Laura returns with a mini-master class in duplicate content. Prepare to learn what it is and why it matters on this episode of the Better Biz Academy podcast!
As a freelance writer, it is paramount to understand that you cannot get away with copying someone else’s work. Even if it is unintentional, word-for-word phrasing already used on other sites has dire consequences for search engine rankings – not to mention the loss of credibility you will suffer as a freelancer.
Laura explains how to protect yourself and provide a guarantee that your content is 100% original! Click and listen to learn how to identify duplicate content and help your clients stay out of “Google jail.”
Key Takeaways
The definition of duplicate content
- A situation in which a website has been copied, be it 100% or 5%
- Google identifies duplicate content and gauges which site is original based on who posted first
The consequences of duplicate content
- Website is blacklisted from search engine rankings
- No traction for your website means no new business
The benefits of using Copyscape
- Helps businesses avoid “Google jail” by confirming that content is unique to their site
- Allows freelancers to guarantee work is 100% original by flagging situations in which they may have inadvertently picked up on a phrase used on another site
- Gives freelancers the opportunity to ensure that someone else is not using their content without permission
Laura’s advice for freelancers hired by clients with duplicate content
- If they are unaware, you have a responsibility to let them know
- Start from scratch rather than trying to fix the existing plagiarized content
- Don’t let the client bully you into a lower rate because the previous writer was dishonest
Laura’s tips to avoid inadvertently submitting duplicate content
- Don’t use word-for-word quotes unless absolutely necessary
- Provide links to the original sources of data you cite
- Safeguard yourself by providing clients with a courtesy Copyscape that guarantees original content
Resources
Laura’s Full List of Courses https://laurapennington.teachable.com/
Connect with Laura Pennington
Blog http://sixfigurewritingsecrets.com/blog/
Twitter https://twitter.com/sixfigurewriter
