Happy Halloween! I’m here with cat face paint on, trying to quickly get this post out before I sweat it off at Orange Theory. Maybe painting my face like a cat wasn’t my best idea, but I wanted to join in the fun and not be the only one without a costume. For those who attend Orange Theory, you know just how festive it gets!
Coincidentally, it’s fitting to post about this today since the orange slip dress with black accessories gives me a very Halloween vibe.
Anyway, let’s dive into something that many bloggers find intimidating but really shouldn’t: SEO, or Search Engine Optimization. SEO is all about getting search engines to notice and highlight your awesome content. You can’t just pour your heart out, throw in a few pictures, and hope people will find your blog. You need to optimize it!
Search engines are clever, but they need guidance. SEO is your way of telling them what your content is about and why it deserves a top spot over all the other blog entries. Let’s get into it, folks. SEO class is now in session.
### 8 SEO Tips & Tricks for Bloggers
1. **Install the All in One SEO Plugin**
If you’re using WordPress, download and install the YOAST SEO plugin. There’s plenty of simple guides online to help set it up. This plugin helps you enter a META description for each post, which tells Google what your post is about. It also lets you choose a keyword that sums up your post.
**Tip:** Use this keyword throughout your post. The plugin will rate your SEO performance with color codes like a stoplight (red, yellow, green) and guide you on how to improve it.
2. **ALT Text on Images**
ALT text helps search engines understand what an image represents. On WordPress, you can add ALT text by clicking on the image and selecting the pencil icon.
3. **Link Building**
Building links to your site boosts authority and helps it rank higher. You can do this through interview swaps with other bloggers or writing guest articles for online publications. Platforms like Influenster are also great for getting links out there.
4. **Use Headings in Your Posts**
Utilizing headings is crucial. They act as big clues for search engines about your content. Use headings hierarchically, with H1 as the main topic and H2 for subtopics. Always include your main keyword in an H1 header.
5. **Beef Up Your Posts**
Aim for at least 400 words per post. This not only delivers value to readers but also attracts search engines.
6. **Update Links/Fix Broken Images**
Keep your blog error-free. Regularly update links and fix any broken images. Check your Google Analytics to see which older posts are still attracting traffic and make sure they’re up to date.
7. **Recirculate Old Content on Pinterest**
When you find a successful post from the past, share it again on Pinterest. This can boost traffic and is an excellent way to utilize existing content.
8. **Utilize Google+**
Though not as popular as some platforms, Google+ can improve SEO since it’s owned by Google. Set up a good-looking profile, share content, and network with others.
9. **Install an SSL Certificate on Your Site**
An SSL Certificate indicates that your site is secure, which is valued by Google. This security feature can positively impact your site’s ranking.
### The Edit | Transitional Slip Dresses
As a fashion blogger, I can’t miss the chance to rave about slip dresses. They’re staple pieces that are super easy to style and perfect for transitioning into fall and winter. You can layer them with chunky sweaters, darker accessories, or a leather jacket for a chic look. I’m wearing one from Sincerely Jules, and the burnt orange shade is just perfect for fall. When temperatures drop, you can layer it with a turtleneck or cozy jacket.
**What I’m Wearing:**
– Sincerely Jules ‘Charmer’ Slip Dress
– Gucci Marmont waist bag
– Wooden heel boots (similar options available)
– Topshop baker boy hat
– Ray Ban round sunglasses
– Gold bangles