Step 1: Start with Broad Topics
Begin by listing broad topics related to your niche. These are the general terms that describe what your website or business is about. For example, if you’re in the eco-friendly products industry, start with keywords like “sustainable products” or “eco-friendly solutions.” Think of broad topics as the foundation for more specific, targeted keywords.
Step 2: Use Keyword Research Tools
Now, let’s get specific. Tools like Google Keyword Planner, Ahrefs, and Ubersuggest are essential for keyword research. Simply enter your broad keywords into these tools, and they’ll provide you with a list of related keywords.
You’ll see important details, like search volume (how often the term is searched) and keyword competitiveness (how difficult it may be to rank for that keyword). High-traffic, low-competition keywords are especially valuable for attracting an audience.
Step 3: Explore Competitor Keywords
Analyzing competitors is a smart way to identify valuable keywords you might have missed. It puts you at a better position to understand the competition levels and identify market gaps or loopholes.
Use tools like SEMrush or Ahrefs to check what keywords your competitors are ranking for. This can give you insights into popular keywords in your industry and uncover new opportunities for your content.
Step 4: Look for Long-tail Keywords
For niche topics, long-tail keywords are incredibly valuable. Long-tail keywords are longer phrases that are more specific, like “best AI tools for learning.” You can find these by using Google’s autocomplete feature or tools like Answer the Public, which reveal common questions and phrases people are searching for. These keywords may bring in less traffic but are often more targeted, attracting people who are closer to making a decision.
Step 5: Validate with Search Intent
Finally, make sure your keywords match user intent. Search intent is the reason behind a user’s query, such as seeking information or looking to buy. To validate search intent, look at the first page of Google results for your keyword. If the results align with the type of content you plan to create, then you’re on the right track. This ensures you’re not only attracting traffic but also meeting your audience’s expectations.
Completing keyword research now will set a strong foundation for the content you’ll create in the upcoming days, ensuring it’s optimized to attract and engage your ideal audience. Keep going, and stay tuned for the next steps in your SEO journey!
