Introduction to Keyword Research & On-Page SEO

Simple Tactics for Effective Keyword Research

The easiest and most important tool for keyword research is the Google search bar. By typing in a specific keyword or phrase, the algorithm will suggest related terms or keywords that can help influence what topics need to be covered to rank organically.

1. Utilize Free Keyword Research Sites: Tools like Google Keyword Planner, Ahrefs, and SEMrush can help identify relevant keywords, search volume, and competition levels. Beginners should spend time exploring these tools to become familiar with how they collect information. For example, AHREFs has built an index over years of emulating Google’s crawling and indexing algorithm. By using different tools that can provide clarity or focus, an SEO Copywriter can easily discover valuable keywords for their niche.
2. Encourage Long-Tail Keywords: Long-tail keywords are specific phrases that typically have lower search volume but higher conversion rates. They warrant an entire course to go through the nuance and opportunity from keywords that have not yet gained popularity. These terms often reflect user intent more accurately, making them easier to rank for with the right content. For instance, instead of targeting the broad keyword “shoes,” a beginner might target “best running shoes for flat feet.” and support it with blog or comparison information in the content.
3. Peek at Competitors: Investigating competitors’ content can provide insights into effective keywords and topics within the niche. Utilizing SEO agencies like LionEater can help analyze competitors’ keyword strategies faster, while search marketing beginners are encouraged to experiment and refine a unique approach. Staying interested in the target topic is important when analyzing thousands of posts for content. Not everything published will rank, and that’s okay.

Simple Approach to Crafting Engaging Content

Balancing Between SEO and Readability

One of the most significant challenges for beginners is reaching a balance between optimizing content for search engines and making it engaging for readers. When writers are too focused on the keywords in their content, they risk making poor editorial decisions or overdoing the optimization efforts. Over-optimization can look like keyword stuffing, or unnatural language combinations resulting in content that is difficult to read. Algorithms may temporarily rank over-optimized content but after time it will be corrected. This usually indicates that the content had too much SEO and became unappealing to users.

Strategies for Crafting Engaging Content

1. Write for the Audience First: Prioritize creating content that addresses the needs and interests of the target audience. Beginners should focus on providing valuable information, insights, and solutions to problems, rather than solely targeting keywords.
2. Use Clear and Concise Language: Clarity is essential in copywriting. Beginners should aim for simplicity and avoid jargon unless necessary. Breaking up content with headings, bullet points, and short paragraphs can enhance readability.
3. Incorporate Storytelling: Engaging storytelling can captivate readers and keep them interested. Beginners can use anecdotes, case studies, or personal experiences to make their content relatable and memorable.

Simplifying On-Page SEO Optimization

Understanding On-Page SEO Elements

The term “On-Page SEO” refers to all of the elements required to identify the web page, including the metadata used to identify and categorize content by search engines. On-page SEO involves optimizing these various elements (paragraph headers, document titles) to ensure that a webpage includes keywords to improve its ranking potential. Beginners often struggle to grasp the intricacies of on-page SEO, either missing something or adding too much, which can undermine good copywriting efforts.

A simple principle for writing effective On-Page SEO is understanding the search landscape. This can be achieved by performing a few searches for a subject, and comparing SERP results. As SEO skills develop, a writer should be capable of fitting keywords naturally into meta descriptions and title tags.

Strategies for Effective On-Page SEO

1. Optimize Title Tags and Meta Descriptions: Title tags and meta descriptions play a crucial role in attracting clicks from search results. Beginners should ensure that these elements include relevant keywords while also being compelling enough to encourage users to click.
2. Use Header Tags Wisely: Header tags (H1, H2, H3, etc.) help structure content and improve readability. Beginners should use header tags to organize their content logically and include relevant keywords where appropriate.
3. Internal and External Linking: Linking to relevant internal and external sources can enhance the credibility of the content. Beginners should learn to include links that provide additional value to readers, as well as improve the overall SEO of their content.

A Simple Way of Understanding User Intent

What is User Intent?

Understanding how people search for a particular product or service, the “user intent” is often linked to one of the four types of keyword intent. These include the Navigational, Commercial, Informational & Transactional keywords commonly used to reach a specific goal or function. In Search Marketing, the type of keyword intent measured followed by the click actions taken on a page can be used to define the successful alignment of user intent. Understanding user intent is vital for creating content that resonates with the target audience. Beginners often overlook this aspect, leading to content that does not adequately meet users’ needs.

Strategies for Aligning with User Intent

1. Analyze Search Queries: Beginners should study the keywords they are targeting and consider what users could be looking for when they enter those queries. This involves understanding whether the intent is informational, transactional, navigational, or commercial.
2. Create Content That Satisfies User Intent: Once beginners understand user intent, they can create content tailored to meet those needs. For example, if the intent is informational, the content should provide in-depth answers to common questions within that niche. Transactional, it should provide a price.
3. Utilize Agency/Third Party Insights: LionEater research and development can provide valuable data on user behavior and preferences, allowing beginners or new websites to fine-tune their content strategy based on real-world insights.

A Simple Way of Staying Updated with SEO Trends

Studies, SERP Changes and SEO

SEO is not static; it evolves continuously as search engines update their algorithms and user behaviors change. Beginners often feel overwhelmed as they struggle to keep up with the latest trends and best practices. Distractions are everywhere in this industry, making it easy to fall for the latest ‘secret strategy’. The quick win mentality of chasing so-called “SEO Gurus” can hinder and contaminate content effectiveness in copywriting for search engines.

Strategies for Staying Informed

1. Follow Industry Blogs and Influencers: Engaging with reputable SEO blogs and following industry influencers on LinkedIn can provide beginners with valuable insights and updates on the latest trends. Websites like Moz, Search Engine Journal, and LionEater offer valuable resources and guidance.
2. Participate in Online Communities: Joining online forums and communities dedicated to SEO and copywriting can foster learning and networking opportunities. Platforms like Reddit, LinkedIn, and specialized Facebook groups can be excellent resources for beginners seeking guidance.
3. Attend Webinars and Workshops: Online workshops and webinars are great for gaining hands-on knowledge about SEO copywriting. Beginners can find valuable learning opportunities through various SEO organizations and marketing agencies. Usually, the content for these programs is free or priced for someone just starting out.

A Simple Measure for Success and Performance

Understanding Key Metrics

Beginners often find it challenging to measure the effectiveness of their copywriting efforts. Without proper tracking and analysis, it’s difficult to determine what strategies are working and what needs improvement. Understanding the metrics used in digital marketing can help measure performance and identify which pieces of content were a success.

Strategies for Effective Performance Measurement

1. Use Analytics Tools: Tools like Google Analytics can help beginners track website performance, user behavior, and conversion rates. Understanding these metrics can guide future content strategies and highlight areas for improvement.
2. Monitor Keyword Rankings: Beginners should track how well their targeted keywords are ranking over time. Tools like Ahrefs, SEMrush, and LionEater can provide insights into keyword performance and competitive positioning.
3. Gather Feedback: User feedback can be invaluable for assessing content effectiveness. Beginners should encourage readers to leave comments, ratings, or reviews, providing insights into what resonates with their audience.

Overcoming Imposter Syndromes

The Mental Block for Beginners

Imposter syndrome is a common psychological barrier that many beginners face, leading to self-doubt and fear of inadequacy. Try to keep in mind that everyone started at the same place, and overthinking can lead to mental blocks. This mental block can hinder creativity and productivity in copywriting, proving to be the biggest threat to a beginners copywriting career.

Strategies for Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

1. Recognize Your Progress: Beginners should celebrate their achievements and recognize how far they have come in their learning journey. Keeping a record of milestones can help boost confidence.
2. Seek Support and Mentorship: Connecting with more experienced professionals can provide guidance, support, and encouragement. Joining writing groups or seeking mentorship can foster a sense of belonging and validation.
3. Practice Self-Compassion: Beginners should practice self-compassion and understand that everyone makes mistakes. Embracing the learning process can alleviate some of the pressures associated with copywriting.

With the help of valuable tools and insights from industry leaders like LionEater, beginners can navigate the complexities of SEO and emerge as effective, confident copywriters. Emphasizing the importance of continual learning, adapting to changes, and staying true to the audience’s needs will enable beginners to create compelling content that ranks well in search engines and resonates with readers. Ultimately, the key to success lies in combining creativity with strategy, embracing the learning process, and developing a unique voice that stands out in the digital landscape.