33: How to Create Unique Content for SEO [p2]

Summary

In this episode, Meredith’s husband expands on how to create unique and engaging blog content that aligns with Google’s "Helpful Content" update. He suggests focusing on authentic storytelling by identifying your "secret sauce," or what makes your content different. The episode provides a step-by-step guide to writing a blog that showcases your unique qualities, helping website owners produce more effective, user-focused content.

Blog Post: Creating Authentic Content for Google’s Helpful Content Update

Google's "Helpful Content" update is a game changer for website owners. It shifts the focus from producing content purely for search engine optimization (SEO) to creating user-centered material that genuinely helps readers. In this episode, Meredith’s husband dives into how website owners can approach blogging with a fresh perspective, ensuring their content stands out by being both unique and helpful.

Why Authenticity Matters

At the core of creating effective blog content is the idea of being authentic. Generic listicles like “Top 10 Tools” might capture attention momentarily, but they often lack substance. Readers are growing more discerning, and Google’s new update aims to filter out content that doesn’t provide real value. As website owners, this is an opportunity to showcase what makes your content or business special. Rather than following cookie-cutter SEO strategies, focus on telling your story.

Meredith’s husband introduces a helpful exercise for determining your "secret sauce"—the unique element that only you can bring to your content. Whether it's your personal voice, specific expertise, or the way you engage with your audience, understanding what sets you apart is key to creating content that resonates.

How to Build a Unique Blog Post

Once you’ve identified your "secret sauce," the next step is translating it into a blog post that engages your audience. Here’s a simple guide to structure your post:

• Introduction: Start with a few sentences explaining what your post is about. If it’s personal, you might begin by saying, “People always ask me how I get such engagement in my photography sessions.” This creates a direct connection with your reader and sets the tone.

• List Your Unique Ingredients: Present the key elements that make your work or perspective different. Meredith’s example focused on three points that contribute to her photography's success:

  • Be curious: Show genuine curiosity about your subject or the task at hand.

  • Speak from the heart: Make a personal, authentic connection.

  • Give 100% of your focus: Be fully engaged with the task or subject.

• Expand on Each Ingredient: Under each bullet point, explain what it means and why it’s important. Provide personal stories or anecdotes to give context. For example, Meredith might describe a recent photography session where her curiosity about a client’s story led to more genuine, engaged photos.

The Value of Storytelling

Incorporating stories into your blog helps readers see the real-life applications of your advice. For Meredith, discussing how she engages her clients on set would give potential customers a glimpse into her process without feeling like a sales pitch. It’s about connecting on a personal level, showing what makes you and your work unique. The same applies whether you're a photographer, writer, or run an e-commerce site.

Repurpose Your Content

One of the most valuable pieces of advice from the episode is how to repurpose content across different platforms. After writing a blog post, consider breaking it down into smaller chunks for social media. Each key point can be turned into an Instagram or Facebook post, each linked back to the full blog. This multiplies your content’s impact while driving traffic back to your website.

Conclusion: Remember Your Secret Sauce

As Meredith’s husband reminds us, it’s important to end your blog with a clear takeaway. Summarize your main points and give your readers something to remember. Whether it's encouraging them to focus on their unique strengths or reminding them to approach tasks with curiosity and focus, make sure your final words resonate.

By focusing on what makes you different and telling your story in an authentic, engaging way, you can create content that not only satisfies Google’s "Helpful Content" criteria but also builds a loyal, engaged audience.

Resources

Meredith’s husband references this approach in previous episodes about creating unique and resourceful blog content. Make sure to revisit those episodes to deepen your understanding.