So, you’ve been cranking out SEO blogs—maybe even weekly—and yet, you’re stuck on page two or three of Google (if you’re lucky). It’s frustrating, especially when you feel like you’re doing everything right. But the truth is, a lot of SEO blogs miss the mark in ways that aren’t always obvious. In this post, we’re going to dig into why your content might be underperforming and walk through the steps to fix it—without needing to be an SEO expert.

You’re Targeting the Wrong Keywords

High Search Volume Doesn’t Always Mean High Value

A common mistake with SEO blogs is chasing keywords with huge search volumes, thinking that more traffic equals more business. But traffic is meaningless if it doesn’t convert. For example, a roofing company might target “roofing tips” because it gets thousands of searches—but most of those users aren’t ready to hire anyone. They’re just browsing. You’re better off targeting specific, lower-volume phrases like “commercial roof coating services in PA” because those searches show buying intent.

You’re Ignoring Search Intent

Search intent is what the user actually wants when they type something into Google. Let’s say someone searches “best SEO blogs.” Are they looking for examples? A list to follow? Tips on writing their own? If you write a blog that’s purely promotional or veers off-topic, Google will bury it. Always ask: “What problem is the searcher trying to solve?” Then build your blog around solving that problem as clearly and directly as possible.

You’re Going Too Broad

Generic keywords might get traffic, but they don’t often lead to results—especially if you’re a smaller business competing against national brands. Trying to rank for “SEO blogs” without narrowing your focus is tough. Instead, use long-tail variations like “how SEO blogs help contractors get more leads” or “fixing SEO blogs that don’t rank.” These still use the core keyword but add clarity, context, and a stronger match to real-world searches.

How to Fix It

Start with keyword research, but go deeper than volume. Look at intent, relevance, and what kind of content already ranks. Use tools like Ubersuggest, Answer the Public, or even a manual Google search to spot gaps in content. Then, tailor your blog to hit a very specific pain point or question—because the blogs that rank best are the ones that solve real problems, not just check SEO boxes.

Your Content Lacks Depth

You’re Not Saying Anything New

Let’s be honest—most SEO blogs rehash the same surface-level advice. If your blog reads like a copy of every other article on page one, it’s not giving Google (or readers) a reason to care. Search engines prioritize content that adds something fresh to the conversation. That doesn’t mean you need to reinvent the wheel—but you do need to provide examples, insights, or real-world experience that sets your content apart.

It’s Too Short to Compete

Short blogs (think 300–500 words) rarely rank anymore—especially for competitive keywords. Google looks for thorough, well-explained answers. If your blog barely scratches the surface, you’re unlikely to get visibility. Aim for 1,000–2,000 words for most SEO blogs. Break up the length with strong formatting—headings, visuals, bullet points, etc.—to keep readers engaged while providing enough content to be valuable.

You’re Not Answering the Reader’s Real Questions

It’s easy to fall into the trap of writing what you think the reader should know instead of what they’re actually searching for. Let’s say you write a blog titled “Why SEO Blogs Are Important,” but you never explain how to write one, or whether they still work in 2025. If readers leave your page without answers, Google notices. The solution? Address the “People Also Ask” section directly in your blog to align with user needs.

How to Fix It

Before writing, outline your blog like you’re preparing to teach someone. Ask: What are their problems? What terms do they understand? What would you want to know if you were searching this topic for the first time? Use examples, stats, and explanations that reflect real scenarios. Rich, helpful content signals to Google that your SEO blogs are worth ranking.

You’re Over-Optimizing or Under-Optimizing

Keyword Stuffing Is Killing Your Flow

If your SEO blogs read like you’re trying to win a game of “how many times can I say the keyword,” you’re doing more harm than good. Keyword stuffing makes your content sound robotic and unnatural—and both readers and search engines pick up on that. Google’s algorithms are smart enough to detect overuse and may penalize the page, dropping it from search results altogether.

You’re Not Using Keywords Where They Count

On the flip side, if you barely use your target keyword at all, Google won’t understand what your blog is about. It’s not just about the body content—your keyword should appear in key places like the title tag, meta description, URL, first paragraph, and at least one H2. If you’re writing a blog about styling tips, but you never actually use the phrase “styling tips” until the last paragraph, you’re wasting your shot.

Your Meta Tags Are Missing or Weak

Every blog needs an optimized title and meta description—plain and simple. If you’re skipping these, or just letting your CMS auto-fill them, you’re leaving clicks on the table. A strong title tag with your keyword and a compelling description helps your blog stand out in search results and boosts your click-through rate.

How to Fix It

Use your keyword naturally and strategically. Don’t force it. Write your content first, then go back and make sure your keyword appears in the right spots without overloading the page. Tools like Yoast or Rank Math can help guide your on-page SEO without turning your blog into a keyword salad.

Your Blog Is Structurally Weak

No Headings Means No Direction

Big blocks of uninterrupted text are overwhelming to readers—and search engines. If your SEO blogs don’t use proper headings (H2s, H3s), Google has a harder time understanding the hierarchy of information, and your audience will probably skim right past the good stuff. Headings break up content, guide readers, and allow search engines to crawl your blog more effectively.

Paragraphs That Are Just Too Long

No one wants to read a six-sentence paragraph online. Long walls of text make your content feel heavy and hard to digest. Short, punchy paragraphs—two to four lines max—make your SEO blogs more inviting, especially on mobile. Remember: attention spans are short. Help readers stay engaged by making it easy to skim.

Weak or Missing CTAs

If you’re putting all this effort into creating content but you don’t give the reader a next step, you’re leaving conversions on the table. Whether it’s “Get a Free Quote,” “Download Our Style Guide,” or “Browse the Collection,” every blog should have a call to action that ties into your business goals. Otherwise, you’re just giving away free content with no ROI.

How to Fix It

Use clear headings every few paragraphs, and write for scanners—think subheads, bullet points, and bolded keywords. End each blog with a strong, relevant CTA that feels like a natural next step. Your SEO blogs should not only attract traffic but guide it toward action.

You’re Not Linking Internally

No Links Means Missed Opportunities

If your SEO blogs don’t include links to other pages on your site, you’re missing a major SEO win. Internal links help Google understand your site structure, distribute authority across your pages, and keep visitors engaged longer. A blog about SEO blogs should naturally link to your services, related posts, or a contact page.

You’re Only Linking to External Sites

Linking to credible external sources is great—it shows that you’ve done your research. But if you’re sending readers away from your site without giving them a reason to stay, you’re doing yourself a disservice. External links should support your content, not replace the value you can provide internally.

Your Anchor Text Is Weak or Repetitive

Using vague phrases like “click here” or “learn more” doesn’t tell Google (or the reader) what they’re about to see. Instead, use descriptive anchor text that includes relevant keywords. For example, instead of saying “read more here,” try “learn how SEO blogs improve your site’s visibility.”

How to Fix It

In every blog you write, link to at least two relevant pages on your site—this could be a service page, a product category, or another blog post. Make sure the anchor text is clear, natural, and gives context about what’s on the other side of the click. Your SEO blogs should act like signposts, guiding both readers and search engines through your site.

Your Content Isn’t Original

You’re Using Syndicated or Duplicate Content

If your SEO blogs come from a subscription service or were copied from another site—even with minor tweaks—Google’s not impressed. It sees duplicate content as low value, and it may not index or rank your blog at all. Worse, if multiple businesses are using the same content, none of them stand out.

You’re Repeating the Same Message Across Blogs

Even if you’re writing your own content, if every blog post just rewords the same ideas over and over, readers and search engines will catch on. SEO blogs should bring something new to the table each time: a fresh angle, a different case study, or a specific audience focus.

Your Voice Sounds Like Everyone Else’s

Originality isn’t just about the facts—it’s also about the tone. If your SEO blogs sound like they were written by a bot or a textbook, readers won’t connect. A conversational tone with your brand’s personality helps content feel human and memorable, which increases engagement and builds trust.

How to Fix It

Always write with your audience in mind—and write like you. Share real experiences, tell a short story, or explain something in your own words. Use tools like Copyscape to check for unintentional duplication. If you do use a blog writing service, rewrite the content so it fits your voice and actually serves your readers. Original SEO blogs stand out because they feel real.

Your Blogs Don’t Match Search Intent

You’re Writing What You Want—Not What They Need

One of the biggest reasons SEO blogs don’t rank is because they focus on what the business wants to say instead of what the reader is actually searching for. You might want to promote your latest service or highlight company news, but if someone’s Googling “how to choose a flat roof coating,” they don’t care about your company update. Give them answers first—then tie in your offer.

You’re Not Looking at the Top-Ranking Results

If you’re not checking what already ranks for your keyword, you’re flying blind. Google shows you exactly what kind of content it thinks matches the intent—whether it’s a how-to guide, a product comparison, or a checklist. If your blog is a general overview, but everyone else is ranking with step-by-step guides, yours won’t compete. Always study the top 3–5 results before writing.

You’re Answering the Wrong Questions

Let’s say your blog title is “Best SEO Blogs for Small Businesses,” but the post ends up talking mostly about your own company’s services. That’s misaligned. Searchers want to see examples of good blogs or tips to write their own—not a sales pitch. If you fail to deliver what the title promises, Google (and your readers) will move on fast.

How to Fix It

Put yourself in the searcher’s shoes. What are they hoping to learn? What do they expect to see when they click your headline? Use the “People Also Ask” box in Google to discover related questions. Let that guide the layout and flow of your SEO blogs. When your content lines up perfectly with what users want, Google rewards you with better rankings.

Your Site Experience Is Hurting You

Your Blog Loads Too Slowly

You could write the best SEO blogs in your industry—but if your page takes forever to load, users will bounce before they even read a sentence. Google notices that. Slow websites, especially on mobile, are a ranking killer. Heavy images, bloated plugins, or bad hosting can all drag your blog’s performance down.

It’s Not Mobile-Friendly

More than half of all blog traffic comes from mobile devices. If your blog isn’t responsive—if users have to pinch, zoom, or scroll sideways to read—it’s game over. Google prioritizes mobile usability in its rankings, and users won’t stick around if your blog feels clunky or broken on their phone.

You’re Making It Hard to Read

Tiny font sizes, poor color contrast, or chaotic layouts can ruin a good blog. If readers are squinting or can’t figure out where the content starts and ends, they’ll leave. Readability isn’t just about words—it’s about the full user experience.

How to Fix It

Run your site through tools like Google PageSpeed Insights and Mobile-Friendly Test. Compress images, remove unnecessary plugins, and use a clean, readable design. Your SEO blogs should be easy to access, fast to load, and enjoyable to read—no matter the device.

Make Your SEO Blogs Worth the Click

You don’t need to be an SEO expert to write blogs that rank—but you do need to understand what’s holding your content back. Whether it’s weak keywords, thin content, poor structure, or technical issues, each fix brings you one step closer to showing up where your audience is searching. Treat every blog like a chance to answer a real question, solve a real problem, and lead your reader somewhere valuable. If your SEO blogs are doing that, the rankings will follow.

Not sure where to start? LaunchUX can help. Our team specializes in building SEO blog strategies that drive traffic and generate real results. Contact us today to get your content working smarter—not harder.