SEO Tips
Make your blog posts findable in search.
For everyone. SEO settings live in the Blog Editor's sidebar. Hubs can set global SEO guidelines in Brand Kit → Content Guidelines.
SEO isn't gaming algorithms — it's clearly communicating what your post covers so search engines can match it with queries.
Page elements
Title tag
The clickable headline in search results. Should:
- Include your main keyword
- Describe the content accurately
- Compel a click
- Stay under 60 characters (truncation point)
Better: "How to Choose a Franchise Location: 7 Factors That Matter" Worse: "Choosing a Location" (too vague)
Meta description
Below the title in search results. Not a direct ranking factor, but boosts click-through.
- Around 155 characters
- Include keyword naturally
- Give a reason to click
URL slug
Short, descriptive, keyword-inclusive.
| Better | Worse |
|---|---|
/choosing-franchise-location | /blog-post-47 |
/franchise-marketing-trends | /how-to-be-better-at-franchise-marketing-this-year-2024-edition |
Use hyphens between words; skip filler.
Content structure
| Element | Best practice |
|---|---|
| Headings | H1 once (the title), H2 for sections, H3 for subsections — include keywords naturally |
| Keyword in first paragraph | Establishes topic immediately |
| Length | Match the topic — 1,000+ for in-depth, shorter for news/announcements |
| Internal links | Link to your other posts with descriptive anchor text |
Write for humans first. Forced keyword stuffing reads worse and ranks worse.
Image optimization
| Element | Why |
|---|---|
| Alt text | Accessibility + search engines reading visual content |
| File names | franchise-location-map.jpg, not IMG_4521.jpg |
| File size | Compress — page speed affects rankings |
Internal linking
When you mention topics you've written about before, link to them. Distributes authority across your site, keeps readers engaged. Use descriptive anchor text:
| Better | Worse |
|---|---|
| Learn more about franchise social media strategy | Read more here |
What works
- Match the search intent. Someone searching "how to choose a franchise location" wants practical guidance — not a sales pitch.
- Provide real value. Content that teaches/informs/solves earns links and shares — both ranking signals.
- Update older content. Search engines reward maintained content. Refresh outdated info periodically.
- Write naturally first, optimize second. Your voice and expertise matter more than keyword density.