How to Rank on a Specific Keyword Using SEO

SEO is not dead. Quite the contrary, it is still alive and well. Search engines like the almighty Google continue to seek out and reward quality pages with the right blend of content, SEO and other seemingly mysterious criteria.

How To Rank For Those Keywords?

What is the secret to rank high with specific keywords? Is it finding the right keywords? Placing them correctly? Using just the right amount?

Here's the secret: Trying to rank for one keyword is a waste of time. There are several reasons for this, but one major reason is that while you may get some initial traffic from that one keyword, most of it isn't going to stick around. One word does not create quality traffic, and won't lead to many customers.

The better strategy is to rank for long-tail keywords and phrases that will bring in traffic that connects you to potential customers. People who are looking for you and your products and services.

How To Approach SEO Today

It's all about creating amazing content. Of course you need to pay attention to SEO, and you should, but never at the cost of quality content on your site.

Aside from keywords, there are other tools that help your business rank higher in search. For example, local Search Engine Optimization is extremely important, and something some businesses overlook. When someone is looking for a product or service in your area, you want them to find you. Be sure you are utilizing local SEO practices so that you will be matched with potential customers in your area. For ranking using local search, here are some criteria you should meet:

You have a physical address (not a P.O. box)
You have a phone number with a local area code
You do business face to face with your customers

Google verification, maps and citation creation are also important. Citations are simply mentions of your business on other sites, even if there is no link. This can include business directories and online "phone books" for your area. These help build your identity so that Google knows you are who you say you are.

Online review sites with links to your business are also a good option. They build trust and visibility. Reviews and ratings not only help your reputation, they also boost search.

You can measure the results of your SEO practices by monitoring their ranking with the HubSpot Keywords tool. This will allow you to see how your keyword rankings are increasing through your efforts. You can also make use of HubSpot's page performance tool to optimize website content, blogs, land pages and more.

As you can see, it's not just about those keywords. Be sure you are taking advantage of other tools that can increase visibility. Don't ignore keywords, but be sure you are using long tail key-phrases that are relevant. Be sure you are producing quality content on a regular basis, and be sure your site is mobile-friendly and updated on a regular basis.