5 Ways to Rank for Different Types of Keywords

Keyword rank is one of the biggest reasons businesses focus on search engine optimization (SEO). Ranking well for industry keywords and long-tail phrases helps get your site in front of prospective customers in relevant searches.

There are different types of search intent and keywords. Thus, ranking for specific keyword types requires a strategic approach.

Keyword research is only part of the SEO puzzle. Let’s take a closer look at how you can differentiate types of keywords and how you should approach trying to rank for each one.

If you’re ready to make your keyword research count, follow these five ways to get on the path towards higher rankings and audience engagement.

1. Answer Questions From Informational Keywords

Informational searches involve keywords with high search volume and vague search intent. Informational keywords typically ask Google “what” something is and requires further research into a subject.

Informational keywords can be broad and difficult, but not impossible, to rank for.

Long-form, detailed, and relevant content about a single topic can help you rank greater difficulty informational keywords. As long as your content answers as many questions as possible and they are questions people are asking, your pieces will build authority.

As you continue content creation and become an industry authority, your site will begin to sprout up on informational searches that lead potential customers to your doorstep.

2. Create Specific Content For Commercial Keywords

Commercial keywords dig a little deeper into the marketing funnel than informational keywords. At this point of intent, users have an idea of what they’re shopping for but want to know more about a product or service.

Keywords that include comparative references, reviews, or explore offers and discounts are all commercial keywords you should tailor specific content towards.

Content with commercial keyword intent typically delves into how a product or service works, what problem it solves for customers, and what makes it different from related products in your industry.

Any content you create for commercial keywords should be long-form, detailed, and not afraid to give audiences a behind-the-scenes look at your product. An honest piece of commercial content builds trust between an audience and your brand and could help lead potential buyers down to the next level of the marketing funnel.

3. Take Advantage of  Short-Term Fresh Keywords

Your keyword research is bound to uncover results that are only trending for a limited time. Temporary industry trends include holiday sales, sporting events, and movie releases. 

Creating content for fresh keywords is like wielding a double-edged sword. The right content at the right time will attract new visitors to your site, increasing your long-term authority. Unfortunately, the trend will end, and the great rankings will taper off as new industry fresh terms arise.

One way to make this content count is to focus on secondary keywords that you know are evergreen or will last longer than a fresh keyword. Linking your new article to established pieces keeps old content in the running while giving your new content the credibility it needs to thrive during the current hype.

4. Target Transactional Keywords With Paid Ads

Searches like “burgers near me” or “toilet repair in Fort Worth” use transactional keywords that indicate a buyer’s mind is already made up. 

Buyer keywords are often so specific that you’ll want to know you’ve hit your target.

While it’s still helpful to optimize general content for these keywords, paid advertising campaigns can help you ensure you reach your target audience. 

Aside from programming your ads to reach a target audience searching for your keyword, paid advertising can help you quickly execute sales, build your brand’s authority, and keep your brand at the top of relevant search results.

5. Update Pieces to Keep Evergreen Keywords Fresh

Evergreen keywords are terms that have a moderate search volume, high conversions, and specific search intent. Evergreen keywords generally don’t go out of style. Once you have content that ranks well for an evergreen keyword, you want to ensure it stays on top.

Examples of evergreen topics are “how to lose weight,” “the best way to prepare a steak,” and “benefits of getting dental implants.”

Reviewing evergreen content every couple of years lets you make essential updates that keep your topic attractive to new readers. 

Some helpful evergreen updates are:

• Updating links with a more relevant profile
• Add new, more relevant images
• Slight keyword tweaks
• Format refreshes (the same message with a different delivery keeps your content relevant and creates something “new” for search engines)

Meet Your Audience’s Search Intent Today, With Dallas SEO Dogs

Aligning with search intent and ranking for relevant keywords can be a full-time job for a business owner eager to break through SEO barriers. The digital marketing team at Dallas SEO Dogs has the experience to help you achieve SEO success without sacrificing your daily business obligations.

From original content creation to monthly reviews of analytics and positioning, we can help you build your online presence in your industry. Reach out to us today to schedule your free consultation with a team member.