In the world of search engine optimisation (SEO), that first impression is often your title tag. Think of it as the headline of your webpage. It’s the snippet that searchers see first in search engine results, and it’s a critical factor in whether someone clicks through—or scrolls on by.
If you’re not seeing the results you want from your SEO efforts, your page titles might be the silent culprit. Let’s break down how to optimise your title tags using the best practices available, helping you improve visibility, boost click-through rates, and stay ahead of the competition.
What is a Title Tag and Why Does it Matter?
A title tag is an HTML element that specifies the title of a web page. It’s displayed in the browser tab and, more importantly, in search engine result pages (SERPs). Search engines use it to understand the context of your content. But it’s also what users rely on to decide if your page is worth their click.
Google has confirmed that title tags are a ranking factor. This means that crafting a good one is more than just cosmetic—it’s central to strong search engine optimisation.
The Best Page Title for SEO Is Clear and Compelling
When it comes to writing the best page title for SEO, clarity beats cleverness. You want your target audience to immediately understand what your page is about. That means including your primary keyword early in the title, keeping the language straightforward, and avoiding vague or clickbait-style phrasing.
Here’s an example:
Good: How to Optimise a Title Tag for SEO in 2025
Bad: This One Weird Trick Will Skyrocket Your Traffic!
The first example is direct, keyword-rich, and tells searchers exactly what they’re getting.
SEO Page Title Best Practices You Should Follow
Optimising a title tag for SEO is a blend of art and science. Here are a few proven SEO page title best practices:
Use Target Keywords Wisely
Place your most important keyword—like “search engine optimisation”—closer to the beginning of the title. This not only signals relevance to search engines but also catches the reader’s attention faster.
Keep It Under 60 Characters
Google typically displays only the first 50–60 characters of a title tag. If it’s too long, it might get cut off, which can affect both click-through rates and user trust.
Avoid Duplicate Titles
Every page on your website should have a unique title. Duplicate title tags can confuse search engines and dilute your ranking potential.
Incorporate Your Brand
When appropriate, include your business name at the end of the title. For example: “How to Optimise a Title Tag for SEO | Jarvis Technologies.”
Match User Intent
Think about what your audience is searching for and reflect that intent in your title. Are they looking for how-tos, reviews, comparisons, or definitions? Align your title with their expectations.
Real-World Example: What Competitors Are Doing
Their title “How to Optimise a Title Tag for SEO” hits the keyword mark, but there’s room for variation and enhancement. You can stand out by making your titles slightly more specific or targeting a long-tail variation that better matches your audience’s queries.
For example:
- “Title Tag SEO Tips: How to Write Headlines That Google Loves”
- “Beginner’s Guide to Title Tags for Search Engine Optimisation”
These alternatives retain the core keyword while offering a fresh twist.
Don’t Forget About Meta Descriptions
While not a direct ranking factor, your meta description works alongside your title tag to convince users to click. Keep it under 150 characters, make it action-driven, and reinforce your core message. Think of it as a mini pitch for your content.
Final Thoughts
Optimising your title tag might seem small, but it carries big weight in the world of search engine optimisation. It’s one of the quickest wins in SEO—something you can update today and see results in weeks.
At Jarvis Technologies, we help businesses across Australia build smarter, search-friendly websites. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your existing content, fine-tuning your title tags is a great place to begin.
Need help crafting SEO-ready content that actually performs? Get in touch with us and let’s take your rankings to the next level.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a title tag and why is it important for SEO?
A title tag is an HTML element that specifies the title of a web page. It appears in browser tabs and search engine results. It’s vital for SEO because it tells both users and search engines what your page is about, directly influencing your rankings and click-through rate (CTR).
How long should a title tag be for optimal SEO?
The ideal title tag length is 50–60 characters. This ensures your entire title displays properly in search results without being cut off. Keeping it within this range also makes your page look more professional and user-friendly on both desktop and mobile search engines.
Should I include keywords in my title tag?
Yes, definitely. Including relevant keywords—like “search engine optimisation in Perth”—at the beginning of your title tag helps search engines understand your content and improves your visibility in relevant search results. Just avoid keyword stuffing to keep it natural and readable.
Is it okay to have the same title tag on multiple pages?
No, each page should have a unique title tag. Duplicate titles confuse search engines, making it harder to differentiate between pages. Unique tags improve SEO by clearly defining what each page offers, increasing relevance and improving your site’s overall ranking potential.
Where should I place my brand name in the title tag?
Ideally, place your brand name at the end of the title tag, separated by a pipe (|). For example: “SEO Tips for Small Businesses | Jarvis Technologies.” This structure keeps your keyword focus up front while still building brand recognition in the search results.