How to use keyword phrases for your web page

Why are keywords important in a web site?

In order to rank highly and be returned in search results, Google, and other search engines rank information-rich quality pages. This is how Google stays ahead and is the leader in delivering relevant search results to users.

Google looks for the keyword phrase that you typed in the search bar and if the keyword phrase is found and is 'voted' high by the community, the most relevant web pages will be returned first. A web page is voted favourably if many trusted and important web sites are linked to it. See How to promote your web site for further information on ranking well.

How to choose keywords for a web site

Choose two or three highly targeted keyword pairs (or keyword phrases) for each page of your site that are not too common, but are under-used key words compared to the competition.

How to use keywords in a web site

Your keyword phrases must be written clearly, have readability, flow, and be concise. They must be of quality and of use to others. This is called web site copywriting / editing.

Use keyword phrases, not keywords. E.g.: Do not optimize the word "Travel" but "Canadian Travel". Be specific.
Use keyword phrases in hyperlinks instead of graphics
Use Headlines and Titles with keyword phrases, if readable
Spread the use of keyword phrases throughout your page, but do not overdue it
Too many keyword phrases can dilute the page, so in some cases change some of the text to graphics
Include the location of your business or service as people often search with a location to narrow their search results.
Do not place all of your keywords on your home page
Make sure you know which form of the search word is most often used, or use both forms so it reads better.
Use different spellings of the same word on different pages so it does not look like a mistake. E.g.: E-mail and email. Use the most popular spellings for the most popular pages, especially your home page.

References

Jill Whalen

If you would like assistance in choosing keywords and promoting your web site effectively, please contact Office Activate.

Our firm serves Hamilton , Ancaster , Brantford , Burlington and surrounding areas. 2-140 King Street East Suite 306 Hamilton, ON, L8N 1B2, Canada