As a search engine optimization copywriter, I’ve seen my share of keywords.
When working with me, clients choose their own keywords (or have someone
else choose them) and then send me the list to include in their copy. I must
admit, sometimes I’m just amazed at the selections I receive.
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It’s absolutely imperative that you make wise choices in the area of
keywords. Many people simply look at statistics. Others go strictly on the
most highly searched keywords from one particular search engine. Still
others do no research at all and just guess. While the first two can work in
combination with one another, they still don’t offer a complete solution.
From working with many search engine optimization (SEO) experts, I have
gathered a few tips on how to choose effective keywords that bring results.
I’d like to share that information with you so you can improve both your
copy and your search engine positioning.
Narrow Focus
Choose keywords that have a narrow focus. The most common “mistake” I’ve
seen when selecting keywords is choosing those that are too broad. For
example, one client sold cleaner for granite countertops. One keyphrase that
was originally under consideration was “granite countertops.” However, as
his SEO expert explained (and I agree), people could be hoping to find
information on almost any aspect of granite countertops… installation,
price, service, dealers, etc. This keyphrase was too broad and eventually
was discarded.
The same applies to geographic locations. A real estate agent wanted to
use the keyphrase “Richmond County.” However, upon searching the ‘Net for
this phrase, his SEO expert discovered that there are at least three states
that have a Richmond County. Instead, the SEO expert chose phrases such as
“Richmond County, Georgia real estate” to narrow the focus and ensure
qualified traffic.
Applicable to the Page
Another common area where people wane is in being determined to use
keyphrases that simply don’t apply to the page. In one case I was asked by a
client to use the keyphrase “payment portal” on a page that had nothing to
do with that topic. At the time, that was an excellent phrase to target, but
it would have been quite a stretch as it had little to do with what the site
was about.
Just because a keyphrase gives you the opportunity to be highly ranked
doesn’t mean you should use it if it has nothing to do with your site.
More Traffic or Better Traffic?
I see the battle between lots of traffic vs. more targeted traffic just
about every day. Clients are generally programmed by Web hype to believe you
need as much traffic as you can get regardless of where it comes from.
Most SEO experts I’m associated with (and this SEO copywriter) believe
you need traffic that will actually stick around once they reach your site.
Why have tons of people coming to your site if they will just leave after
three seconds because they didn’t find what they were looking for? It’s
better to have fewer people - more targeted prospects - who are more likely
to buy.
By targeting your keyphrases so they are as accurate and focused as
possible, you will gain the attention of customers who are specifically
searching for what you have to offer. While your unique visitor or page view
count may go down, your bank account balance will likely go up!
About the Author:
Which words make *your* customers buy? Let Karon show you. Boost your
sales and your search engine positioning by learning to write strategically
created copy that hits a nerve and makes the sale. Get the details now at http://www.copywritingcourse.com .
October 15, 2003
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