1 – Use Header Tags to Provide Clear Content Structure
Header tags help create a logical, scannable structure for your content, making it easier for users and search engines to navigate. Treat your H1 as the main title, H2s as chapters or main sections, and H3s through H6s as subsections within each chapter.
When planning your content, consider the key ideas you want your visitors to take away. These should form the basis of your header tag hierarchy, guiding you in crafting a clear, well-organized outline.
2 – Break Up Long Text with Relevant Subheadings
Enhance the readability and scanability of your content by breaking up long blocks of text with relevant subheadings. This user-friendly approach not only improves the experience for your audience, but also helps search engines identify the topics covered on your page.
Google rewards content that is easy to read and digest. Strategically placed subheadings (H2, H3, etc.) signal to the search engine which areas of your page are most important. This can contribute to better rankings, as well as increase the likelihood of your content being shared on social media, potentially earning valuable backlinks.
3 – Incorporate Keywords Naturally in Header Tags
When appropriate, include your target keywords in header tags. However, avoid overdoing it – focus on creating informative, engaging headers that accurately reflect the content below them. Keyword stuffing can lead to a poor user experience and potential search engine penalties.
Google uses header tags as context signals, so incorporate keywords naturally without compromising readability. The goal is to help the search engine understand the topics covered on your page, not trick the algorithm.
4 – Optimize for Featured Snippet Opportunities
Strategically crafted header tags can increase your chances of earning valuable featured snippets in the search results. To optimize for paragraph-based featured snippets, use an H2 to introduce a relevant long-tail keyword, then provide a clear, concise answer in the following paragraph.
For list-based featured snippets, leverage subheadings (H2 through H6) to outline step-by-step processes or itemized information. This structured approach makes it easier for Google to identify and extract the content needed to display your results in a prominent position.
5 – Maintain Consistent Header Tag Formatting
Ensure your header tags follow a consistent style and format throughout your website. This includes using the same capitalization (title or sentence case), keeping them concise (around 70 characters), and applying a uniform tone that aligns with your brand voice.
Consistency in your header tags contributes to a better user experience and helps establish a cohesive, professional image for your brand. When deciding on a format, consider your target audience and the overall tone of your content, then apply it consistently across all your pages.
6 – Make Your Header Tags Interesting and Engaging
While optimizing for search engines is important, don’t forget to craft header tags that are genuinely interesting and engaging for your human audience. Pay particular attention to your H1, as it can be the deciding factor in whether visitors stay on your page or bounce back to the search results.
A compelling H1 should communicate the main topic of your page in a way that aligns with user search intent and entices readers to continue exploring your content. Take the time to brainstorm and refine your header tags, ensuring they accurately reflect the value you’re providing.