, page views and engagement.

Improving your on-page SEO involves optimising the elements on your web page so that search engines can easily understand what the page is about and show it to people who are searching for related topics.

Some simple ways to improve your on-page SEO are:

• Using relevant keywords in the page title, headings, and content.

> Using a high quality keyword research tool will help with this.

• Creating high-quality, unique, and engaging content that provides value to your readers.

• Having a reliable internal-linking strategy across your website.

• Using descriptive meta tags and alt text for images to help search engines understand the page content.

• Ensuring your website has a clear and easy-to-navigate structure. People don’t stick around if they are confused or can’t find what they are looking for!

• Optimising page loading speed for a better user experience.

• Making the website mobile-friendly and accessible for users on different devices. So many people browse via mobile and tablets, this one is really important!

What Is Off-Page SEO?

Off-page SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) refers to the activities done outside of your website to improve its ranking and visibility in search engine results pages.

This involves optimising factors such as backlinks, social media presence, online directories, and other external signals. These all add up to indicate the quality and relevance of your blog/website to search engines.

Backlinks are an important off-page SEO factor, as they are a signal to search engines that other websites find your content valuable enough to link to it. 

A social media presence and engagement are also important off-page factors, as they can improve brand recognition and drive traffic to your website.

Another aspect of off-page SEO is online directory listings. These help to establish your business’s online presence and improve its visibility in local search results if necessary!

Off-page SEO activities require time, effort, and resources to execute properly. They can have a significant impact on the visibility and credibility of your website in the eyes of search engines.

By improving your off-page SEO, you can improve your website’s authority and trustworthiness, leading to higher search engine rankings, more traffic, and ultimately more eyes on your site!

Here are some simple ways to improve off-page SEO:

• Building high-quality backlinks from other reputable websites that point to your website. 

• Creating engaging content that people want to share on social media or link to from their own websites.

• Building a strong presence on social media and engaging with your audience!

• Participating in online forums and communities related to your industry or niche.

• Listing your website in relevant directories and online listings if relevant to your blog/business.

Both on-page and off-page SEO are important for improving the visibility and credibility of a website in search engines.

On-page SEO helps search engines understand the content and context of a web page, while off-page SEO helps to establish the authority and trustworthiness of a website through external routes..

The ideal combination is to use both on-page and off-page SEO. This way you can improve your website’s ranking which in turn will drive more traffic as it means your content will show up higher in search!

How Long Does It Take For SEO To Show Results?

The time it can take for SEO to start showing results for your new website can vary depending on several factors. It will depend on things such as your website’s niche, competition, and quality of your content.

As a rough guide, it can take anywhere from several weeks to several months to a year plus for a new website to start seeing improvements in search engine rankings and the traffic you get from search.

You can be doing everything right and it will still take time! 

It’s important to keep in mind that SEO is a long-term process that requires ongoing effort and patience. Patience can be hard in this situation but is crucial!

Building a strong, long term and sustainable SEO strategy takes time and requires continuous optimisation and improvement. The more knowledge and experience you get, the more you can improve your blog’s authority!

If you are looking for organic traffic, it is so important that you set realistic expectations and focus on creating high-quality, relevant content. Look to build a solid backlink profile, and ensure a positive user experience for your visitors. And don’t forget patience!

This post was to explain not only what SEO is, but why it’s important and the differences between on-page and off-page SEO!

If you have any questions on SEO for your blog, leave them in the comments below and I will try and answer them as best I can!

Was SEO something you found daunting when you first started blogging?

Share your experiences below!

Speak soon!

Related Posts:

How To Join a Blogging Community – The Best Places To Find Other Bloggers In Your Niche

Debunking Common Blogging Myths: A Guide for New Bloggers

How To Start A Blog Anonymously – A Guide For Blogging In 2023

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