SEO basics for freelance copywriters: how to write blogs that rank
Let’s talk about SEO. The three little letters that can make or break a blog post’s ability to actually be read. Because let’s face it, even the most beautifully written article isn’t much use if it’s gathering dust on page 14 of Google.
If you’re a freelance copywriter looking to level up your skills, mastering the basics of SEO isn’t just nice to have—it’s an absolute must. Why? Because clients LOVE a copywriter who can not only string a sentence together but also understands how to make those sentences appear in search results.
So, without further ado, here’s your no-nonsense guide to writing blogs that rank.
1. Start with killer keyword research
Keywords are the bread and butter of SEO. Think of them as the bridge between what people are searching for and the content you’re creating.
Start by asking yourself (or your client):
What questions is the audience asking?
What problems are they trying to solve?
From there, dive into some keyword research tools like Google Keyword Planner, SEMrush, or even Ubersuggest. Look for keywords that are relevant, have decent search volume, and aren’t too competitive.
Pro tip: Long-tail keywords (think “how to write a blog that ranks on Google” instead of just “blog writing”) often give you a better chance of ranking, especially for newer or smaller sites.
2. Think like your reader (and Google)
SEO isn’t just about stuffing keywords into a blog and calling it a day. It’s about creating content that’s genuinely useful and enjoyable for your reader.
Google’s main goal is to serve up the most relevant and high-quality content for its users. So, your job is to make sure your blog ticks both boxes.
Ask yourself:
Is this blog answering the searcher’s query?
Is it easy to read and understand?
Does it offer something unique or valuable?
If your content delights readers, Google will take notice.
3. Write headlines that grab attention (and include your keywords)
Your headline is the first thing people see—so make it count. It needs to be clear, compelling, and include your primary keyword.
Here’s a little formula to play with:
[Keyword] + [Promise/Benefit] + [Intrigue]
For example:
“SEO basics for freelance copywriters: how to write blogs that rank”
“How to create content that ranks: 7 SEO tips every writer needs”
Keep it under 60 characters if you can—longer headlines may get cut off in search results.
4. Structure like a pro
No one likes a giant wall of text. Not your readers, and certainly not Google.
Break your blog into digestible chunks with headers (H1, H2, H3) that guide the reader through your content. And yes, include keywords in those headers where it feels natural.
Here’s a simple structure:
Introduction: Hook your reader and introduce the topic.
Main body: Dive into key points, each with its own header.
Conclusion: Summarise the blog and include a clear call to action (e.g., “Contact me to discuss your next project!”).
And don’t forget to use bullet points or numbered lists for extra readability.
5. Sprinkle keywords (don’t stuff them)
Keyword stuffing is a big SEO no-no. Instead, aim to include your target keywords naturally throughout the blog.
Some good places to include them:
Title
Headers
First 100 words
Meta description
Image alt text
Remember, if it sounds awkward or forced, leave it out. A well-written, natural blog will always perform better than one crammed with keywords.
6. Optimise your meta description
Your meta description is the little snippet of text that appears under your blog’s title in search results. It’s your chance to convince people to click through, so make it snappy, descriptive, and keyword-rich.
For example:
“Learn SEO basics for freelance copywriters with this no-nonsense guide. Discover how to write blogs that rank on Google and boost your client’s visibility!”
Aim for around 155-160 characters, and make sure it includes your primary keyword.
7. Link like a boss
Internal and external links are the unsung heroes of SEO.
Internal links point to other pages on the same website, helping to keep readers engaged and spread SEO value around.
External links point to high-quality, authoritative sites, showing Google that your content is well-researched and credible.
And if you can get a few backlinks (where other sites link to your blog)? Even better. Backlinks are a big deal for SEO.
8. Make it mobile-friendly
Fun fact: Over half of all web traffic comes from mobile devices. If your blog isn’t mobile-friendly, you’re alienating a HUGE chunk of potential readers—and Google will penalise you for it.
Most modern website platforms handle mobile optimisation for you, but it’s always worth double-checking how your blog looks on a smaller screen.
9. Don’t forget the images
Images make your blog more visually appealing and help break up text, but they can also boost your SEO when used correctly.
Use high-quality images that are relevant to your content.
Compress your images so they don’t slow down page load times.
Add alt text that describes the image and includes your keyword.
10. Track your progress
SEO isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it kind of deal. Once your blog is live, keep an eye on how it’s performing.
Tools like Google Analytics and Google Search Console can show you:
How much traffic your blog is getting
Which keywords it’s ranking for
Where readers are dropping off
Use this data to tweak and improve your strategy for future blogs.
Bonus: add a call to action
Every blog should end with a clear next step. Whether it’s signing up for a newsletter, contacting you for freelance work, or reading another blog, tell your reader what to do next.
For example:
“Looking for a freelance copywriter who knows their SEO? Get in touch to see how I can help you create content that ranks—and converts!”
Final thoughts
SEO might seem a little intimidating at first, but trust me, it’s not rocket science. With a bit of practice (and this guide in your back pocket), you’ll be writing blogs that rank in no time.
As a freelance copywriter, offering SEO-optimised content is a massive value-add for your clients—and a great way to boost your own income, too.