Keywords have been placed, optimized, stuffed and more. They are the lifeblood of any quality search engine optimization (SEO) campaign.  However, when not used properly, then can also be detrimental to a website’s success and the amount of traffic and sales seen.

Constantly creating internet content without considering SEO and keywords will likely result in you ranking for something, but perhaps not what you were thinking. It is never a good idea to shortchange your SEO strategy.

The ‘Real Talk’ of SEO

One of the first things you need to realize when creating a SEO strategy is that not every piece of content that is SEO optimized is going to reach number one, or even the first page, in Google search engine results. This is especially true if you are targeting a word or phrase that is used 15,000 times a month. However, with a bit more effort, you can get more from SEO.

If you are ready to optimize your keyword strategy and get the most of what SEO has to offer, there are certain steps that can help along the way.

Put Your Keyword Research Resources to Good Use

It is very common for you to go running to Google for ideas in regard of the best keywords to use; however, there are a number of other tools that can be used for additional insight. It may also be a good idea to utilize sites such as Social Mention to see what real customers and users are looking for.

Remember, these sources provide you with a good starting point, but you need to consider the volume of searches a term receives prior to targeting it. Competitive keywords are going to be difficult to rank for – especially for small businesses that likely don’t have the marketing spend larger companies do.

Consider the Keyword Relevance 

It is a complete waste of time to try and target keywords that don’t match what your business has to offer. If you don’t choose words that directly relate to what you offer, then even if you do rank for the targeted keyword, you will receive a high bounce rate because the customers will not find what they are looking for.

Consider some ‘Alternates’ 

The English language is quite complex. Just because you are searching for a ‘swing set’ your customers may be searching for ‘swingsets.’ While this can seem like the same thing, if the searcher does not input your exact targeted term, you may not get the desired ranking. Take some time to consider alternate ways someone may search for the word or item you are optimizing to ensure you get them hooked from every possible angle.

Use Geographic Targeting 

Keyword research, optimization and use can be confusing. There are millions of websites out there, which means there are very few terms left with absolutely no competition. One way to narrow the playing field a bit in your favor, is by localizing the term. This means you add your specific, geographic location to the keyword, such as ‘swing sets in Albuquerque,’ which will likely be much less competitive than simply ‘swing sets.’ This will also increase your local audience and sales.

Keyword targeting is often a science. To get it right you have to know what you are looking for and what you are doing. In many cases, small business owners will simply not be able to do this on their own. Our team at ServisTree can help you find the best keywords for your website to ensure you rank in search engines and receive social attention. Contact us today to learn more.