The SEO Writer's Playbook: Blog Post Tactics That Drive More Visitors

Buddy Rathmell • May 7, 2025

Want more visitors to your website? The key is writing blog posts that both engage readers and rank well in search engines. Follow these 10 SEO-optimized writing tips to attract more organic traffic and grow your audience.

1. Start With Keyword Research

Before writing, identify high-traffic, low-competition keywords using tools like:

Pro Tip: Target long-tail keywords (e.g., "best running shoes for flat feet" instead of just "running shoes") for better ranking opportunities.

2. Craft a Click-Worthy Headline

Your headline is the first thing readers (and Google) see. Use:

  • Power words ("Proven," "Ultimate," "Essential")
  • Numbers ("7 Ways," "10 Tips")
  • A clear benefit ("Increase Traffic," "Boost Sales")


Example:

❌ "How to Write Better Blog Posts"

✅ "10 Data-Backed Blog Writing Tips to Double Your Traffic"

3. Optimize for Featured Snippets

Google often pulls answers from blog posts into the "People Also Ask" or featured snippet boxes. To rank here:

  • Answer questions concisely (40–60 words)
  • Use bullet points or numbered lists
  • Structure content with H2/H3 subheadings
feature snippet example

What is a Google Featured Snippet?


A featured snippet, also called position zero, is the search listing that appears after ads and sponsored posts (depending on current SERP features) but above the first organic result. They are designed to give users a quick answer to their search query by providing more information than traditional search snippets. 


An important point to note is that search engines pull information from websites to generate featured snippets. This is why you should know the SEO best practices that give you better chances of getting featured snippets on Google.

4. Write for Humans First, SEO Second

Google prioritizes helpful, engaging content. Avoid keyword stuffing—instead:

  • Keep paragraphs short (2–3 sentences max)
  • Use conversational language
  • Break up text with visuals (images, infographics)

5. Include Internal & External Links

  • Internal links (to other posts on your site) keep readers engaged.
  • External links (to authoritative sources) boost credibility.


Example:

"For more SEO tips, check out our guide on keyword research strategies."


6. Add a Strong Call-to-Action (CTA)

Every post should guide readers to take action, like:

  • "Download our free SEO checklist!"
  • "Leave a comment with your biggest blogging challenge!"
  • "Book a consultation to boost your traffic."


7. Optimize Images for SEO

  • Compress images to speed up load time (Here's a free tool you can use)
  • Use descriptive file names (e.g., seo-blog-tips.jpg instead of IMG_1234.jpg).
  • Add alt text with keywords for accessibility and ranking.


8. Update Old Posts Regularly

Google favors fresh content. Every 6–12 months:

  • Add new stats or examples
  • Refresh broken links
  • Expand sections with more detail


9. Promote on Social Media & Email

Even the best post won’t rank if nobody sees it! Share via:

Pinterest (for evergreen traffic)

LinkedIn (for B2B)

Email newsletters (to loyal readers)


10. Track Performance & Adjust

Use Google Analytics and Search Console to monitor:

  • Top-traffic posts → Write more on those topics!
  • High bounce rates → Improve readability or CTAs
  • Low-ranking keywords → Optimize or replace them

Great blog posts combine SEO best practices with reader-friendly writing. Focus on delivering real value, and the traffic will follow.

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