Search engine optimization experts recommend submitting articles to article directories, which will then link back to your blog or website. Here are four simple steps for preparing these articles, from generating an idea to formatting it. Don’t worry, it’s quite easy!
Step one: thinking of a topic
The topic should be related to your own website or blog. It should showcase your expertise and represent the quality of information that people can expect from you. For example, if you run a pet website, you can talk about the best pets for kids, or 10 questions to ask before getting a dog.
Step two: picking a title
Don’t try to be witty. The title should contain the key word in your site and relatively straight forward, so it’s easy for search engines to pick up. For example, if your main key word is ‘best pets’ then your title can be: ‘Best Pets: picking a puppy for your child.’
Step three: prepare a summary
Google search results often display both the title and a short description or introduction. Many people will read the description before deciding whether or not to click on a link, so choose words that will hook them in. For example: ‘Kids need dog breeds that are patient, playful, and rarely nip or bite. Find out which one is best for your family.’
Step three: format the body of the text to the directory’s guidelines
Article directories have different rules and guidelines for submissions. Some allow links, others don’t. Some limit wordcount, others give free rein. Carefully read the submission guidelines and then adjust your text accordingly.
Step four: adding keywords
SEO experts recommend using your key words and phrases at least three times in the article. However, article directories will remove anything that reeks of keyword spamming (and even if they don’t, you’ll lose any readers who stumble on to your article, defeating the purpose of driving traffic to your site improving your search engine ranking.
Step five: adding an author reference
At the end of the article write something about yourself and then link back to your website. For example, ‘Jane Jones has been a dog breeder for 15 years. Visit her blog at janejonespetstore.com.’
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