Keyword research involves discovering terms and phrases that customers use in search engines with the end goal of optimizing content around those keywords. Keyword research influences search engine optimization, including consumer outreach and on-site SEO.
Consequently, keyword research is typically the first step in any effective SEO campaign. Keyword research can reveal the thoughts and desires of your target audience by providing valuable insights into what potential customers are searching for. So, how can you use keyword research to make your site stand out?
Brainstorm Keyword Ideas
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Successful keyword research requires generating a list of keywords. If you’re not sure where to start, try brainstorming topics that your target audience is interested in by asking yourself what topics users search for that are related to your business. For example, if you’re brainstorming keyword ideas for a law firm, topics might include car accidents, personal injury, medical malpractice, and legal advice.
After brainstorming keyword topics, type each topic into Google, take note of what keywords Google suggests, and add these keywords to your list. For more keyword ideas, check the “Searches Related to“ section at the bottom of the search results page.
Use Google’s Keyword Tools
As the most credible source of keyword information, Google’s Keyword Planner can help you generate a list of keyword ideas and popular search queries. Unlike other online tools, Google’s Keyword Planner provides data straight from Google searches. Although the Keyword Planner is a free tool, business owners must create a Google Ads account to use the tool.
Additionally, you’ll need to make sure the keywords you’re planning to use are growing. The best way to ensure you’re choosing the right keywords is to use Google Trends. Google Trends reveals which search terms and topics are trending, making it easy for business owners to decide what keywords to optimize pages around.
Evaluate Keyword Difficulty
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If you choose a keyword that’s too competitive, you’ll have trouble improving your search engine ranking. However, if you find keywords without a ton of competition, you’ll probably be able to rank among the top three pages of Google search results.
For newer websites, long-tail keywords are typically less competitive. Long-tail keywords are long terms that include over four words, such as “affordable legal advice near me.“ Although long-tail keywords don’t individually generate a high volume of searches, using multiple long-tail keywords can help you soar in search engine rankings.
Use “Shoulder Keywords“
The majority of businesses only optimize their websites around keywords related to their products or services. However, depending on your industry, using keywords that potential consumers use to search for products can be extremely competitive.
Potential customers also search for thousands of keywords when they’re not searching for your products and services. And if you can present a piece of relevant, high-quality content to a potential customer, they’re more likely to purchase your products and services in the future.
Shoulder keywords aren’t directly related to your products or services. Instead, they’re keywords that potential customers search. For example, someone interested in booking a haircut might search for “haircut trends 2020,“ “how to get healthier hair,“ and “how to prevent split ends.“
Hire An SEO Professional
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If you don’t have enough time to devote to staying up-to-date with the latest SEO trends and changes in Google algorithms, hiring an SEO professional can help your business gain an edge over the competition.
If you’re interested in ranking organically for different keywords within your niche, organic SEO companies like LinkGraph can help. LinkGraph’s on-page SEO services include on-page content, section headers, title tags, and meta descriptions. With the help of a reputable SEO professional, you’ll be able to create engaging, meaningful, and informative content for your website, which can increase your chances of ranking high for relevant keywords.
All in all, identifying and targeting the right keywords can help your website rank higher, drive more organic traffic, and raise brand awareness.