Search engine optimization made its big debut in the 1990s. Following its claim to fame, site owners and entrepreneurs alike began introducing this brand-boosting practice into their marketing campaigns. As the efficacy of SEO continues to gain traction, so too does its constituents, such as Google Trends.
Google Trends, a search analytics tool, is a savvy, albeit overlooked, facet of search engine optimization. The two go hand in hand, and with a better understanding of this tool, your SEO tactics will inevitably improve. Here are some pointers on how to use Google Trends for better SEO.
1. Weed Out Any Insufficient Keywords
Unlike previous versions of Google Trends, the current rendering doesn’t require users to set restrictions on their keyword searches. Instead, it merely prompts you to “explore topics.” As a result, users gain access to an arguably overwhelming amount of information.
While it’s useful to have a wealth of insight at your fingertips, much of the data you’ll receive is irrelevant to your company. In an effort to narrow down the pertinent searches, use the categories that are thoughtfully provided.
2. Location, Location, Location
Real estate isn’t the only industry that puts a premium on location. Zeroing in on specific regions bodes well for increased web traffic. Local SEO carries as much weight as general SEO. Unfortunately, this component of SEO is often disregarded.
In the United States, specifically, it’s imperative that you target your audience. The latest trends and social happenings are constantly inundating Americans, and if your company wishes to stand a chance against corporate giants and conglomerates, you need to incorporate location into your search queries.
3. Forecast The Future
With Google continually tweaking algorithms and instituting new paradigms, trends are just as fickle as search engines themselves. By keeping your finger on the pulse, you’ll learn not only how to follow trends but also how to set them as well.
Simply pore over the market, taking note of topical trends that score high on search engines. Using your industry insight, you can predict fads that are lurking in the shadows. In other words, some forethought, in combination with search query statistics, can help you sniff out up-and-coming trends. As a result, you’ll be better equipped to reach a far-ranging audience with your forward-thinking SEO.
4. Employ The Top Charts Tool
One surefire way to remain privy to ongoing crazes is by using the Top Charts implement. Much like its name suggests, this utensil consists of a chart that details the top trends.
Best of all, Top Charts offers categories. With that said, companies of varying backgrounds can use this tool to pinpoint areas that are all the rage. Given the capricious nature of society, Top Charts has proven a valuable tool for SEO users.
5. Maximize Video Exposure
Written content isn’t the only powerful component of SEO. Video production assumes an equally as potent role. As such, YouTube has become a popular platform.
In the hopes of appealing to a broader audience, find terms and questions that are relevant to your video content. This category is entitled “YouTube Search.” It operates the same as web search, providing enlightened perspectives on trends in the YouTube realm. By availing yourself of this advantageous tool, you’ll gain insight into how to title your videos effectively.
6. Study Previous Trends
In this instance, it’s important to dwell on the past. In search engine optimization, everything is a domino effect. In order to grasp current affairs, you need to have a deep understanding of what once was. It’s for this reason why it’s essential to examine prior fads.
This is where the “Past 12 Months” option comes into play. Having a thorough comprehension of past popular search terms will enable you to detect whether or not they’ll make a comeback. While studying previous trends, ask yourself if there were certain seasons, months or periods when a particular search term was relevant.
7. Determine Traffic-Heavy Days
When it comes to search engine optimization, even the most minute of details are weighed. For example, pinpointing the days of the week that users are more inclined to browse the web. With that in mind, the days on which you post content play an instrumental role in gaining better SEO rankings.
One way to gauge which days work best for your niche is to search related terms and inquiries. From there, you can determine if weekends or weekdays are more suitable. Experts recommend sending out emails to subscribers to encourage and remind them to visit your website on a predetermined date.
8. Identify Your Soft Underbellies
Though you may be infatuated with an SEO initiative that you pioneered, the numbers seldom lie. If your stats indicate that a certain term or phrase is missing the mark, it’s prudent to bid that notion farewell. It may be a blow to your ego, but your hopes will only be temporarily dashed.
Search analytics tools exist for a reason and blatantly ignoring the facts is not conducive to online success. If you wish to prevail in the digital domain, it’s essential that you distinguish what works from what doesn’t.
9. Be Mindful Of Blind Spots
In some cases, fads come and go so quickly that you may never get a chance to capitalize on them. While you may be desperate to squeeze out any remaining relevancy, your efforts will ultimately be in vain.
As soon as trends peter out, you should move on as well. After all, it’s yesterday’s news. SEO experts often get so bogged down in the details that they fail to look at the longer timeline. Don’t succumb to this same unfavorable reality.
10. Look For Rising Queries
The handiest tool at your disposal is the “Rising” implement. In short, this device allows you to research trends with ease. Once you’ve typed in a keyword phrase, you’ll receive search terms that are on a steady incline.
Even if these topics don’t completely relate to your shtick, there are always clever ways to implement them into your content. If better SEO is what you desire, make it a point to consult the “Rising” tab regularly.
The riveting realm of SEO is expansive and perpetually advancing. The above tips on how to use Google Trends for better SEO serve to elevate your brand’s online presence. If you’re looking to eclipse your competitors while maintaining an admirable image, heed the above advice.