People seem to be looking for a particular number or percentage that determines an optimal "keyword density" for web pages and blogs. They assume that there is a sweet spot, and if they hit it, traffic will pour in! Sadly, that's not the case. In fact, keyword density is a useless metric for quality content that targets web traffic and conversions. Today, I'd like to try to shed some light on some mistaken beliefs about keyword density. I’d also provide advice on developing a content marketing strategy that is both appealing for search engines and your readers.
Keyword Density is not THAT Mighty!
No SEO specialist has been able to determine the precise keyword density of content necessary for maximizing organic traffic. That's not to say that keywords don't play a huge role; they do and will continue to for some time to come. Nonetheless, it's important to go beyond them. In light of that, it becomes clear that there are other things that are becoming increasingly significant.
What Matters Then?
I would argue that search engines are eventually placing less emphasis on keywords compared to the intent behind them. Search engines are clever, and they're going to show people what they really want, no matter what the exact keywords are. For example, stuffing your webpage with "family lawyer" does very little to tell the search engines about the subject of your page. Thus, it doesn't help your website align with the intent behind a search. Is the user seeking a family lawyer in a specific area? Are they trying to decide whether to become a family lawyer? Do they plan on getting divorced? Thus, the context of the terms you use in the matter is more important than their density as a target keyword.
Research Your Keyword
Your research on your target keywords needs to be done before you can start creating your content. Many content marketers, SEO specialists included, have a list of keywords they want to create around. But they fail to follow through with their foundational research or fit them into a unified content plan.
You should make certain the terms you are using are a good fit for your content, have a reasonable search volume. It should make sense for your website, market, or brand. Don't make the mistake of targeting a keyword just because competitors are doing so. You want to use your content as a landing page, to promote organic traffic, or for other purposes. If you're planning to use your content as a landing page in or promote the cultivation of your organic traffic, or for other purposes, develop a detailed strategy. Then, provide ample support for this plan with proof that you've thought carefully about it.
What About Word Count?
A common question regarding SEO-friendly content is "What's the ideal word count?" The query stems from the fact that people want to know how to budget their time. Unfortunately, the answer to this question is, "It depends." It depends on many variables. However, you can definitely follow some basics to get some idea about the length of your content.
∙ Purpose - I always analyze the primary objective of a post. Is it to educate folks on a certain subject? Is it to lure folks into purchasing an item? It helps to consider the purpose of the post and the way the content is currently composed. Readers are looking for different things or maybe at different steps in the buyer’s journey. A short and concise sales page may be all someone needs to convert. A post or web page may need more complexity.
∙ Competition - If your rival is outperforming you in terms of word count, length, and breadth of your content, rethink your strategy. Make sure your content is unique to your audience and doesn't duplicate what your competition has to offer.
∙ SEO – Avoid content that reads like a spam post. For this, you'll need to be mindful of all the related sections and be sure your content flows naturally. Attempting to cram a lot onto one page won't work. And it will not flow well, either.
Focus On Users
SEO developers and professional webmasters shouldn't make their content purely to improve their SEO sites. Instead focus on those who truly drive your business: the users. The primary objective for generating traffic is to drive conversion. This will only happen if you write your content with your target audience in mind.
Know Your Target Audience
Doing keyword research isn't just for creating headlines, content and topics. If your content has no relevant target audience, your campaign will not be a success. If you know who your audience is, you’ll also know:
- What are their needs?
- Things they will relate to
- Details about their online activities
- Problems they face and the kind of solution they are looking for.
If you know this, you’ll be able to better market your brand. This can lead to better conversion rates as well.
Try and Be Unique
You can play around and have fun with creating content but be consistent. This will help your brand stand apart from others. Moreover, your users will know what you are all about and what exactly you aim to achieve. Try to send a clear message through creative content.
Final Word
Search engine optimization is a crucial part of SEO content writing, but it shouldn’t be the be-all and end-all. Ultimately, your target keywords and their density must make sense to your audience. Now, if you still have doubts and need pro help, get in touch with We Love Digital Marketing. A top digital marketing agency in Kolkata, we are a one-stop solution for all your digital concerns. Call or visit to know more.
Visit our website for more information
Follow Us On
