You're probably elbows deep learning about social media marketing right now, aren't you?
If that's the case, then you've probably come across the term SEO content writing. In our opinion, these two types of content marketing go hand-in-hand.
You won't really see success on social media without knowing how this other thing works.
But here's the question– what the heck is it?
What is SEO Content Writing?
Content writing is the umbrella term for:
• Social media captions
• Blogs
• Video/podcast scripts
SEO stands for Search Engine Optimization. SEO content writing incorporates SEO practices into your social media, blogs, and video content.
For example, you probably know that blog posts are essentially useless without keywords strategically implemented into them. The same goes for YouTube videos and pages on your website.
Without them, the only hope you have of having your blog or being seen is to go viral.
And going viral is about luck… and it's not sustainable.
Keyword placement within the blog or video helps it get on Google's front page—which is crucial considering 75% of people don't look for answers on Google's second page.
Content Writing vs. Copywriting
Before we get into this more, it’s important that you know how to differentiate between content and copy.
Don’t feel too bad if you don't know there is a difference between copywriting and content writing. Even writers get them mixed up!
Most companies opt for copywriting before content writing for one reason: it intends to sell.
You might find copywriting in:
• Ad copy
• Email funnels
• Landing page copy
• Website page copy
Each of these is strategically written persuade the reader to take action. This action should lead to an immediate sale.
SEO content writing, on the other hand, is keyword-rich writing that provides value in the form of inspiration, education, or entertainment.
For example, the blog you're reading right now is a piece of content writing. We're writing this to simply inform you of SEO content writing. Sure, we have a call-to-action at the bottom, but it doesn't require you to make a purchase.
On the other hand, something like our Social Media Service page is written and formatted so that you want to fill out the form to contact us about this particular service. From there, it's up to the sales team to secure you as our client.
Here's How SEO Content Writing Works For Business Owners
Should you start with SEO copywriting before you dig into content writing? Not necessarily.
To get your target audience to trust you, you need to provide free value first. The best way to do that is through SEO content writing.
Here's how you can implement it!
Step 1: Determine Your Content Pillars
Think of 3-5 topics your company specializes in.
For example, our digital marketing team works on logos, social media marketing, and web design.
To find people who need these services, we write blogs (like this one) with specific keywords to bring our clients to us.
Step 2: Find Your Keywords
Topics like "social media marketing" are too broad to use as keywords in your content writing. Instead, you want to niche into subcategories that people want to know about.
You can find keywords using programs like SemRush, Ubersuggest, or simply Google search. Type in your content pillars or niche topics into those platforms and see precisely how many people search for those keywords.
Step 3: Use Your Keywords In Your Content for Search Engine Optimization
Once you compile a list of keywords, think of different ways you can create content out of it: blogs, social media captions, or videos.
To optimize your content for search engines, you need to ensure your keywords are in the titles and at least once in the caption or description. If it's a blog with 500 words or more, use the keyword at least three times. If you're creating a video, make sure you say the keyword (or have closed captions).
Nervous about getting started? We'll walk you through it during your FREE social media evaluation.
Tom Lewis, Partner | Creative Director
With over 20 plus years of award-winning advertising and design experience, Tom has spent much of his career working with a variety of companies throughout the southeast. His client list has included: UNC Lenoir Health Care, Hutchens Law Firm, Equifax, Georgia Pacific, Primerica Financial Services, Weyerhaeuser, The Atlanta Hawks, Randstad Staffing, Craven County Tourism, America Knits, Guardian Repellent, and The Shizzle Jerk Marinade.