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Hiring an SEO Content Writer: The 4 Things You Absolutely Must Avoid

Hiring an SEO Content Writer: The 4 Things You Absolutely Must Avoid

When you’re looking for an SEO content writer for your blog, it can sometimes seem like there are an overwhelming number of requirements that you need to consider.

You know you need to boost your traffic and generate posts in a systematic way. And there is no shortage of writers promising to do just that.

With so many options and potential hires, how do you pick the one who is right for you?

Know What to Avoid

Fortunately, you can help jumpstart the selection through the process of elimination.

Narrow the field by knowing what you don’t want. By thinking ahead about potential pitfalls, you can assure yourself a better and longer-lasting relationship with the writer you do wind up hiring.

As you embark on your search, here are the top examples of the sorts of writers you’re going to want to avoid.

#1 – Writers Who Can’t Write

This might seem like it’s so obvious that it doesn’t need to be said, but poor writing is a genuine problem that plagues far more blogs than it should. Sometimes it’s glaringly apparent, but sometimes it’s more subtle.

Let’s face it: not everything that gets posted on the internet is worthy of a Pulitzer. With the number of blogs being published (4 million new posts daily), some are bound to be duds.

Do you want those duds to be the articles that are going on your company site?

Of course, you’re not intentionally going to choose an SEO content writer that you know is terrible. Spelling errors, poor grammar, and sloppy material are usually problems that you can spot early on.

Let’s assume that you’re already doing your quality control, and skipping past the truly terrible writers in favor of bloggers who can at least string together a few coherent sentences.

Once you’ve done that, what are the “less obvious” problems you should avoid?

They Provide “Watered-Down” Content

This is a common problem, stemming from the increasing pressure for writers to create longer posts.

What do we mean these days when we say a “longer” post? Opinions vary somewhat, but most marketers agree that given the current trends, bloggers should aim for at least 1500 to 2000 words per article. The data shows that long-form articles outperform short content.

There is significant research to support this theory. Back in 2016, Backlinko looked at Google’s “first page” results for 1 million unique searches. What the study found was that the average word count for the top-rated posts was 1,890 words.

Although short 500-1000 word posts still get published all the time, the data trends seem to indicate that there is an advantage to writing longer. It’s better for search engine rankings, and it’s also more popular with readers.

If you think about it, you can already see the potential drawbacks, though, when it comes to the writing quality.

Meandering Prose and Word Salad

With added pressure to write more words, bloggers can sometimes fall into the trap of repeating themselves, adding a lot of unnecessary words or sentences, or simply “rambling on.” Although this might satisfy the demands of a Google algorithm, it doesn’t tend to command the attention of a human audience.

In the end, an SEO content writer has to remember: all the articles still need to be readable. They are more than simply archive material.

Not Getting to the Point

According to Tech Client, 61% of American consumers report that they’ve been inspired to make a purchase solely on the basis of a blog post. It just goes to show that the opportunity is there, if you find a writer who is able to make a convincing case on your behalf.

If a writer is adding paragraphs of nonsense to pad their copy, then you’re better off finding someone else.

#2 – Writers Who Don’t Do Good SEO Research

Not every writer will know how to create an effective SEO strategy for your company website. That’s just fine, if you already have someone on your staff who’s doing that for you. However, in some cases, a great writer can lack a background in web marketing.

This is essentially the opposite problem of the “writer who can’t write.” You could find someone who really connects with your audience, but doesn’t have the experience or resources to optimize it for search engines.

Great Posts That Don’t Get Read

If you find yourself in this situation, you could very well wind up with a collection of excellent posts that all go unread because of low rankings.

Hopefully, you can find a legitimate SEO content writer who can jump into the job with a solid knowledge of keyword strategy already in place.

If you’re not sure, though, there are a few ways you can tell if someone might not have as good a skill set as you need.

They’re Using Irrelevant Keywords

Sometimes a great post can languish in obscurity simply because it has a keyword that isn’t relevant to your company. Remember, your blog content exists to create a connection between you and your customer base.

The keywords all need to be phrases that your customers would use.

They’re Using Vague or Generic Keywords

If your keywords are too frequently used, you may also find that your posts are getting lost amidst a sea of similar material. Even if the specific keyword is relevant, if it’s too all-encompassing, it might not be able to stand out from the crowd.

Let’s say you own a bakery. The keyword “bread” might technically be relevant to your business, but you’re better off looking for something a bit more specialized if you want to boost traffic.

They Use Awkward or Clunky Keywords

Not all keywords work equally well in the context of an actual post. If a keyword doesn’t sound natural, then it’s going to be obvious to readers whenever it pops up.

#3 – Writers Who Use Terrible Formatting

Until 2015, the majority of searches occurred on laptops and desktops. But in that year, mobile searches overtook desktop searches, and have made up the majority ever since.

In response, Google’s algorithm started to display results that work better on mobile devices. The result gives preference to websites that look good on the small screens of smartphones. Overly complicated pages and blog posts get left in the dust.

An SEO content writer has to be able to write and format posts for the current market: and that means mobile optimization.

How do you know when something isn’t good for a mobile device?

Large Blocks of Text

Dense walls of text may be cheaper to print on paper, but they are harder to read, and on a website, they are completely unnecessary.

When you are trying to read something on a smartphone, the best bet is to write information in short paragraphs. This doesn’t a writer can skimp on the quality of the content. It’s just that formatting information like this is easier on the eyes.

Lack of Headings

Readers on the internet tend to skim their content, especially when they’re looking for answers involving a product or a purchase. Over half of web searchers report that they don’t read an entire post. Instead, they look for the relevant piece that tells them what they want to know.

The best way to help them (especially on a mobile screen) is to use headings that indicate what a section will be about.

Lack of Images

These days, you almost never see a blog post without an image attached. If you do, odds are that it isn’t getting clicked, read, or shared.

#4 – Writers Who Don’t See the Big Picture

The last piece of the puzzle is less about writing, and more about blogging itself.

Good writers understand that each blog post is a piece of something larger: a way for a company to connect to its customer base.

What are some signs that your writer isn’t keeping their eyes on the big picture?

They Don’t Listen to You

If you hire an SEO content writer and you explain what sort of posts you want, you should get what you have ordered. Don’t settle for a writer who constantly changes the content, or attempts to inject an opinion that isn’t your own.

They Don’t Research Your Business

Your writer should also have a basic understanding of your business and your market in general. Some writers come to the table with a lot of relevant experience, and some with only a little. But if they aren’t already familiar with it and they don’t take the time to learn, then that’s a problem.

They Don’t Write for Your Audience

You want your writer to write content that will resonate with your ideal customers. While it’s true that an SEO content writer is there to attract the attention of search engines, they also need to be interesting to readers once they click their way to your site.

SteadyContent: Your SEO Content Writer Team

When you order content with SteadyContent, you take the guesswork out of finding the right writer for your blog.

We use a team approach, which minimizes risks and delivers real results. The first thing we do is take a look at the big picture for your blog, and find out what keywords and topics will be the perfect material for your readership.

Next, our writers prepare your posts according to your unique needs. Whether you want long-form articles or frequent, short posts, we tailor all our content to your specifications.

Finally, our team of editors meticulously checks each post, ensuring quality writing, relevant SEO, and proper formatting.

If you’re interested in finding out more, we have a specially-priced trial package specifically designed for new clients. Don’t wait to boost your rankings and traffic: take your blog to the next level, and get in touch with SteadyContent today!

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Working With a Kitchen Designer in Coconut Grove

After you purchase real estate, the first thing you may consider is changing, upgrading, or completely demolishing aspects of your home that don’t suit your needs or style. Giving your kitchen a facelift can be a surefire way to enhance your home’s aesthetics and functionality while increasing its value. In areas like Coconut Grove, Brickell, and S. Beach properties sell at a premium. Any work done should be the highest quality achievable within your budget. It’s for that reason many people consider hiring a professional designer.

Why Use a Kitchen Designer?

Working with a kitchen designer can help you achieve a polished and professional finish. The experience they have in remodeling can ultimately save you time and money. Anything more than minor changes to your kitchen, such as knobs, superficial fixtures, etc., should be handled by a professional. Considering building codes, material costs, and access to reputable contractors all add layers of complexity to your project, kitchens are not a do-it-yourself job. You will want the finished product to be accurate, safe and insurable

Types Of Professional Designers

The designer you should choose depends on the work you need to be done and where you are getting your supplies. National chains and retailers will often have designers on staff at little to no cost. There are also private designers that work on a per contract basis. Although they cost more, they may give you more impartial advice on materials and design because they rarely have direct brand affiliations.

Locating A Designer

When trying to find a designer, seeking the recommendations of friends and family is useful. Some communities like Coral Gables and Pinecrest have designers many homeowners have used with solid reputations. There are also resources like the National Kitchen and Bath Association, which list reputable designers. No matter where you locate your designer, they should have a portfolio of their previous work to review.

Honing In On A Designers Expertise

Keep in mind; designers may be more versed in some areas. If you have a modest single family home and are not looking for opulent trimmings, picking a designer that specializes in upgrading luxury real estate may not be the best way to go. Also, some owners have unique property aspects they may want to be enhanced. For example, waterfront properties have the potential for unique design ideas like open-air walls. Ask potential designers share their design strengths and note their weaknesses.

Once you have chosen a designer, prepare yourself for your consultation and design process by:
Determining your budget
Listing the pros and cons of your existing space
Having some idea of what you would like
Maintaining flexibility about what you want vs. what can be achieved
Agreeing on a time line in writing
Knowing you can ask for multiple draft plans, and agreeing to a number in writing
Minimizing the changes you make as the project progresses

Most importantly, be patient. Doing a remodel properly is a process and there will be some inconvenience to you as your project is in the works.

Our site is your premier resource for real estate related topics in Miami Beach, Coconut Grove, and the surrounding areas. If you have a question, we likely have an answer. Check out some of our other articles, blogs, and resources.

Is PRP Facial Treatment Right for You?

At the Osteopathic Center, we specialize in the latest PRP facial treatment technology and cosmetic therapies. We understand signs of aging, trauma, acne scarring, and sun damage can become heavily evident on your face and neck after time. Also, common issues, like dark under eye circles, can greatly change the way other’s perceive you. Fortunately, PRP facial rejuvenation can help restore and correct such imperfections.

 

Platelet-rich plasma, PRP, has been used as an effective treatment in orthopedic medicine, dentistry, and reconstructive surgery for 30 years. It is garnering mainstream popularity due to its proven effectiveness and organic approach to cosmetic improvements. Your own blood platelets are used in the procedure, rather than a host of chemicals, to renew the appearance of your skin.

How PRP Differs from Other Fillers

PRP facial treatment is able to stimulate your own collagen, promoting total facial rejuvenation rather than attempting to attack individual wrinkles. If your face is beginning to sink in from age it can add volume and youthful plumpness. The volumizing effect extends to under eye hollows and sunken cheeks. Also improved are skin tone, tightness, and overall texture.

 

This is in stark contrast to hyaluronic acid fillers that can be ineffective in many areas due to placement difficulty or the penetration of treatment. That said, our team can advise you on whether a pairing of the two types therapies can provide more pronounced results. What may be needed will be dependent on your skin’s condition.

How PRP Facial Treatment Works

Platelets are designed to help your body’s tissues heal and grow new cells. Your body responds best to its own cells, so using your freshly prepared PRP virtually eliminates the possibility of negative side effects. Each session only takes about 20 minutes.

 

During your session, a small amount of blood will be drawn. While your PRP is prepared your face and/or neck will be cleansed and prepped for treatment.The PRP that is injected into your skin will trigger the natural regeneration of damaged tissue and collagen production. Since PRP therapy is far less invasive than traditional plastic surgery techniques there is no post-procedure care time required.

 

Effects of your treatment will begin to show two to three weeks after your session and will improve with time.  Ideally, you will receive three treatments spaced about two weeks apart for maximum benefit.  Results can last for up to 18 months.  

5 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing Taxes

According to data published by The Wall Street Journal, 3.7 million Americans submitted amended federal income tax returns in 2015. These amended returns were filed to take advantage of tax deductions/credits, to submit fresh financial information, and to add new income data.

It is important to note that you cannot e-file amended returns. In other words, you have to file them by sending hard copies using the USPS. The best way to avoid the extra time and expense of filing a hard-copy amendment is to get things right the first time. Here are the ways to avoid common filing mistakes:

Math Errors

Math errors are quite common on tax returns and constitute the first category of errors to be flagged, the IRS explains. In some cases, IRS employees correct computational and clerical errors.

This is especially true for paper returns, which are more likely to have missing or misquoted figures than electronically filed returns. To avoid such mistakes, double-check the figures that you provide throughout the first two pages of your returns.

Erroneous Social Security Number

This error is particularly common among people who claim a dependent exemption, because they have to list the SSNs or ITINs for their dependents. If you have dependents, you should verify all the SSNs/ITINs listed on your tax return to ensure they are correct.

One of the best ways to do this is by double-checking all the social security numbers on your tax return against the actual cards.

Alternatively, you can verify this data from the actual cardholders.

Filing Status

Another common filing mistake that you should avoid is providing an erroneous filing status. This can occur when separated couples file their returns separately while the IRS’s records show that they are still married.

To avoid having to correct your return, verify your filing status. It determines the deductions and credits you receive, and may lower your tax responsibility. Either way, make sure to use the correct filing status or you may end up with an IRS lien on your property.

Names

While it may seem absurd, many taxpayers actually misspell their names when filing their returns due to a number of reasons.

For starters, the current tax preparation software tools do not cover the entirety and cultural diversity of American names, which means they could mispronounce your name or offer a closely similar one. If you fail to verify every detail, you could enter an incorrect name on your return.

In addition, individuals who file returns on behalf of others, including tax/financial consultants may end up mispronouncing their client’s names. Divorced individuals could accidentally use the names of former spouses even after legally adopting other names.

Erroreoneous Income Details

If you are a contractor or freelance employee who receives a form 1099 for taxable income, make sure to keep detailed records of all sources of income. Also, make sure to report them correctly. Penalties from the IRS for unreported earnings are very steep.

Remember, the IRS keeps track of all legal transactions via form 1099.

The penalties for this offense vary depending on the size of unreported earnings and could include wage garnishment.

It is important to note that any federal refund, credit, or extension should be filed within three years of the original filing.

Conclusion

Every year, millions of Americans file tax returns that contain mistakes, including misspelled names, erroneous income figures, computation/math errors, erroneous Social Security Numbers, and wrong filing statuses. Avoid the hassle of amending your return by thoroughly checking your math, your status, and your name before you file.

SEO is an Investment That Grows Your Business!

SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, is one part of an effective website design. If you are not already using SEO, it should be part of your marketing strategy. It can be implemented quickly and easily using the right content writer. Here are 5 reasons to implement SEO today:

It Takes Time to See ROI – Get Started!

SEO is a very effective marketing strategy and can drive thousands of customers to your website monthly. However, it takes time to see ROI, or “Return On Investment.” This means implementing SEO takes patience. A recent survey shows that 94 percent of online marketers using SEO effectively plan to continue or increase their current SEO budget. Hiring an agency to create SEO content can be expensive, but the cost is worth it. The investment pays for itself in increased brand recognition and greater search and referral-driven traffic. So be patient. You will see the return on your SEO investment soon.

Golden Age Of SEO

We are in a “Golden Age” right now, where black hat tactics and manipulation are no match for SEO. There was a time when competitors could displace their competition using these underhanded strategies. Now, however, SEO reigns and your company can benefit greatly. This is the time to invest in SEO, before digital assistants and immediate answers take over the search engine territory.

Reap Greater Rewards By Compounding Returns

With every word of content you post, every link you establish, you are increasing your search visibility. This is called “Compounding Returns.” Essentially, you are building your reputation one post or link at a time. The more you put your business out there, the more authority you have on the web. The longer this goes on, the more you will reap conversions and referral traffic. The sooner you start building your reputation and compounding your interest growth, the sooner you will reap rewards.

Don’t Let Your Competitors Pull Away

The longer you wait to start utilizing SEO, the more you will lose out on high-ranking positions for lucrative keywords. Your competitors will build their defenses around their positions, making it harder to get in. They will add more targeted keywords and increase their rankings. The best way to avoid missing out is to get in now. Start using SEO today.

You’ve Nothing to Lose. Give It a Try

Don’t be intimidated by agencies that try to convince you to sign a six-month contract. There are SEO agencies out there that will work with you to accomplish your goals. Talk to professionals. Establish a budget and get started. Results will take time, but you can tweak things as you go. The sooner you get started, the better ROI you will see.

Don’t let the competition win because you didn’t join the race. Start using SEO and maximize your web exposure today.

Fund Your Retirement with Real Estate Investments

We are all familiar with the standard types of accounts when it comes to later-in-life financial planning. However, in the current economy, these accounts will only guarantee you the minimum standard of living. If you’re looking for a little luxury in your later years, consider funding your retirement through real estate investments. Real estate has been used for years by savvy individuals, and it’s your turn to join the ranks of the successfully retired.

Passive Retirement Income

Investing in real estate allows you to enjoy the benefits of a passive income. Passive income is achieved by investing in properties that will generate cash flow beyond what is needed to sustain the investment. In other words, any money you make after you pay the mortgage and upkeep the property goes into your pocket. These funds will pad your retirement, allowing you to leave the workplace and enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.

Multifamily Properties Maximize Passive Retirement Income

A MDU, or multi-dwelling unit, has two or more dwellings underneath one roof. Each unit has a kitchen, living area, bathroom(s), and bedroom(s). An example of a MDU is an apartment building. Investing in one or more MDUs can maximize passive income, which we already discussed above, by providing multiple revenue streams from the purchase of one property. The income from each unit is independent of the others, meaning the loss of income from one unit will not automatically cause the loss of income from the other units. Investing in an MDU is a smart way to maximize your return, since purchasing one apartment building is easier than purchasing several single-family homes. An MDU can also guarantee you have a place to live during your retirement, since you can reside in one of the units while turning a profit on the others.

Benefits of Investing in Multi-family Properties

There are several benefits to investing in MDUs, or multi-family properties. Beyond creating passive income, let’s look at what makes MDUs especially attractive as a retirement investment.

Multiple Streams of Income
As we stated above, a multi-family property will be occupied by several, separate tenants all paying rent independently of each other. If you lose a tenant, you still have others paying rent while you fill the empty unit. There’s no such guarantee of income from a single-family home. If a single-family home is empty, it’s not generating revenue for your retirement. The same could be said for multi-unit office spaces, if you’re looking for a higher-dollar investment. Multiple units equal multiple ways to make money.

Less Expensive to Manage
When you purchase a MDU, you have the option to hire a property management company. The overhead to hire the company and manage the property will be significantly less than the overhead to manage several single-family homes. A management company will handle things like rent collection and soliciting tenants, allowing you to relax and enjoy your retirement.

Invest with Less Risk
Even in a down economy, multi-family properties usually have tenants. This means your risk is less when investing in these types of properties. You should be able to draw passive income even in harder economic times. Also, having multiple dwellings means your revenue streams are not dependent on each other. This also equals less risk.