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How can I select highly-competitive and relevant SEO keywords to improve my rankings?

Sep 20, 2017

SEO keywords or phrases that help users as well Google bots find your website among others. A quality optimization enables website owners to connect their potential customers to your site through search terms. To select a right set of keywords you need to know how users form their queries. You will get a constant flow of customers by making it easy for them to find your site.

Moreover, a right search engine optimization keywords will help you to rank above your competitors. That is why a correctly selected and well-optimized set of keywords is a MUST for any winning promotional campaign. Let us discuss how to research relevant SEO keywords to get to the TOP of search engines.

search engine optimization keywords

Why do you need search engine optimization keywords?

Correctly selected search phrases are a core of website success. Search engines collect data about sites based on keywords that are present in titles, descriptions, and content. Right keywords can improve your site ranking and attract new visitors from organic search. Search terms play a foundational role in all other SEO efforts such as content writing strategy and link building. Keyword research is worth your time and efforts as in future it attracts organic visitors and brings you a high conversion rate.

How to research best keywords for SEO?

Keyword research is the process of accurate selection of the search terms that are relevant to the website market niche. Webmasters and SEO specialists use different automated programs to determine which key phrases will serve best for site ranking and help to unleash the website potential. A process of keyword research requires a constant testing and improvement before you get the right outcome.

seo keywords

There are some tips you need to follow while conducting keyword research for your site:

Make up a list of relevant topics which primarily related to your market niche. I advise you to put yourself in the place of your potential customers and think over terms they may use to find your page. Do not target highly competitive keywords as you won’t achieve a success targeting by them. The best option is to choose less popular phrases which are most relevant to your content subject. By using them, you receive all changes to get to the TOP positions in SERP.
Come up with the final list of keywords you will rank for in the SERPs. To make the final list of search terms, you need to check which keywords are already used by your competitors. To do this research, you may use Google Analytics or Semalt Auto SEO tool. Here you may also check keywords search volume and relevance.
Find the related search terms that appear when you insert a selected keyword in Google search box. These words can give you an idea for other key phrases you may use to optimize your site.
Make sure you implement long-tailed keywords and head terms. It will give you more chances to foster competitiveness.
Benefit from using the Google AdWords Keyword Planner or Semalt Auto SEO to cut a list of obtained keywords. These tools will help you estimate your keywords search volume and traffic they can generate.
That's all! You now have a list of relevant keywords that will help you to generate a quality search traffic.

Adam Smith

Great article, Andrew! Identifying target keywords is crucial in SEO for better website rankings.

Emily Thompson

I couldn't agree more, Adam. Proper keyword research helps to optimize content and attract relevant traffic.

Michael Johnson

Absolutely, Emily! It's important to choose keywords that align with your target audience's search intent.

Sophia Davis

Thanks for the informative post, Andrew. How do you recommend identifying the most effective target keywords?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi Sophia! Glad you found the article helpful. To identify effective target keywords, start by analyzing your industry, competitors, and customer preferences. Also, consider using keyword research tools to discover popular and relevant keywords.

Robert Evans

I have a question, Andrew. Should I focus on short-tail or long-tail keywords for better SEO results?

Andrew Dyhan

Hey Robert! Short-tail keywords are more competitive, so it's wise to target long-tail keywords as they have less competition and are more specific to user queries. However, a mix of both can be beneficial.

Linda Anderson

Do you have any recommendations for free keyword research tools, Andrew?

Andrew Dyhan

Sure, Linda! There are several free options available, such as Google Keyword Planner, Ubersuggest, and AnswerThePublic. They can provide valuable insights into keyword search volume and related terms.

James Walker

Andrew, what's your take on using long-tail keywords for local SEO?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi James! Long-tail keywords can be particularly effective for local SEO as they help target specific geographic locations and capture local search intent. Consider including location-specific terms in your long-tail keywords for better results.

Amanda Roberts

Thanks for the insights, Andrew. How often should one update their target keywords?

Andrew Dyhan

You're welcome, Amanda. Keyword trends and market dynamics change over time, so it's advisable to regularly review and update your target keywords. Aim for at least once every few months to ensure your content remains relevant.

Daniel Clark

What's the significance of using keywords in meta tags, Andrew?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi Daniel. Meta tags, including title and description, provide concise information to search engines and users about the content on a webpage. Including relevant keywords in meta tags helps search engines understand the topic and relevance of the page.

Olivia Brown

Andrew, should I target keywords with high search volume or low competition?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi Olivia! It's best to strike a balance. Targeting keywords with high search volume indicates demand, but also high competition. On the other hand, low competition keyword can be easier to rank for but might have lower search volume. Look for keywords with a reasonable combination of both.

Emma Wilson

Andrew, can you provide some on-page optimization tips to improve keyword visibility?

Andrew Dyhan

Certainly, Emma! To improve keyword visibility, make sure to include target keywords in page titles, headings, URL structure, and throughout the content naturally. However, avoid overstuffing and maintain readability for a better user experience.

Richard Thomas

Great article, Andrew! SEO keywords play a vital role in driving organic traffic to websites, and your insights are valuable.

Grace Baker

Andrew, could you explain the concept of keyword cannibalization in SEO?

Andrew Dyhan

Certainly, Grace! Keyword cannibalization occurs when multiple pages on a website compete for the same target keywords. This can dilute the page's authority and confuse search engines about which page to rank. It's important to consolidate and optimize content to avoid cannibalization.

Sophia Davis

Thank you for answering, Andrew. Your explanation is clear and helpful!

John Turner

Andrew, what are your thoughts on using LSI keywords in content?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi John! LSI (Latent Semantic Indexing) keywords are related terms to the main target keyword. Using LSI keywords in content helps search engines understand the context and relevancy of the topic. It's a good practice to include them naturally to enhance the overall SEO.

Sophie Turner

Andrew, could you recommend some advanced SEO keyword research tools?

Andrew Dyhan

Sure, Sophie! Some advanced SEO keyword research tools include Ahrefs, SEMrush, Moz, and Serpstat. These tools provide comprehensive data and insights for in-depth keyword analysis.

William Green

Hi Andrew, how important is it to track keyword rankings regularly?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi William! Regular tracking of keyword rankings helps you gauge the effectiveness of your SEO efforts. It allows you to identify improvements, measure your progress, and ensure that your website is visible in search engine result pages (SERPs).

Jennifer White

Andrew, do you have any tips for optimizing keywords in image alt tags?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi Jennifer! When optimizing image alt tags, try to include descriptive keywords that accurately represent the image content. However, make sure to maintain relevancy and avoid keyword stuffing. Alt tags contribute to accessibility and image SEO optimization.

Charles Lee

Andrew, can you shed some light on the impact of voice search on keyword targeting?

Andrew Dyhan

Certainly, Charles! Voice search has gained popularity, and people tend to use more conversational queries. Including long-tail and natural language keywords in your targeting strategy can help capture voice search traffic. Voice search optimization is becoming increasingly important.

Daniel Miller

Thanks for the article, Andrew. How can I optimize keywords in blog post URLs?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi Daniel! To optimize keywords in blog post URLs, use relevant and descriptive slugs. Include target keywords naturally and keep the URL structure concise and readable. It helps search engines and users understand the topic of the blog post.

Lucy Turner

Andrew, can you advise on handling keyword cannibalization if it has already occurred?

Andrew Dyhan

Certainly, Lucy! If keyword cannibalization has occurred, it's important to identify the pages competing for the same keywords. Analyze their performance, update the content to differentiate their purpose, and implement 301 redirects if needed. Proper internal linking and optimization can help resolve cannibalization issues.

Alex Thompson

Andrew, how should I deal with keyword stuffing penalties?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi Alex! If you've received a keyword stuffing penalty, the first step is to identify and remove excessive keyword usage. Rewrite the content to maintain natural language and readability. Update meta tags if necessary, and submit a reconsideration request to search engines once the issue is resolved.

Oliver Clark

Andrew, what are your thoughts on incorporating keywords in anchor text?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi Oliver! Using keywords in anchor text can help search engines understand the topic and relevance of the linked page. However, be cautious and avoid over-optimization. Use descriptive and natural anchor text to provide a seamless user experience.

Emma Taylor

Andrew, should I prioritize keyword volume or user intent while selecting target keywords?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi Emma! While keyword volume indicates demand, prioritizing user intent is crucial. Understanding what users are looking for and aligning your content with their needs is essential for better engagement and conversions. Focus on keywords that match both volume and user intent for optimal results.

Sophia Davis

Andrew, do you have any tips for optimizing keywords in blog post headings?

Andrew Dyhan

Certainly, Sophia! When optimizing keywords in blog post headings, use H1 tags for the main heading and include target keywords where it feels natural. Use related keywords in subheadings (H2, H3) to structure your content. However, remember to prioritize readability and make sure headings accurately reflect the content.

James Williams

Hi Andrew, how important is it to consider seasonal and trending keywords for SEO?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi James! Considering seasonal and trending keywords is important as it allows you to capitalize on current events, holidays, or industry-specific trends. Optimizing content for these keywords can lead to increased visibility and traffic during specific periods.

Emily Johnson

Andrew, can you please explain the concept of keyword research for local SEO?

Andrew Dyhan

Certainly, Emily! Keyword research for local SEO involves targeting location-specific keywords that align with your business and target audience. Consider adding localized terms, such as city or region names, to your keywords. It helps you rank higher in local search results, especially for location-based queries.

David Wilson

Andrew, how can I optimize keywords in the meta description?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi David! To optimize keywords in the meta description, include relevant keywords that accurately summarize the webpage's content. However, prioritize readability and focus on creating compelling and concise descriptions that entice users to click.

Lucy Johnson

Andrew, should I focus more on optimizing keywords for mobile or desktop users?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi Lucy! With the increasing dominance of mobile usage, it's crucial to optimize keywords for mobile users. However, don't ignore desktop optimization entirely. Aim for a responsive design and ensure a seamless experience across both platforms.

Sophia Anderson

Thank you for the informative article, Andrew. I found it really helpful in understanding keyword targeting for better SEO.

Jack Thompson

Andrew, what are your thoughts on using synonyms and variations of keywords in content?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi Jack! Using synonyms and variations of keywords in content is beneficial as it helps broaden the relevance of your content. It can capture a wider range of user queries and enhance organic visibility. Just ensure that the usage is natural and doesn't compromise readability.

Sophie Taylor

Andrew, what should I do if my target keywords aren't driving desired organic traffic?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi Sophie! If your target keywords aren't driving desired organic traffic, it's important to reassess your keyword strategy. Analyze keyword difficulty, search volumes, and user intent. Consider exploring new long-tail keywords, optimizing existing content, or evaluating other factors like page speed, user experience, and backlink profile.

Daniel Davis

Andrew, how can I check if my website is ranking for the target keywords?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi Daniel! You can use various SEO tools like SEMrush, Ahrefs, or Google Search Console to track keyword rankings. Simply enter your website URL and the target keywords to monitor their rankings and organic visibility over time.

Emma Brown

Andrew, what are your thoughts on using keyword research for optimizing YouTube videos?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi Emma! Keyword research plays a crucial role in optimizing YouTube videos. Use tools like Google Trends, YouTube Search Autocomplete, or third-party tools to discover relevant keywords. Include these keywords in video titles, descriptions, tags, and transcripts. It helps improve visibility and reach on the platform.

Jacob Taylor

Andrew, what are the possible consequences of using irrelevant or unrelated keywords?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi Jacob! Using irrelevant or unrelated keywords can have negative consequences. It can damage your website's credibility, lead to high bounce rates, and negatively impact user experience. Search engines may penalize your website, resulting in lower rankings and decreased organic visibility.

Sarah Roberts

Andrew, when should I optimize existing content for better keyword targeting?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi Sarah! It's a good idea to optimize existing content when you notice a decline in rankings, change in search trends, or want to target different keywords. Regularly auditing your website, keeping an eye on competitors, and identifying areas for improvement can help you determine when to optimize existing content.

Matthew Smith

Andrew, what strategies can be used to optimize keywords in social media posts?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi Matthew! To optimize keywords in social media posts, conduct keyword research relevant to your niche and target audience. Incorporate those keywords in your post captions, hashtags, and meta descriptions. However, ensure that the content remains engaging, natural, and suited for social media platforms.

Sophie Miller

Andrew, what are your thoughts on using external links to boost keyword visibility?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi Sophie! Using external links, when relevant and authoritative, can enhance keyword visibility. They provide signals of credibility and further information to search engines. However, be selective in choosing quality external sources that complement your content and enhance the overall user experience.

Mia Hall

Andrew, how can I identify the most relevant keywords for my specific industry?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi Mia! To identify relevant keywords for your industry, start by researching your competitors, industry-specific forums, and social media discussions. Analyze relevant search queries, check related topics and keywords using tools like Google Keyword Planner or Google Trends. It helps you understand the language and preferences of your target audience.

David Davis

Andrew, should I focus more on organic keywords or paid keywords?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi David! Organic and paid keywords serve different purposes. Organic keywords drive unpaid (organic) traffic to your website, while paid keywords target specific audiences through paid advertising campaigns. Develop a holistic strategy that combines both efforts for maximum visibility and reach.

Olivia Turner

Andrew, do you have any tips for writing SEO-friendly blog content around target keywords?

Andrew Dyhan

Certainly, Olivia! When writing SEO-friendly blog content, start by conducting keyword research to identify relevant keywords. Incorporate these keywords naturally throughout the content, including headings, subheadings, and body text. Optimize meta tags, use internal linking, and create high-quality, useful content that matches user intent.

Grace Johnson

Thank you, Andrew, for sharing your valuable insights on SEO keyword targeting.

Ethan Clark

Andrew, what are your thoughts on using brand names as target keywords?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi Ethan! Using brand names as target keywords is beneficial, especially for brand visibility and reputation management. However, consider the competition and user intent behind such searches. Optimize your website and content for branded search queries to enhance your online presence.

Sophie Williams

Andrew, is it advisable to include keywords in the anchor text of internal links?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi Sophie! Including keywords in the anchor text of internal links can boost keyword visibility for the linked page. It helps search engines understand the context and relevance of the destination page. However, ensure that the anchor text is descriptive and relevant to provide a seamless user experience.

Joseph Smith

Andrew, how can I optimize keywords in product descriptions on an e-commerce website?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi Joseph! To optimize keywords in e-commerce product descriptions, start by researching relevant keywords for each product. Include target keywords naturally in the product title, description, bullet points, and image alt tags. Prioritize readability, compelling descriptions, and accurate representation of the product's benefits and features.

Lucas Turner

Andrew, what tactics should I use to optimize keywords in video titles?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi Lucas! To optimize keywords in video titles, place the target keyword near the beginning for better visibility. Keep the title concise, descriptive, and enticing for users. Use relevant terms, include numbers or power words, and consider incorporating additional keyword variations where appropriate.

Emma Johnson

Andrew, what are your thoughts on using geo-targeted keywords for local businesses?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi Emma! Using geo-targeted keywords is essential for local businesses. Incorporate location-specific terms, such as city or neighborhood names, to help users find your business in local search. Optimize your website content, meta tags, and landing pages with these keywords to improve local visibility and attract local customers.

Daniel Turner

Andrew, is it necessary to update old blog posts' keywords for ongoing SEO efforts?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi Daniel! Updating old blog posts' keywords can be beneficial for ongoing SEO efforts. It helps improve relevancy to current search trends and enhances organic visibility. Look for outdated or lower-performing keywords and optimize the content with new ones. Also, consider improving the overall quality and adding fresh information.

Lucy Roberts

Andrew, can you provide tips for finding low competition keywords with decent search volume?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi Lucy! To find low competition keywords with a decent search volume, use keyword research tools like SEMrush or Ahrefs. Look for keywords with moderate search volume and lower competition scores. Additionally, long-tail keywords often have lower competition and higher relevance to specific user needs.

Oliver Evans

Andrew, when optimizing keywords, should I focus on global or local search volume?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi Oliver! The focus on global or local search volume depends on your target audience and the geographic scope of your business. If your products/services have a broader reach, prioritize global search volume. However, for local businesses, consider the local search volume to capture relevant local traffic.

Sophie Davis

Andrew, how can I optimize keywords for better visibility in featured snippets?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi Sophie! To optimize keywords for better visibility in featured snippets, start by identifying commonly featured types like paragraphs, lists, or tables. Structure your content accordingly, providing concise and well-formatted answers. Use relevant headings, schema markup, and descriptive subheadings to improve the chances of appearing in featured snippets.

David Turner

Andrew, how many target keywords should I focus on for a single webpage?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi David! It's best to focus on a few primary target keywords per webpage to maintain keyword relevancy and avoid keyword stuffing. Optimize the page's content, meta tags, and headings around those target keywords. Ensure the content provides valuable information that meets user search intent.

Emily Green

Thank you for your insights, Andrew. Keyword targeting is indeed crucial for successful SEO.

Adam Roberts

Andrew, do you have any recommendations for tracking keyword rankings on mobile devices?

Andrew Dyhan

Hi Adam! To track keyword rankings on mobile devices, various SEO tools like SEMrush, Ahrefs, or AccuRanker provide mobile-specific rank tracking options. Make sure to select the appropriate preferences and track keywords specifically for mobile searches to gain valuable insights.

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There are some tips you need to follow while conducting keyword research for your site:

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