As a business grows or times change, the content on your website will need to be revisited and updated in line with this growth and evolution. There’s no set timescale for when content will need to be updated, but there are ways that you can gauge the best time to revisit them. We’ll talk you through how to do so.
Why does updating content matter?
Keeping your content up to date is essential for two main reasons: it boosts your Google rankings and keeps your visitors engaged. When your content is fresh and up-to-date, search engines are more likely to favour your site, making it easier for potential visitors to find you.
In fact, regularly updating your content ensures that visitors keep coming back for more, maintaining their interest and engagement over time. If your content becomes outdated, it can damage your site’s credibility, and visitors will dwindle.
By consistently refreshing your content, you not only improve your site’s visibility but also foster trust and loyalty among your audience.
How often should you update content?
When deciding how frequently your content needs updating, there are several things to consider. Here are some guidelines to help you find the right balance:
- Audience engagement: Consider your audience’s preferences. How often do users return to your site? Do they expect to be updated regularly or periodically due to the frequency of their visits?
- Industry dynamics: Look at how quickly things are changing and updating within your industry. Are there frequent changes and developments that require you to revise your content regularly?
- Content type: Different types of content will require different approaches. For example, news articles and event updates might need to be updated more regularly, whereas evergreen content such as guides and tutorials won’t require much refresh.
- Performance analysis: Keep a regular eye on your performance metrics, including traffic, engagement, and conversion rates. Identify any patterns and trends to highlight where certain pages need revision.
Tips for updating content effectively
So, now you know when to update your content, how do you make the right changes? Here are some simple but powerful tips for refreshing your content:
- Add value: Focus on enhancing the quality of your content by adding new information, examples, or insights. Carefully read your content to ensure all the facts and figures are still relevant, and revise these where necessary.
- Consider your readers: Make sure your updates are not only beneficial for SEO but also improve the overall user experience. Include internal links so your readers can navigate to other valuable pieces of content and prioritise readability.
- Share updates: Once you’ve refreshed your content, don’t forget to promote it across various channels. This can help increase visibility and encourage readers to explore your latest additions.
Unfortunately, it’s not possible to know the exact moment that content needs to be updated. Still, we can check and review content regularly – especially pieces that aren’t evergreen. Being vigilant and proactive is the best way to keep up with content updates.
For more content advice, check out our blog. Alternatively, get in touch to find out more about our services.