Keyword research: Unlock your online potential
From SEO and content marketing to paid advertising and social media campaigns, keyword research is the foundation of any successful online strategy. It involves identifying the terms and phrases people use when searching online, analysing their search volume and competition, and strategically incorporating them into your website and content to attract more targeted traffic and improve your search engine rankings.
What to look for in a keyword research freelancer
Finding the right keyword research freelancer can significantly impact your online success. Look for individuals with a proven track record of delivering results. Essential qualities include:
- Strong analytical skills: They should be able to interpret data from various SEO tools and draw actionable insights.
- Up-to-date knowledge of SEO best practices: The digital landscape is constantly evolving, so it's crucial they stay informed about the latest algorithm updates and trends.
- Excellent communication skills: They should be able to clearly explain their research findings and recommendations in a way that's easy to understand.
- Experience with relevant tools: Familiarity with tools like SEMrush, Ahrefs, Google Keyword Planner, and Moz is essential.
Main expertise areas to inquire about
Keyword research encompasses several key areas. When interviewing potential freelancers, discuss their expertise in:
- Keyword discovery and analysis: Identifying relevant keywords based on your target audience, business goals, and industry trends.
- Competitor analysis: Analysing your competitors' keyword strategies to identify opportunities and gaps.
- Long-tail keyword research: Focusing on longer, more specific phrases that target niche audiences and often have less competition.
- Local SEO keyword research: Optimising for location-based keywords to attract customers in your geographic area.
Relevant interview questions
Here are some questions to help you assess a freelancer's keyword research skills:
- Can you describe your keyword research process?
- What tools do you use for keyword research?
- How do you identify long-tail keywords?
- How do you measure the success of a keyword research campaign?
- Share an example of a successful keyword research project you've worked on.
Tips for shortlisting candidates
When shortlisting, consider:
- A portfolio and case studies: Review their previous work to see the results they've achieved for other clients.
- Client testimonials: Look for positive feedback from previous clients regarding their communication, professionalism, and results.
- Niche expertise: If your business operates in a specific niche, look for freelancers with experience in that area.
Potential red flags
Be wary of freelancers who:
- Promise guaranteed rankings: No one can guarantee specific rankings in search results.
- Focus solely on keyword volume: A high search volume doesn't always translate to relevant traffic.
- Lack a clear process: A structured approach to keyword research is essential for achieving consistent results.
Typical complementary skills
Keyword research often goes hand-in-hand with skills such as:
- SEO content writing
- On-page optimisation
- Link building
- Technical SEO
What problems a keyword research freelancer can solve
Hiring a skilled keyword research freelancer can help you:
- Increase organic traffic to your website
- Improve your search engine rankings
- Target the right audience with your content
- Gain a competitive edge in your industry
- Inform your overall content strategy and ensure it resonates with your target audience.
For example, imagine a small business selling handmade jewellery online. A keyword research freelancer could identify relevant keywords like 'sterling silver earrings', 'handmade necklaces UK', and 'personalised jewellery gifts'. By strategically incorporating these keywords into the website's product descriptions, blog posts, and meta tags, the business can attract more qualified traffic and increase sales.
Another example could be a local restaurant looking to increase foot traffic. A freelancer could target location-based keywords like 'best Italian restaurant in Brighton' or 'restaurants near me open late'. This would help the restaurant appear higher in local search results, driving more customers through their doors.
Investing in professional keyword research is a crucial step towards achieving your online business goals. By understanding the nuances of this skill and knowing what to look for in a freelancer, you can unlock the full potential of your online presence and drive sustainable growth.
