Title tags are vital for SEO. When you include relevant keywords, they can help rank your page better. These tags are the first thing that users see in the SERP. Thus, you need to optimize them to make a good first impression. But our SEO expert Danny has been asked by our clients about the impact of adding dates to title tags. Keep reading to find out more.
SEO Expert’s Take on Adding Dates to Title Tags
During a recent Google Search SEO hangout, John Mueller of Google states that “If you want to. I don’t think it changes anything. For news articles, I do think it makes sense to include the date in various places on the page, and that can include the title.”
In that case, if it can help the user, then adding dates to title tags can boost search ranking. But there are other ways to optimize your title tags to help with your rankings.
Be Descriptive
Google itself recommends the title tag be descriptive and concise. Keep in mind that most search queries contain only 3 words. Thus, it’s ideal that you use descriptive keywords that would fit the format.
Give the Page a Unique Title
When finding the right title tag for your page, you need to understand how search engines work. The title tag is being used by search engines to understand what your page is all about. Many CMS pulls the on-page H1 to be used as a meta title. Although it’s okay, this is not the most ideal way to optimize the title tag. The best strategy is to research keywords and customize them so it performs better over time.
You should also avoid using general title tags. It’s also vital that you avoid using the same search keywords on various pages. This will help in avoiding keyword cannibalization.
Add Relevant Keywords First
Adding your targeted keywords closer to the front of the tag may have a small impact on your ranking. But that small impact can improve click-through rates. Keep in mind that when people search for something on Google, they only scan the first few words of the title. Thus, to entice them to click on the link, you should use relevant keywords, secondary keywords, and branding.
Be Aware of the Length
Title tags have a length. The title must not exceed 60 characters in length. If they do, search engines will only truncate it. Then, if it’s not enough, the search engine will provide a title tag automatically. Thus, you need to keep this in mind when crafting your title tags.
Don’t Stuff Keywords
Keyword stuffing is frowned upon. Don’t include many keywords because they will be cut off. It hurts the user experience and downgrades your rankings.
Need More Help?
If you need more guidance when it comes to writing optimized title tags, let our SEO expert help you. Call us today to ensure your title tags get clicked through (855) 605-7361.