Post by
Google likes to see websites add or update content to keep things fresh, that isn’t a big secret. But what happens when you run out of content ideas? There are several things you can do to overcome this obstacle – such as starting a blog – but first, we’ll explain why sites need fresh content.
One of the main reasons why it’s a good idea to keep the content on your site fresh is that Google prefers it. The search engine likes to see active contributors and it favors sites that frequently update their content. But just as important, returning visitors will also appreciate updated content as it keeps them engaged and coming back for more. Here are 10 ways to freshen up your content regularly:
1. Add Images and Videos to Your Site
If you don’t consider yourself much of a writer, it may be easier for you to update your website with images and videos. Just ensure your images and videos are optimized so Google, and all search engines, can see your new content. Depending on your business, you could create a gallery page to show off your new projects or you could make a shopping page to feature new products. Videos are also a great way to update your content. You could offer training videos or even product demonstrations
2. Start a Blog
A blog is perhaps the easiest way to create new content that is relevant and current. Blog topics can consist of industry news, trends, leaders or case studies just to name a few ideas. While it’s acceptable to promote new products, services or discounts that you offer through a blog, it’s best to create posts that answer your readers’ questions and needs or to offer solutions.
3. Create New Landing Pages
Finding new landing page ideas is a constant challenge and at times it requires keyword research to generate ideas. One thing you have to be careful about is overlapping pages or similar topics. Google doesn’t want to see multiple pages on your site that discuss the same topic. In fact, such a tactic may be seen as duplicate content. When creating new landing pages make them relevant to your industry and make sure the topic is deserving of a page.
4. Rewrite or Update Existing Pages
There is always room for improvement, so when you can’t think of a new page to create, look for pages that can be improved. Sometimes the pages you create may become outdated as new information or statistics get released. Whether it’s rewriting the content or extending the length of an article, Google will see the changes you make as fresh content. An important guideline to remember is to never sacrifice quality for quantity.
5. Social Media Profiles and Updates
If you have social media profiles tied to your site, be sure to check in and update often. If this is an issue, there are many tools available to schedule future posts.
6. Add Testimonials
If your testimonials have dates or if your sales rely on social proof, make sure to ask for and encourage testimonials from recent customers. Then, remember to update your site with those. Maybe when you first started your business you used character references instead of actual business testimonials. That’s okay, but be sure to switch them out ASAP.
7. Don’t Forget Your FAQs
Avoid customer confusion or customer support issues. Often you might find yourself answering the same questions from multiple customers. This is the perfect opportunity to add an FAQ section. If something changes – like your shipping or guarantee policy – make sure to update all relevant information.
8. Update Your Products and Information
No one wants to buy an Internet marketing guide written in 2003, right?
9. Add “Company News” to Your Sidebar
Here you can add the status of your production, new product launches, new partnerships and more. Just remember to update this often to keep readers interested and looking forward to new announcements or events.
10. Keep Up with Web Design Trends
You don’t have to be a web designer or graphic designer to know what’s currently in style. Just browse a few popular, fresh websites to see what’s trending – and then either incorporate those yourself or hire a designer to help. An outdated-looking website reflects on your business. If your site looks old your potential customers may assume your products and services are too.
The creation of new content is a big part of search engine optimization (SEO). Just remember, a fresh website and updated content equals a better search engine rank, more traffic, repeat visitors and many other benefits. Whether you choose to update monthly, weekly or daily, you’re sure to see results from your efforts.
