At Moore Than SEO, the driving force behind our recommended strategies is always based on the direction the data and analytics provide. I often begin every SEO project by starting at its most basic building blocks: the targeted keyword phrases. This is because the research I do to examine top ranking competitor websites is extensive and I often brainstorm nearly 200 keyword phrase possibilities before I’m done with the first wave. Then I scrutinize and evaluate based on the search volume detected and overall competitive saturation. So, how can you improve your SEO keyword game? Read on for our expert tips for creating a powerful target SEO keyword list!
Tip One: Start by evaluating the top-ranking competition.
Spend time reviewing the top-ranking competitor websites. See how they organize their information, how much content they provide overall, how fresh their content is, and if they are incorporating more advanced integrations like social media streams, CRM integrations, etc. Take notes as you do this and provide your evaluations on content, design, mobile friendliness, and overall social media presence (click through any social follow links and make note of their existing social media following – and which platforms they’re active on). Next, go back to the competitor website’s home page & right-click then choose “View Page Source.” This will open a new tab displaying the actual code behind the scenes.
Read the areas showing <title> and <meta name=”description” content to see how much the competitor has optimized. Add any notable keyword phrases to your brainstorm list. For example, in the screenshot above, I would likely add “Atlanta Fundraiser Planners” “Atlanta Fundraiser Venue” “elegant fundraising event” “fundraising event planning” and “fundraising gala” to my list. Go through this process for at least the top three ranking competitors to your business.
Tip Two: Actively Use Google Search & “Related Suggestions” To Dig Even Deeper
Try searching for some of the keyword phrases you’ve brainstormed. You’ll see that some result in autosuggestions by Google as well as a “Searches related to X” listing at the bottom of the page.
In our example, I entered “fundraiser planners” into Google to see what other suggestions might appear. At the bottom of the first page of search results, I’m able to located some great ideas to add to my brainstorming list. For example, here, we might consider adding, “fundraising event planning template” “non profit event planning companies” “fundraising event planner” “how to organize a fundraising event” and other great longtail keyword phrases. Keep mining to find more great ideas.
Tip Three: Verify Your Choices with Google Data
Today, there are many resources to understand the actual local or global search volume of a targeted keyword phrase. Before you decide on which keywords to include and prioritize on your list, be sure you check the Google AdWords data to ensure it supports your hunches. Also, check the relevancy of any phrases to understand if they show results that make sense for your line of business. You’ll want to choose the most relevant keyword phrases with the highest search volume and lowest competitive saturation. Build your list and reevaluate it every other month.
Looking for more in-depth help for increasing your brand’s digital awareness? Moore Than SEO is a Top DesignRush Search Engine Optimization Company. Reach out to us for a free assessment and learn more about how we can help elevate your digital marketing efforts. Call us at (559) 978-4096.
