The relationship between keywords and SEO has been unbreakable for years. However, recent Google algorithm updates have been designed to lean more towards content and context. Does that mean that keywords are no longer relevant? Keep on reading to find out.
Keywords will always be a Key Feature of SEO!
Without a doubt, Google algorithms are today ten times smarter than they were a couple of years ago. These algorithms can crawl through content and identify if it’s relevant to users. On the other hand, keywords have always been the go-to strategy for driving more traffic to websites.
Keywords are the terms users enter in browsers when searching for information. Here are reasons why keywords still matter for SEO in 2022.
• Keywords help users search for information on the internet
There is no other way users can find content without keywords. This is the main reason why keywords are still relevant. Search engines feature complex query systems which help direct a user’s keywords to relevant content. If you are a website trying to reach a certain audience, you must engage in keyword research and find out the common terms your potential clients may use.
• Keywords allow you to reach the right audience for your business
Not all users out there are your potential audience. To avoid attracting the wrong consumers that won’t convert into sellers, a brand must perform keyword analysis and visibility. The right set of keywords can be optimized to help you reach the ideal audience for your business. You can also look for content gaps and incorporate these keywords for better ranking.
• Keywords boost traffic
Back then, when Google algorithms weren’t very smart, keyword stuffing was the best way for you to rank on page one of search engine result pages. Today, however, keyword stuffing is negative SEO, and it can lower your rankings instead of improving them.
Keywords can help you boost traffic, but you need to follow a unique approach. This includes incorporating high-volume keywords (those that are most frequently used). Instead of ranking many keywords at once, you can focus on one. You have a better chance of succeeding with the latter.
Does That Mean We Should Continue Tracking Keywords?
Keywords are still an integral part of search engine optimization. They make your content visible, bring in more traffic, and boost conversions. Therefore, it is very important for you to track your keywords.
If your business uses many keywords mostly because you sell a wide range of products or services, you need to narrow down this list. Tracking many keywords isn’t easy, and neither is optimizing them. We recommend focusing on a few keywords directly related to your brand, product, or services to get more satisfying results. This can help you get to page one of the search pages.
How Do I Know Which Keywords are Right for My Brand?
Despite there being so many keyword research tools out there, finding the right keywords for your business is a little bit complicated than it seems. Before running to these tools, step back and analyze your brand from a customer’s perspective. When you think like a client, you will know the terms they are most likely to use when searching for content, products, or services. The other method that can help you pick the right keywords is identifying your target audience. Research can help you with this.
Using the right keywords can be beneficial, the content must also be of high quality. It wouldn’t make sense for you to get lots of traffic and fewer conversions. Therefore, as you work on keywords, improve your content as well.
Are There Instances When Keywords are Useless?
The best SEO advice we can give you is that keywords can make or break your marketing efforts. In 2022, keyword stuffing won’t have any impact on SEO. If your content has a keyword density of more than 5%, it won’t make your site more visible. Another technique you shouldn’t carry with you in 2022 is the use of keyword meta tags. This won’t offer much value. While we are on SEO techniques that shouldn’t be dragged to 2022, forget about using exact match anchor texts for links.
The Bottom Line
As useful as keywords will be in 2022, it is important that you write for users and not search engines. This is a mistake many online entrepreneurs have made this year. This, however, doesn’t mean you should forget about keywords completely. It’s important to check ranking reports and stick to high-volume keywords.
Are you confused about how you should incorporate keywords in your Marketing Campaign? Alametrics is home to the best SEO strategists. We are familiar with how Google Algorithms work, and we can help you identify the best keywords for your business. Contact our SEO specialists today.