Choosing Keywords For Search Engine Optimisation
Keywords are a critical facet of search engine optimisation. A keyword is the word or phrase that we type into Google when we are searching for information, products, or services. With billions of searches conducted around the world every single day, it is obvious that search engine traffic is critical to a site’s success and choosing the most appropriate keywords, and subsequently using them in the most advantageous positions can be the difference between a successful site and one that bombs.
Web Page Keywords
Every page of a website should be assigned its own keywords. While some sites may use a single keyword per page, it is more reasonable to use a list of several keywords. Search engines not only look at the specific keyword you target but they also consider whether any inflections, stems, or related alternatives exist on the page so adding three or four related keywords on one page can really pay dividends.
Starting Your Keyword List
Guessing at search engine optimisation keywords is not advised but you will need some educated estimates to start with. Think of the main keywords related to your pages. If you were searching for the information you provide or the products you sell then what would you type into the search engines. Furthermore, what keywords do your main competitors use for their websites?
Further Keyword Research
Once you have a basic list of keywords you can begin doing more thorough keyword research. There is a plethora of keyword research tools available for SEO, some of them free and some commercial. Add your main keywords and then let the software deliver a list of more specific and less generic keywords. Typically, those visitors that are inclined to take action while on your website will arrive using two, three, or four word key phrases rather than single words.
Long Tail Keywords Vs Generic Keywords
While the long tail search phrases tend to generate fewer regular searches they are easier to rank highly for because fewer sites compete for them. In contrast, you may need to compete with tens of millions of websites for some of the most competitive and most generic keywords and phrases.
Keywords And Search Engine Optimisation
By narrowing your keyword list down and using those that relate to your business or your website you can ensure that you only try competing for those that will give you the greatest benefit. If you can combine some niche keywords with more competitive keywords on each page then you should be able to generate some short term traffic as well as provide a stable basis for long term search engine optimisation traffic and Website SEO.