When I start working with a new client, I almost always get them to change their blog template.

Why? Because packaging matters (and theirs often sucks).

When a reader makes a search and lands on your blog...in 0.00001 seconds they make a judgment:

To trust, or not to trust?

All they see: the page design.

As they continue to read, the template will either improve their navigation of your content or do very little to help.

Below, I’ll walk you through all the elements I request to be added to my client's blog design.

✅ 1/ Image

A big header image lets you grab attention from the off.

Reader my micro-guide for header images in this article.

✅ 2/ Authorship

This element improves credibility and trust. Google is always increasing its understanding of authorship and expertise, so declaring the author is becoming critical.

Example from Wikipedia

This is especially important when:

• You're an expert and want to show that off.
• You're building a personal brand or consulting business.
• You work in YMYL spaces—where expertise is more than critical.

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