We all know content is crucial in digital marketing, and old content can quickly become outdated. Instead of letting it go to waste, we’ll show you how to refresh it to attract a whole new audience and boost your website’s traffic.
Why update old content?
Before diving into the “how,” let’s understand the “why.” Updating old content offers several benefits:
- Improved SEO: Search engine algorithms favour fresh, relevant content. Updating older posts with current information, optimised keywords, and internal links can significantly boost your search engine rankings.
- Increased Traffic: By making your content more relevant and engaging, you can attract new visitors and re-engage existing ones.
- Enhanced Authority: Updating old content with the latest insights and data positions you as an expert in your field.
- Content Repurposing: Updating existing content can provide a foundation for creating new content formats, such as videos or infographics.
- Cost-Effective: Updating old content is often more efficient than creating entirely new pieces.
Strategies for updating old content:
Conduct a content audit:
- Start by identifying your best-performing and underperforming content.
- Analyse which topics are still relevant and which need updating.
- Use tools like Google Analytics and Google Search Console to assess traffic, engagement, and keyword performance.
Update information and data:
- Ensure all information is accurate and up-to-date.
- Replace outdated statistics and examples with current data.
- Add recent research and industry insights.
Optimise for SEO:
- Conduct keyword research to identify relevant terms and phrases.
- Update titles, headings, and meta descriptions with targeted keywords.
- Improve internal and external linking.
- Ensure your content is mobile-friendly and loads quickly.
Enhance content quality:
- Improve readability by using clear language and short paragraphs.
- Add visuals, such as images, videos, and infographics, to make your content more engaging.
- Expand on existing points and provide more in-depth information.
- Add a fresh intro and conclusion.
Repurpose and expand:
- Expand on existing topics by creating related blog posts or articles.
- Create a series of posts on a related topic, using your old content as a starting point.
Promote your updated content:
- Share your updated content on social media platforms.
- Send an email newsletter to your subscribers.
- Update any social media posts that link to the old content.
Tips for Success:
- Focus on Evergreen Content: Prioritise updating content that remains relevant over time.
- Create a Content Update Schedule: Regularly review and update your content to maintain its freshness.
- Monitor Your Results: Track your website traffic, engagement, and search engine rankings to assess the effectiveness of your updates.
- Don’t Just Change Dates: Actually change the content.
Updating old content is a powerful strategy for driving new traffic to your website and maximising the value of your existing content. By following these tips, you can breathe new life into your old posts and articles.
Need a hand with your content strategy? We’re just a phone call away, 01202 677277.
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