SEO is essential. But if you’re new to it, making common mistakes can set you back big time. I get it—it’s overwhelming. You want to rank, but mistakes will waste your time, money, and energy. Let’s dive into 9 SEO mistakes you’ve got to avoid if you want to see results.
Key Takeaways
- Target low-competition keywords to start.
- Don’t go for super long articles immediately.
- Use header tags properly for structure.
- Avoid stuffing too many keywords.
- Ensure your site is mobile-friendly.
Choosing Overly Competitive Keywords
You’ve just started, and you’re up against brands that have been doing this for years. If you’re targeting high-traffic keywords, you’re playing a game you’re not ready for.
Better move?
Use low-competition or long-tail keywords. Tools like Ahrefs or Ubersuggest can help you find terms where you’ve got a fighting chance.
Writing Long Articles Without Purpose
We all know Google loves long content. But if you’re just starting, don’t waste your time writing a 6,000-word blog post on day one.
Start small.
Write focused posts of around 800–2,000 words. You’ll get better traction and refine your content strategy as you go.
Misusing Header TagsGoogle and readers both need to understand your structure.Your H1 is the title.
H2s are your main subtopics.
H3s break those down further.
Don’t randomly jump from H1 to H4. It confuses everyone, including search engines.
Overcomplicating Your Writing
A lot of beginners think SEO is about being super formal. It’s not.
If you’re writing like a college professor, you’re going to lose your audience.
Keep it conversational.
People want answers fast, not an essay.
Missing User Intent
You’re not just writing for Google; you’re writing for people. When someone searches for “Can I cure gum disease at home?,” they want solutions, not the definition of gum disease.
Answer the question directly. Understand why people are searching and cater your content to that.
Keyword Stuffing
This was hot in 2005. Not anymore.
Overusing keywords now gets you penalised.
Use related terms and phrases (like “SEO strategy” or “keyword research tools”) naturally within the text.
Skipping Alt Text for Images
Want a quick SEO win? Optimise your images.
Adding alt text to your images tells Google what they’re about. It’s simple, yet many skip it.
Not Planning Website Architecture
You can’t just slap random articles together.
Your site needs to be structured so each blog supports a central theme.
Think of it like a pyramid: all your articles should connect back to your core topics.
Use internal linking to boost relevance and help Google understand your niche.
Ignoring Mobile Optimisation
Google now prioritises mobile-first indexing.
If your site isn’t mobile-friendly, you’re in trouble.
Make sure your design looks good on phones and tablets, not just desktops.
FAQs
What are low-competition keywords?
These are keywords with fewer competitors but decent search volume. Great for beginners.
How do I know if I’m keyword stuffing?
If the same keyword appears unnaturally multiple times, it’s probably overkill. Use related terms instead.
Why is mobile optimisation crucial?
Most traffic comes from mobile devices. A poor mobile experience increases bounce rates, killing your rankings.
