So, you want to boost your website’s visibility but feel lost when people start throwing around terms like “SEO” and “keywords?” Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Figuring out the right keywords doesn’t have to be a headache. Here’s a simple guide to get you started, even if you’re an SEO newbie.
What are Keywords, Anyway?
Think of keywords as the terms people type into search engines (like Google) when they’re looking for something. If you sell handmade dog sweaters, keywords might be “handmade dog sweaters,” “small dog sweaters,” or “warm dog sweaters for winter.” The goal is to find keywords that match what your potential customers are searching for.
Step 1: Brainstorm Like a Customer
Put yourself in your customer’s shoes. What would they type into Google to find your product or service? Make a list of anything that comes to mind. Don’t worry about being perfect at this stage; just get your ideas down.
For example, if you run a local bakery specializing in vegan treats, your list might include:
- Vegan cupcakes
- Vegan cake near me
- Best vegan bakery [your city]
- Gluten-free vegan cookies
- Vegan birthday cake
Step 2: Use Free Keyword Research Tools
These tools help you discover even more keywords and see how popular they are. Here are a few user-friendly options:
- Google Keyword Planner: While it’s designed for Google Ads, you can still use it to find keyword ideas and see estimated search volumes. You’ll need a Google account to use it.
- Ubersuggest: This tool gives you keyword suggestions, shows you the competition, and even provides content ideas.
- AnswerThePublic: This tool is great for finding questions people are asking related to your keywords. This can help you create informative content that answers those questions.
How to use these tools: Simply type in a keyword from your brainstorm list (like “vegan cupcakes”) and the tool will generate a list of related keywords, along with data on search volume (how many people search for that term each month) and competition (how hard it is to rank for that term).
Step 3: Look at Your Competitors
What keywords are your competitors using? Check out their websites and see what terms they’re targeting. You can use tools like Ubersuggest or SEMrush to analyze your competitor’s keywords. This can give you ideas you might not have thought of on your own.
Step 4: Focus on Long-Tail Keywords
Long-tail keywords are longer, more specific phrases that people search for. They usually have lower search volume but can be easier to rank for because there’s less competition. Plus, they often attract more qualified traffic because people searching for something specific are closer to making a purchase.
Example: Instead of just “cake,” a long-tail keyword would be “gluten-free chocolate cake delivery Chicago.”
Step 5: Consider Search Intent
Think about what people are *really* looking for when they type in a keyword. Are they looking to buy something, find information, or compare options? This is called “search intent.” Create content that matches the search intent of your target keywords.
Example: Someone searching for “best vegan protein powder” is likely looking to compare different products and read reviews. A blog post comparing different brands would be a great way to target that keyword.
Step 6: Track Your Results
Once you’ve started using your keywords, track your website’s performance to see what’s working and what’s not. Google Analytics is a free tool that can show you how much traffic you’re getting, which keywords are driving traffic, and how people are interacting with your site.
Don’t Overdo It!
Stuffing your website with keywords (keyword stuffing) is a big no-no. Google will penalize you for it. Instead, focus on creating high-quality, informative content that naturally incorporates your target keywords.
In Conclusion
Finding the right keywords doesn’t have to be intimidating. By brainstorming, using free tools, analyzing your competition, and focusing on long-tail keywords, you can start boosting your website’s visibility and attracting more customers. Keep experimenting and tracking your results, and you’ll be well on your way to SEO success!