How should title tags be written for better SEO and conversions?

Answered across 3 episodes of The Best SEO Podcast

Edited and curated by Matthew Bertram, host of The Best SEO Podcast (produced by EWR Digital).

The short answer

Include action words like shop, buy, or apply in the title tag so users know what to expect before clicking. Pair the action word with your main key phrase, end with a pipe and your brand name, and keep the full title under 55 characters per Google Webmaster Guidelines.

What the show says

Include action words like shop, buy, or apply in the title tag so users know what to expect before clicking. Pair the action word with your main key phrase, end with a pipe and your brand name, and keep the full title under 55 characters per Google Webmaster Guidelines.

From SEO Improvement Tips - #SEOpodcast 246

The biggest mistake is using only the company name in every title tag. Instead, lead with the main service or keyword for that page, for example 'water heater repair slash Joe Blow plumbing', so the title is descriptive and keyword rich.

From SERP and SEVO - #seopodcast 163

Think of the SERP listing as an advertisement. Include your main keyword but also add a supporting call to action or branding element. A title that just repeats the searched keyword with no supporting action gives users no reason to click.

From On-Page Optimization - #seopdocast 170

Episodes that cover this

Related answers

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