Understand your customers and think from their point of view

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By now we all know the role of keywords in finding the information we are looking for desperately. We know what word or phrase to type in search engine to get the answer in search results. While creating a website we should consider specific keyword and keep in mind the need of customer and their thinking while searching for certain item or information online. This article informs about How to Improve Keyword Research and Compete for New Keywords?

What are Keywords?
Specific words or phrases or group of words used to quickly search certain items online are called keywords. We know what to type to get the answer for online “best leather jacket” shopping, we type the phrase, however long it is to explain to search engine, what we are looking for and expect a result within seconds.

While making a website to sell an item we create information around it so that that particular item is searched immediately by customers looking for it. This information is important to increase the visibility of that item.

We need to perform the keyword research, keeping this in mind what customer could type, to reach, to that item online. This requires specific keyword research is important to create and maintain effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and content marketing techniques.

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How to Enhance Keyword Research?
Improving keyword research is crucial for effective SEO, content marketing, and online visibility.

Here are some steps to enhance keyword research:

Understanding Audience

Start by defining target audience. Who are they, what are their interests, pain points, problems, and preferences? Build detailed buyer personas to gain a deeper understanding of audience needs.

Brainstorm Seed Keywords

Begin with a list of general keywords related to business niche. These are known as seed keywords.

Competitor Analysis

Analyze your competitor’s websites and content. Identify the keywords they are ranking for and then put forth your research with conviction.

Use Keyword Research Tools

Utilize keyword research tools like:

• Google Keyword Planner,
• SEMrush,
• Ahrefs,
• Moz Keyword Explorer,
• Ubersuggest to expand your keyword list.
• Long-Tail Keywords

Focus on long-tail keywords, which are more specific and have less competition. These keywords often convert better.

Keyword Intent

Categorize keywords based on intent (for example: informational, navigational, transactional). This helps tailor content to user needs.

Search Volume and Competition

Assess search volume and competition for each keyword. Aim for a balance between search volume and competition.

Keyword Trends

Stay updated with keyword trends and seasonality. Tools like Google Trends can be helpful.

Local SEO

If it is a local business, use local keywords and include location-specific terms. City name and location in content will help.

Content Gap Analysis

Identify topics and keywords that competitors have covered but you are lacking.

User Questions

Incorporate keyword phrases in the form of questions. People often use search engines to find answers.

Semantic SEO

Consider semantic keywords and related terms. Google’s algorithm now emphasizes context and user intent.

Keyword Mapping

Organize keywords into groups or themes and map them to specific pages or content types on your website. Create a keyword planner beforehand, prior to content creation.

User-Generated Content

Monitor forums, reviews, and social media for keywords that your audience use when discussing your industry or products. This is important to understand what customer is exactly looking for.

Regularly Update and Expand

Keyword research is an ongoing process. Continuously update your keyword list to adapt to changing trends and audience needs.

Monitor and Analyze Results

After implementing keywords into your content, use analytics tools to monitor performance. Assess which keywords are driving traffic, conversions, and engagement.

Refine and Optimize

Based on performance data, refine your website content and SEO strategy. Remove or replace underperforming keywords time to time.

User Experience

Remember that user experience is essential. Make sure the content you create around your chosen keywords is valuable, well-structured, and engaging.

Avoid Keyword Stuffing

Do not overuse unnecessary keywords in your content. Use them naturally and ensure your content reads well.

Experiment and Test

Sometimes, it is worth experimenting with different keyword strategies to see what works best for your specific audience and niche.

Remember that effective keyword research is the foundation of a successful online presence. It helps to create content that resonates with audience and ranks well in search engines, driving organic traffic to your business website.

As published in Medium on Oct 18, 2023.