While Google's algorithm adjustments keep us on our toes, one thing has remained fairly consistent for inbound marketers working to optimize their websites for search: keyword research.
In this post, we'll discuss keyword research, why it's important, how to do research for your SEO strategy, and how to select the best terms for your website.
Whether you are an SEO company in Toronto or another part of the world, keyword research is the building block of your overall SEO strategy.
Why is keyword research important?
Keyword research is the process of finding and analyzing the terms that people enter into search engines when they are looking for information, products, or services.
By understanding what keywords are being used, you can tailor your website's content to match the needs and interests of your target audience.
How to do keyword research for SEO
There are a number of different ways to conduct keyword research. Here are a few methods you can use:
1. Use keyword research tools
There are a number of free and paid keyword research tools available online. Some popular options include Google AdWords Keyword Planner, Wordtracker, and Moz Keyword Explorer.
2. Analyse your website's search traffic
If you have a website, you can use Google Analytics to see which keywords are driving traffic to your site. To do this, go to the 'Acquisition' section of Google Analytics and click on 'Keywords'.
3. Look at your competitor's websites
One way to find out which keywords are being used by your competitors is to use a tool like Moz's Open Site Explorer. This tool allows you to see which keywords are being used to drive traffic to a competitor's website.
4. Use social media listening tools
Social media listening tools allow you to track and analyse the conversation happening around your brand on social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
How to select the best keywords for your website
Once you've generated a list of potential keywords, it's important to select the ones that are most relevant to your business. To do this, you'll need to consider a number of factors, including:
- The search intent of the keyword
- The searcher's location
- The competition for the keyword
- Your website's authority
The search intent of the keyword is one of the most important factors to consider. This refers to the reason someone is searching for a particular term.
For example, if someone is searching for the term 'buy link building packages', they are likely looking to make a purchase. However, if someone is searching for the term 'link building', they may be looking for a company for link building or simply trying to find more information about link building.
It's also important to consider the searcher's location. This refers to the country or region where the searcher is located. For example, if you are a local business, you'll want to target keywords that include your city or state.
The competition for a keyword is also an important factor to consider. This refers to the number of other businesses that are targeting the same keyword. If there is a lot of competition, it may be difficult to rank for the keyword.
Finally, you'll also want to consider your website's authority. This refers to how well-established your website is in the eyes of search engines.
If you have a new website, you may have to start with less competitive keywords and build your way up to more competitive terms.
By considering all of these factors, you can select the best keywords for your website.
At 1Solutions, we have an expert team of marketers to assist you with keyword research or SEO. Contact us today if you need a free consultation.