What are Organic Keywords?
If you’ve been in the world of online marketing and website optimization for a while, you may have heard a pretty common joke: the best place to hide a dead body is on the second page of the search results. Pretty morbid joke but it's so accurate!
Research shows that the second page of the search results gets hardly any traffic. The lowest results on page one have a click-through rate of 2.5% or lower!
In other words, it’s pretty hard to overstate the power of a high ranking in the search results—which means you need to find the right organic keywords. After all, strategic keywords can mean the difference between high visibility and being hidden out of sight.
Wondering how you’ll find those optimal keywords? Our team at Your WP Guy has you covered! Let’s take a look at what organic keywords are, how to find them, and where to use them.
What Are Organic Keywords?
Organic keywords are a type of keyword that attracts traffic through a search engine anytime someone enters a query. In the search results, sites using organic keywords will show up below any other search items. Such as: paid ads, featured snippets, knowledge panels, or map interfaces.
In other words, organic searches let users click through to your website without pay-per-click (PPC) ads. All while boosting your visibility online.
On your website, organic keywords are what you use to tell search engines what a page is about. A search engine’s ranking algorithm will recognize these keywords when crawling your page. This may prompt it to show your page to interested searchers looking for those keywords.
This is why it’s important to use optimal keywords. They will connect you to your target audience seeking the very same solutions you provide!
Why Use Organic Keywords Over PPC Keywords?
First off, no one’s saying you shouldn’t use PPC keywords. In our intro to PPC, we pointed out a few huge advantages these ads have over traditional advertising, and we think they’re a key strategy for brands of any size when paired with SEO.
But organic search has several advantages to add to PPC. The most obvious? It is incredibly cost-effective! When someone clicks on an organic search result, you won’t pay a cent for the privilege. (Lets be honest here, you spent time and potentially money for the SEO setup, so it isn't truly free.)
Beyond that, SEO is a great way to target multiple stages of the buyer’s journey. PPC ads tend to be more effective for searchers looking to buy right away. Plus, the work you put in for organic search can offer long-term results, unlike PPC ads that vanish as soon as you stop paying.
Last—but not least—organic listings can help your brand build online trust and authority. High organic rankings signal to Google that you have valuable, high-quality content searchers want. Who doesn’t want to be valued?
In addition, many searchers are more willing to trust an organic result over an ad, and we've already mentioned the perks of snaring the top rankings of the search results for a given keyword.
How Do You Find Organic Keywords?
Finding the right keywords takes time, effort, and special tools. It also requires you to have a grasp of your target audience and where they are in the buyer’s journey.
Consider Your Target Audience
Think about who you want to reach, what they might be searching for, and how your offerings solve their problems. If you haven’t done so already, consider creating buyer personas to help with this. Think of it like playing The Sims only you can make money from it!
From there, decide where your target customers are in their buyer’s journey. A customer still researching possible solutions will search different keywords from someone who’s ready to buy.
Use the Right Keyword Tools
A few of Google's free tools can make organic keyword research much easier.
Google Analytics can help you figure out which keywords already drive traffic to your site. This lets you decide where to leverage existing keywords or tweak your keyword use.
Google Search Console allows you to see the average ranking position of keywords you’re considering. This can be a great way to check for a high monthly search volume before you use a keyword to optimize your site.
Google Keyword Planner is another free keyword tool that can help. Plus, it’s free to use as long as you have a Google Ads account. Use it to discover new keywords, track search volume, and more.
Note that many major sites, like SEMrush and Wordstream, offer free alternatives to this tool if you want to venture outside Google’s ecosystem.
Where Should You Use Organic Keywords?
When using your organic keywords on your target page, it’s important to use ideal placements for both readers and search engines.
Ideal places for organic keyword use include the following:
- Page titles, H1s, and subheadings
- Meta descriptions
- Image titles, file names, and alt text
- URLs
- Link anchor text
Obviously, you’ll also want to scatter your keywords throughout your content in natural places as well. The key term here is “natural”: the last thing you want is for searchers or Google’s crawlers to decide you’re resorting to spammy keyword stuffing, which can lower trust.
A good rule of thumb is to use a single primary keyword placed a few times throughout your copy. Usually no more than once for every hundred words. You’ll also want to use a few varied secondary keywords that you’ll scatter once for every two hundred words.
Any of this leaving you confused? Don't worry its a lot to take in, just take a breath and keep going, it will all click together.
Why Are Organic Keywords Important to Your Small Business?
Of course, small business owners are always looking for ways to increase their website traffic and attract more customers. By identifying and optimizing your website and content around organic keywords, you can improve your visibility in search engine rankings, attract more targeted traffic to your site, and ultimately drive more sales.
By strategically targeting the right organic keywords, you can direct the right customers to your site. By creating quality content that resonates with searchers' needs and interests, you can establish authority in your niche and build long-lasting relationships with your audience.
Get Help With Your Organic Keywords
Organic search can be a powerful tool in the right hands, and smart keyword usage tactics can even give small businesses a huge leg up over the competition.
Of course, optimizing for organic keywords may be “free,” but your time is money—which is why it’s smart to get help. If you’re a small brand, WP Guy can help you get more out of your keywords with less effort and stress. Our expert strategies can help you streamline your SEO campaign fast!
To learn more, request an appointment with us today.
What are Organic Keywords? Summary
• Search engines prioritize organic keywords when evaluating websites for ranking.
• Organic keywords are cost effective and drive traffic with no additional cost, as opposed to PPC ads.
• To find organic keywords, consider an audience's needs and use keyword-finding tools like Google Analytics, Keyword Planner, and SEMrush.
• Ideal places to include organic keywords include page titles, headings, URLs, meta descriptions, image titles & alt text.
• Hiring a digital marketing professional can help maximize results of organic keyword usage.
How do organic keywords differ from paid keywords?
Organic keywords are distinct from paid keywords in that they attract traffic to your website without the need for pay-per-click (PPC) ads. When users enter a query into a search engine, websites using organic keywords appear below paid ads and other search items. One significant advantage of organic keywords is their cost-effectiveness. Clicks on organic search results do not incur any additional cost, unlike PPC ads, where you pay for each click.
Moreover, organic search can effectively target various stages of the buyer's journey, making it a versatile strategy. While PPC ads may be more suitable for immediate buyers, the effort invested in optimizing for organic search can yield long-term results that persist even when you stop paying for ads.
Additionally, high organic rankings signal to search engines that your content is valuable, helping to build trust and authority for your brand. Many users also tend to trust organic results more than ads, further emphasizing the importance of securing top organic rankings for relevant keywords.
How can I find the right organic keywords for my website?
Finding the right organic keywords requires careful consideration, research, and the use of specialized tools. Firstly, it's essential to think about your target audience, their search behavior, and where they are in their buyer's journey. Creating buyer personas can be immensely helpful in understanding your audience's needs and preferences.
Next, you can leverage various tools provided by Google to aid in organic keyword research. Google Analytics is a valuable tool for identifying which keywords are already driving traffic to your website. This information can guide you in deciding whether to continue optimizing for those keywords or make adjustments. Google Search Console is another useful tool that allows you to view the average ranking positions of keywords you're interested in. This can help you identify keywords with high monthly search volumes that are worth targeting.
Google Keyword Planner is an additional tool, which is free to use with a Google Ads account. It enables you to discover new keywords, monitor search volume, and more. While Google provides these tools, there are also alternatives like SEMrush and Wordstream that offer free keyword research options.
Remember that successful organic keyword research involves a combination of understanding your audience, leveraging keyword tools, and keeping an eye on your website's performance in search results.
Where should I use organic keywords on my website for the best results?
To achieve the best results with organic keywords, it's crucial to use them strategically in various places on your website. These ideal placements include:
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Page titles, H1s, and subheadings: Incorporate your primary organic keyword into your page's title and headers. This not only helps search engines understand the topic of your page but also makes it clear to readers.
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Meta descriptions: Write informative and keyword-rich meta descriptions that summarize the content of your page. These descriptions appear in search results and can influence whether users click on your link.
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Image titles, file names, and alt text: When using images on your website, ensure that the image titles, file names, and alt text contain relevant keywords. This helps search engines understand the content of your images, improving the overall SEO of your page.
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URLs: If possible, incorporate your organic keyword into the URL of the page. A well-structured URL can enhance the user experience and improve SEO.
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Link anchor text: When creating internal and external links, use descriptive anchor text that includes keywords. This not only helps users understand where the link leads but also provides context to search engines.
While it's important to use organic keywords strategically, it's equally vital to maintain a natural and reader-friendly tone in your content. Avoid excessive keyword stuffing, as this can harm your rankings and user experience. A general guideline is to use your primary keyword a few times throughout your content, typically no more than once every hundred words.
Additionally, include a few varied secondary keywords dispersed once every two hundred words. This balanced approach ensures that your content is both search engine-friendly and engaging for your audience.
Why are organic keywords important for my small business?
Organic keywords play a pivotal role in the success of small businesses in the digital landscape. Here's why they are essential:
By identifying and optimizing your website around relevant organic keywords, you can significantly improve your visibility in search engine rankings. This increased visibility translates into more targeted traffic to your website.
Targeting the right organic keywords strategically allows you to attract the right customers to your site. This means that individuals who are genuinely interested in your products or services are more likely to find your website through organic search, increasing the likelihood of conversions.
Creating high-quality content that aligns with the interests and needs of searchers, based on your chosen organic keywords, positions your business as an authority in your niche. This not only builds trust with your audience but also helps establish long-lasting relationships.
Small businesses often operate with limited marketing budgets, and organic keywords can provide a cost-effective way to drive traffic. Unlike paid advertising, where you pay for each click, organic traffic doesn't come with additional costs once your SEO efforts are in place.
In summary, organic keywords are a powerful tool for small businesses to boost their online presence, attract the right audience, and build trust and authority in their industry. Leveraging organic keywords can be a game-changer for small business owners looking to grow their online presence and drive more sales.
How can I get help with optimizing my website for organic keywords?
Optimizing your website for organic keywords can be a complex and time-consuming process, and it's understandable if you feel overwhelmed. Fortunately, there are professionals and services available to assist you in maximizing the results of your organic keyword strategy.
Consider reaching out to digital marketing professionals or agencies that specialize in search engine optimization (SEO). These experts have the knowledge and experience to conduct thorough keyword research, optimize your website's content and structure, and implement best practices to improve your search engine rankings.
One valuable resource is Your WP Guy, a team that specializes in website optimization and SEO. They can help streamline your SEO campaign efficiently, ensuring that your website ranks well for relevant organic keywords. Their expertise can save you time and effort, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your business.
Remember that while optimizing for organic keywords may not incur direct costs like pay-per-click advertising, your time and expertise are valuable. Investing in professional assistance can lead to better results and a more effective SEO strategy.
Can I optimize my website for organic keywords by myself, or do I need professional help?
Whether you can optimize your website for organic keywords by yourself or need professional assistance depends on your expertise, resources, and the complexity of your SEO needs.
If you have a good understanding of SEO principles, keyword research, and content optimization, you can certainly begin optimizing your website for organic keywords on your own. There are numerous online resources, guides, and SEO tools available that can help you get started.
However, keep in mind that SEO can be a complex and evolving field. The process involves not only keyword research and content optimization but also technical aspects like website structure, backlink building, and continuous monitoring and adjustments. If you're short on time or lack in-depth SEO knowledge, seeking professional help can be a wise choice.
Digital marketing professionals and agencies, like Your WP Guy, specialize in SEO and can provide you with a comprehensive strategy tailored to your specific business goals. They have access to advanced tools and techniques, stay updated with the latest SEO trends, and can save you time and effort in the long run.
Ultimately, the decision between DIY SEO and professional assistance depends on your priorities, available resources, and how much you're willing to invest in optimizing your website for organic keywords.
How long does it typically take to see results from organic keyword optimization?
The time it takes to see results from organic keyword optimization can vary widely based on several factors:
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Competition: If you're targeting highly competitive keywords in a crowded industry, it may take longer to see significant results. On the other hand, targeting niche keywords with lower competition can yield quicker results.
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Website Authority: The authority and trustworthiness of your website play a role. Established websites with a strong online presence may see faster improvements in search rankings compared to new or less authoritative sites.
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Content Quality: The quality and relevance of your content matter. Well-written, informative, and engaging content is more likely to attract and retain visitors, which can lead to quicker improvements in rankings.
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Consistency: Consistency in your SEO efforts is essential. Regularly updating and optimizing your content, building high-quality backlinks, and monitoring your website's performance can expedite the process.
In general, it's common to start seeing some improvements in search rankings and organic traffic within a few months of implementing SEO strategies. However, achieving top rankings for competitive keywords may take six months to a year or even longer.
It's important to approach organic keyword optimization as a long-term strategy. SEO is an ongoing process that requires continual effort and adjustment. The patience and dedication you invest in optimizing your website can lead to sustained and valuable results over time.
Are there any risks or downsides to using organic keywords for SEO?
While organic keywords are a fundamental aspect of SEO and offer numerous benefits, it's essential to be aware of potential risks and downsides:
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Algorithm Changes: Search engines like Google frequently update their algorithms. These changes can impact your website's rankings, even if you've optimized it for organic keywords. Staying informed about algorithm updates and adapting your strategy accordingly is crucial.
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Competitive Landscape: Depending on your industry, you may face intense competition for certain keywords. Competitors can also optimize their content, making it challenging to maintain or improve your rankings.
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Time and Effort: SEO is a continuous process that demands time and effort. Creating high-quality content, building backlinks, and monitoring performance require ongoing attention. It's not a one-time effort but a long-term commitment.
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Keyword Saturation: Overusing keywords (keyword stuffing) in your content can result in penalties from search engines. It's important to strike a balance between optimization and providing valuable, user-friendly content.
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Dependency on Organic Traffic: Relying solely on organic traffic can be risky. Diversifying your traffic sources, such as through social media, email marketing, and paid advertising, can provide a safety net in case your organic rankings fluctuate.
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Negative SEO: In rare cases, competitors or malicious actors may attempt negative SEO tactics, such as building spammy backlinks to your site. Regularly monitoring your backlink profile can help mitigate this risk.
While these risks exist, they can be managed with a well-rounded SEO strategy and a focus on best practices. The benefits of using organic keywords, including cost-effectiveness, long-term results, and increased visibility, often outweigh the potential downsides.
How often should I update my website's organic keywords and SEO strategy?
The frequency of updating your website's organic keywords and SEO strategy depends on several factors, including your industry, competition, and the nature of your content. Here are some general guidelines:
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Regular Monitoring: Continuously monitor your website's performance in search engine rankings and organic traffic. Use tools like Google Analytics and Google Search Console to track keyword rankings and user behavior.
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Content Updates: Regularly review and update your content to ensure it remains relevant and valuable to your audience. Content freshness can positively impact your rankings.
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Algorithm Changes: Stay informed about search engine algorithm updates. Major updates may require immediate adjustments to your strategy, while minor updates may necessitate periodic reviews.
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Competitive Analysis: Keep an eye on your competitors and their SEO efforts. If they make significant changes or improvements, you may need to adapt to maintain or improve your rankings.
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Seasonal Adjustments: If your business experiences seasonal fluctuations, consider making seasonal adjustments to your keywords and content to capitalize on trends.
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Technical Maintenance: Regularly check for technical SEO issues on your website, such as broken links, slow loading times, or mobile-friendliness. These issues can impact your rankings and user experience.
In essence, SEO is an ongoing process that requires consistent attention. While there's no one-size-fits-all answer to how often you should update your SEO strategy, regular monitoring and periodic reviews are essential to ensure your website continues to perform well in search engine results.
Are there any tools or software that can help me track and optimize my organic keywords effectively?
Yes, there are several tools and software solutions available to help you track and optimize your organic keywords effectively. These tools can provide valuable insights and streamline your SEO efforts. Here are some popular options:
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Google Analytics: Google Analytics is a powerful and free tool that allows you to track website traffic, keyword performance, and user behavior. It provides valuable data on which keywords are driving traffic to your site and how users interact with your content.
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Google Search Console: Another free tool by Google, Search Console, provides insights into your website's presence in Google's search results. It offers information on keyword rankings, click-through rates, and technical issues that may affect your SEO.
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SEMrush: SEMrush is a comprehensive SEO tool that offers features for keyword research, competitive analysis, site auditing, and more. It can help you identify high-performing keywords and track your rankings over time.
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Ahrefs: Ahrefs is a popular SEO tool that provides insights into organic keyword rankings, backlinks, and competitor analysis. It's particularly useful for in-depth keyword research and monitoring your website's backlink profile.
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Moz Pro: Moz Pro offers a suite of SEO tools, including keyword research, site auditing, and rank tracking. It provides actionable insights to improve your organic search performance.
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Yoast SEO (WordPress Plugin): If you're using WordPress, the Yoast SEO plugin can help optimize your content for organic keywords. It provides real-time suggestions and analysis to improve on-page SEO.
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Serpstat: Serpstat is an all-in-one SEO platform that offers keyword research, rank tracking, site audit, and competitor analysis. It can assist you in identifying keyword opportunities and tracking your progress.
These tools offer a range of features and pricing options, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs and budget. Using such tools can make it easier to track your organic keyword performance, identify areas for improvement, and optimize your website for better search engine rankings.