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1. Duplicate Content
Having the same or very similar content on multiple pages can negatively impact SEO.
2. Broken Links
Links that lead nowhere or to error pages create a bad user experience and can harm SEO.
3. Slow Page Load Times
Slow-loading pages can frustrate users and negatively affect search engine rankings.
4. Old Publish Dates
Avoid older dates showing up against recently published or updated content. This hurts your CTR and your rankings.
5. Thin Content
Pages with very little useful content are often ranked lower by search engines.
6. Missing Alt Tags and Broken Images
Images without alt tags or broken images can affect SEO as they contribute to the overall content quality and accessibility.
7. Unoptimised Meta Descriptions and Titles
Titles and descriptions that are not optimised for keywords and readability can impact click-through rates and rankings.
8. Improper Use of Header Tags
Not using header tags (H1, H2 ... H6) correctly can make it harder for search engines to understand the structure and content of a page.
9. Lack of Quality Backlinks
Not having enough high-quality backlinks can affect a site's authority and ranking.
10. Poor User Experience (UX)
Websites that are difficult to navigate or unengaging can lead to high bounce rates, which can negatively impact SEO.
11. Overuse of Keywords (Keyword Stuffing)
Excessively using keywords can lead to penalties from search engines for spammy behaviour.
12. Not Using Structured Data (Schema Markup)
Failing to implement structured data (Schema Markup) can result in missed opportunities to enhance search result listings and improve click-through rates.
13. Inconsistent NAP (Name, Address, Phone Number) for Local SEO
Inconsistencies in business listings can harm local SEO efforts.
14. Ignoring Social Signals
While not a direct ranking factor, social signals (like shares and likes) can indirectly affect SEO by increasing visibility and traffic.
15. Image Pages in WordPress
Every image uploaded may have its own page, which Google indexes. Plugins like Yoast can redirect attachment URLs to the image, maintaining a clean site footprint.
16. HTTP Pages
Ensure all pages are secure (HTTPS). Use the site:domain inurl:-https search command to find non-secure pages.
17. Unintended Indexed Pages
Perform a site:domain search with terms like "Lorem ipsum", "Portfolio", "Demo", "Index", "Error", "Test", or a blank search to find and address low-quality pages.
What other common SEO issues would you add?
Author: «Jake Ward»
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