Can the canned copy: use original content on your website
Posted on | June 25, 2008 |
Recently I ran across a major problem with a client’s website. It was quite by accident really. I discovered that a large portion of the copy on their website was canned copy.
Well, no big deal you say? Actually it is. This is known as a duplicate content issue, and is something that can get your results hammered in Google. What ends up happening is that if Google sees your page being substantially the same as another, it may put it in the supplemental results.
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This is not good. It means your page won’t show up in the search results. No offense to everyone out there, but most surfers aren’t that sophisticated and won’t click on that message you see below your search results.
But even if they do, where will your results appear? Do you really think potential site visitors will search through 1,000 or more repeated results just to find your page? I doubt it.
All the money you’ve spent getting your website up and running and hopefully pulling in business for you is essentially wasted because your site has been pushed into the supplemental results.
Solution to duplicate content
The solution to this issue really is quite simple. Get a professional writer to produce your content. It doesn’t have to be expensive, and good writers are worth the money.
A good writer knows how to get to the point and will word things differently so you don’t run into the duplicate content issue.
If you’re looking at a content management system for your business, resist the urge to use canned copy that might be included with it. You’re not their only client. Don’t take the easy way if you want to see your site appear in the search results.
Rewriting content
A good portion of my day today will be rewriting that client’s content so he won’t be stuck in the supplemental results. It will take a bit of time to get out of there, but it will be worth it. Of course I’ll do the proper search engine optimization on the copy to make sure the right keywords are in his copy, while making sure it speaks to the site visitor.
This client is looking forward to seeing his site actually appearing in the search results now.
Alain Saffel
If you suspect you have a problem with your site content, Clearpath SEO can help. Whether your site isn’t getting the results you expected in terms of visitors, conversions or sales, you just need to freshen up your site content, or need help with all forms of Internet marketing, Clearpath SEO can advise you on the best course of action.
Clearpath SEO is an Edmonton company with branches in Calgary and Scottsdale. The company’s primary focus is on search engine optimization and Internet marketing, such as Google AdWords and Facebook ads. Clearpath also can help with all forms of content writing, having a solid writing staff ready to roll on your project.
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July 9th, 2008 @ 4:34 am
I’m glad to see some smart advice coming from local SEO experts. Keep up the good work.