Yes, the individual keyword is still useful when used correctly, but it must be done in a targeted fashion. Some programmers are no longer bothering to use keyword tags at all, since the latest buzz is that they no longer hold weight with search engine ranking. However, they still count if a targeted keyword strategy is applied. The proper method today is to combine each individual keyword with other keywords of value to form a word string. This is referred to as long tail keywords and has replaced the individual keyword method for increasing SEO visibility. Spending the time to research to find the right keyword string creating search terms will make all the difference.
Why has the individual keyword lost value with SEO?
Blogging using targeted keywords
Before Google changed their algorithm, many site owners were found to be abusing keyword placement. Website owners were putting too many keywords into the meta language. This abuse is referred to as “keyword stuffing.” They felt they could “trick” the search engine bots by repeating a keyword over and over again. We all know now that this is not the correct method for using a keyword and it does not help the page rank. Once this was the case for many websites, Google finally had enough and made the change.
How keyword strategy has evolved:
Today, search engines are looking for valuable and highly focused content, helpful to all of those who visit. If the content strays too far from the page relevance, the power of the keywords will be lost. This method builds a data-driven set of keywords which will get the best results.
An authority website:
Due your due diligence by researching and building a list of core keywords and phrases. Use those as you blog and use them in the pages of the website. Over time, you will be building a site with true value and the site will be known as an authority site (one that has added strength and SEO value). This type of site will always receive a higher search engine visibility. Here are some options to consider when using keyword strings which will elevate your site value. Include them in the following ways:
- Blog articles
- Page descriptions
- Optimized images
- Page titles
Blog plugin that we suggest:
A really good plugin that we recommend for WordPress sites is called “SEO by Yoast.” Clients who blog each week can use this plugin to keep the content populated with targeted keyword phrases. This method will point out to visiting search engines that the content is relevant and worth listing in data bases. It will add value to each new blog entry.
Thanks for stopping by and hurry back for more next time.
Jean Holland-Rose is the Chief Creative Officer overseeing brand development and graphic design for Inside Design Orlando. She is also an SEO strategist for many websites nationwide, assisting clients to maximize their online presence through her proven marketing and SEO strategies. She encourages continuing SEO education and is passionate about new smart technologies.
Disclaimer: Although we attempt to keep information accurate, the accuracy of the information provided cannot be guaranteed. All information found online should be researched for accuracy.
