Top 10 SEO Mistakes That Kill Your Google Rankings (And How to Avoid Them)
SEO
Dhruv Joshi
5/1/20252 min read
Top 10 SEO Mistakes That Kill Your Google Rankings (And How to Avoid Them)
Hey there, business owners and marketers 👋
Let’s face it, ranking high on Google is no longer a luxury; it’s survival. But here's the truth: most websites unknowingly sabotage their rankings by making avoidable SEO mistakes.
If you've been pouring time and money into your website and still not seeing the traffic you deserve, chances are, you're making at least one of these 10 critical SEO errors.
Let’s break them down and help you fix them before Google buries your site.
1. Ignoring Keyword Research
You might think you know what your audience is searching for, but assuming is a dangerous game. Without proper keyword research, you could be targeting terms no one’s actually searching or, worse, ones that are too competitive.
We use different tools to identify realistic, high-intent keywords.
2. Keyword Stuffing
Once upon a time, loading a page with keywords worked. Not anymore. Google now penalizes sites that overuse keywords unnaturally.
We focus on writing naturally. Sprinkle your keywords where they make sense, and don’t force them.
3. Thin or Duplicate Content
Low-quality or duplicated content from other sites (or even your own) can destroy your authority. Google wants to rank unique, valuable content.
We create content that answers real questions, solves problems, and adds value. Be original.
4. Ignoring Mobile Optimization
Over 60% of searches happen on mobile devices. If your site isn’t mobile-friendly, you’re not just losing users—you’re losing rankings.
Use responsive design. Test your site on different screen sizes and optimize load times for mobile.
5. Slow Site Speed
Nobody likes a slow website, not users, not Google. Even a 1-second delay can hurt conversions and SEO.
Compress images, use caching, and minimise unnecessary scripts. Tools like Google Page Speed Insights can help.
6. Poor Internal Linking
If your pages are orphaned (not linked to from other pages), Google might not even find them.
Use smart internal linking to guide visitors and search engines through your content naturally.
7. Broken Links
Dead links frustrate users and signal neglect to search engines.
P4propleads run regular audits using tools to find and fix broken links.
8. Not Optimising Meta Tags
Your title tags and meta descriptions are prime SEO real estate. If they’re generic, missing, or duplicated, you're missing out on clicks.
We write compelling, keyword-rich titles and meta descriptions that encourage people to click.
9. No Structured Data (Schema Markup)
Want to stand out in search with rich snippets? Schema helps Google understand your content better.
Use schema markup to enhance your listings with reviews, FAQs, and more.
10. Not Tracking or Analyzing Results
SEO isn't "set it and forget it." Without data, you're flying blind.
Use Google Analytics, Search Console, and other tools to track traffic, rankings, and behaviour. Then adjust.
Final Thoughts
SEO is a long game, but making the right moves today can mean massive results down the road. Avoid these mistakes and you’ll be well on your way to higher traffic, better leads, and real growth.
🚀 Ready to Boost Your Rankings?
At P4ProPleads, we specialise in SEO that actually works. No guesswork. No fluff. Just results.
👉 Let’s audit your site for free and show you exactly what’s holding your rankings back.
📞 Click here to book your free consultation
🌐 Or visit: www.p4propleads.online