Finding keywords for your website is like searching for the right ingredients for your favourite recipe – it takes a bit of thought and understanding to get it just right. Whether you’re new to the world of SEO or looking to refine your keyword strategy, here’s a casual guide on how to find those golden search terms that will help your website shine.

What are keywords?

Keywords are the words and phrases that people type into search engines like Google when they’re looking for something online. They’re like signposts that guide search engines to your website. Choosing the right search terms is important because they can determine whether your website appears at the top of search results or gets buried on page ten.

How do find them?

Step 1: Brainstorming

Start by thinking about what your customers might be searching for. Put yourself in their shoes. If you run a bakery in Sydney, potential search terms could be “Sydney bakery,” “fresh bread Sydney,” or “best cakes in Sydney.” Make a list of these words and phrases.

Step 2: Research tools

There are handy tools out there, like Google Keyword Planner, SEMrush, or even just Google itself, that can help you refine your list. These tools show you how many people are searching for specific search terms and suggest related terms you might not have thought of.

Step 3: Competition check

Take a peek at what your competitors are doing. Look at their websites and see what keywords they’re using. This can give you ideas for new search terms or help you see which ones might be too competitive to rank for.

Step 4: Long-tail keywords

Don’t forget about long-tail search terms – those are longer, more specific phrases that usually have less competition. For example, instead of “bakery,” try “gluten-free bakery Bondi Beach.”

Step 5: Refining your list

Now that you have a bunch of search terms, it’s time to narrow it down. Focus on keywords that are relevant to your business and have a decent search volume. You want keywords that people are actually typing into Google.

Step 6: Trial and error

SEO is not an exact science. It’s okay to experiment with different search terms and see what works best for your website. Over time, you’ll learn which search terms bring in the most traffic and which ones might need tweaking.

Step 7: Monitor and adjust

Once you’ve chosen your search terms and sprinkled them throughout your website, keep an eye on how they’re performing. Tools like Google Analytics can show you which keywords are driving traffic to your site and which ones might need a little more attention.

FAQs about finding keywords

1. How many keywords should I target?

It depends on the size of your website and your goals. Start with a handful of core search terms and expand from there.

2. Can I use the same search terms on every page?

It’s best to use a variety of keywords across your website to attract a broader audience.

3. How often should I update my search terms?

It depends. Keep an eye on trends and changes in your industry. Update your search terms as needed to stay relevant.

4. What if I can’t rank for my desired keywords?

Consider long-tail keywords or seek advice from an SEO expert like us, Boost My Business.

5. Should I use keywords in every sentence?

No, that can make your content sound unnatural. Use keywords naturally and focus on providing valuable information.

6. Can I find search terms without using tools?

While tools make it easier, you can start by brainstorming and using Google’s autocomplete feature to see what people are searching for.

7. How long does it take to see results from SEO efforts?

It varies, but typically, you’ll start to see changes in traffic and rankings within a few weeks to a few months.

8. What if my keywords aren’t bringing in traffic?

Review your strategy. Check if your search terms are relevant and if your content matches what users are looking for.

9. Should I hire an SEO expert to find keywords?

If you’re unsure or don’t have the time, hiring an SEO expert can save you time and guarantee your strategy is effective.

10. Can I use keywords in my social media posts?

Absolutely! Keywords can help your social media posts get discovered in search results too.

Finding the right search terms is a bit like detective work mixed with a pinch of creativity. With patience and the right tools – or help from experts like Boost My Business – you can boost your website’s visibility and attract more visitors who are looking for exactly what you offer. Happy keyword hunting!