Ranking among the top in search results is the dream of all the website holders. But nothing happens overnight, and SEO ranking needs efforts as well. The first step for a good SEO and to get a higher ranking is keyword research.
Keyword research is the process of searching for search terms and phrases that people enter into search engines when looking for something. Keywords research can make or break your SEO rankings, which is why this process should be implemented carefully.
If you are unsure where and how to start the process, here are five steps for effective keyword research.
- Define
Define the keyword topic that you want to research on and do it one keyword at a time. Be clear on what the user intent is, and then try searching for terms. Try keeping away from topics that are too broad or too specific.
- Brainstorm
While brainstorming keywords, always focus on quantity or quality. When brainstorming, add synonyms, adjectives, and singular/plural words. Use Google’s tools to review the kind of keywords used in your landing page and then brainstorm some of your own. You can even research on your competitor to get an idea of the kind of keywords they are using.
- Filter
While filtering your keywords, now focus on quality over quantity. Aim for a minimum of six keywords and a maximum of 20, all of them serving the user intent all along. Moreover, focus on popular keywords that have higher search volume. Google tools can help you give information regarding popular keywords. Then, cut down the number of keywords and add in only the most significant ones.
- Inspect
Recheck the keyword search volume for each keyword in your filtered list and keep in only those with higher search volumes. Try all keywords on search engines, check their ranking position, and pay attention to those that rank higher. Based on their search volumes, label your keyword difficulty and grade them as ‘low’, ‘medium’ and ‘high’.
- Prioritize
Prioritize your keywords as primary, secondary and tertiary. Pick your most realistic and highest priority keyword as your primary one, something which already ranks for. Then, pick two secondary keywords that have a good balance of relevancy, volume, and difficulty levels. Last, select 2-20 tertiary keywords that are still relevant and offer value to your business.
Keyword research is more than just picking out random search terms. An effective approach for keyword researching will help you reach your business objectives efficiently.