Using the Google Keyword Tool

The Google Keyword Tool is one of the most exciting new tools available to those interested in internet marketing.  Finding the right keywords and incorporating them into your website is still the best way to increase the number of page views and ensure that each person who views your page is a potential customer or client.  Google has long been the most widely used search engine, so targeting your marketing budget and time to improving your position in the search results here will yield the best return on investment. 

      Before you begin to create your online content, you should always consult the Google Adwords Keyword tool.  This will help you understand which terms are most commonly searched in your field.  If you are selling baked goods online, for example, type “bakery” or “gourmet cakes” into the keyword field.  Remember that finding the most specific keywords possible is important, particularly if you are offering an uncommon service.  Though these keywords may be searched less often, those who do use them will be most likely to want your service or product.  In addition, the less keyword competition there is, the more likely it will be that you will rank high on the search results list. 

      After you have typed in your keyword, Google will provide you with a list of common related search terms.  If you have typed in bakery, for example, you may find results that include the names of specific baked goods, locations, or big name competitors.  Just because a search term is common, this does not mean that you should use it.  Only choose those terms that are relevant to your business.  Though the manner in which Google ranks pages has not been made public, their relevancy to the search does have an impact on where the page is placed.  So, make sure not to choose words simply because they are popular.

      Use the list of keywords provided by the Google Adwords Tool to create custom content for your website.  If you are just starting out, try to include one of these in your website’s URL.  For those with an established website, modify the content so that some of these keywords appear frequently and on each page.  The higher the incidence, the higher the placement on the Google search engine results page. 

      If you are interested in more help with the Google Keyword tool, there are a number of resources online designed to help you get started.