Advanced Keyword Research – Tips, Tools & Strategies To Win The Competition

Ever been on a treasure hunt? Well, that’s how I see advanced keyword research – a quest for opportunity. It’s like decoding the internet’s secret language to find what users really want.

But why does it matter?

Because this isn’t just about traffic or visibility anymore. It is about finding keywords that help you create more targeted, relevant, and effective content. Keywords that get you more conversations.

Our advanced keyword research guide will enable you to unlock the key to your SEO success and give wings to your content marketing efforts, taking them from good to great!

By the end of our journey together, you’ll not only understand basic versus advanced keyword research but also know which tools to use and steps to follow. You’ll discover the role of long-tail keywords and learn all about Latent Semantic Indexing (LSI) keywords.

Understanding The Importance Of Advanced Keyword Research

Advanced Keyword research involves:

• Understanding the user intent behind search queries
• Examining the types of content ranking in search results
• Focusing on topics and their semantic relationships
• Monitoring changes in keyword popularity over time
• Digging deeper into competitors’ keyword strategies
• Finding and expanding on unique keyword ideas
• Aligning keywords with broader business objectives

 

In short: Finding the most profitable keywords for your niche

It’s a strategic process that involves understanding your audience, uncovering their needs, and delivering content that matches their intent.

If we look into Google’s algorithm updates like RankBrain and BERT, it becomes clear that this tech giant is focusing more on understanding user intent than ever before. So now, our aim should be not only to get higher SERP rankings but also to meet user expectations by providing valuable information through relevant content.

Digging deeper with advanced keyword research

Moving beyond traditional methods allows us to dive deeper into the minds of users. By doing so, we’re able to capture long-tail keywords – phrases typically longer than three words – which are often less competitive yet have decent traffic potential.

Semantic search and topic clustering is a more modern approach to SEO. Clusters are formed of topics, and semantically related keywords are grouped based on keyword intent rather than just individual keywords.

This approach provides insight into what consumers are really looking for when they type these queries into search engines — giving us an opportunity for precise targeting and improved conversion rates.

From visibility to conversion

The real prize in marketing, SEO included, isn’t just about getting seen. It’s about making things happen – turning viewers into customers. Pages optimized for long tail keywords move up 11 positions on average (compared to 5 positions for seed keywords), which can boost their conversion chances by a whopping 50%.

Differentiating Basic From Advanced Keyword Research

Let’s cut to the chase. For the more advanced professionals, SEO keyword research of a higher complexity is required. The basics of keyword research are relatively easy and can be worked on by beginners. But then there’s the advanced keyword research process – a whole different beast.

This isn’t your typical “insert a few related terms in your material” methodology. Oh no. This blog post is all about advanced keyword research tips and getting deeper into search intent, exploring long-tail keywords, understanding LSI (Latent Semantic Indexing), and using sophisticated tools for data analysis.

The basics: A quick recap

Basic keyword research revolves around identifying high-volume search terms related to your niche or industry.

You might use free tools like Google Keyword Planner or paid options such as SEMrush and Ahrefs in this process. Still, at its core, you’re essentially looking for popular phrases people use when searching online within your area of expertise.

Taking it up a notch: The advanced SEO approach

Creating advanced keyword research strategies requires digging more deeply than surface-level metrics like monthly search volume alone. You’ll start by building off those foundational keywords with more specific queries based on user intent—understanding what exactly someone wants when they type in their query—a concept known as “long-tail” keywords.

A searcher typing “Italian restaurants” has a different intent than one who searches “best Italian restaurant near me for date night.” The latter is an example of a long-tail keyword.

But the research goes beyond just the basics. It covers things like LSI keywords, which are terms related to your primary keyword. This is another layer of strategy that can give your SEO efforts a big boost.

Proven Advanced Keyword Research Strategies

Performing advanced keyword research is like fishing in the vast ocean of search queries. You’re not just casting your net randomly; you’re using sonar (research tools) and knowledge about fish behavior (user intent) to locate where the best catches are.

1. Long-tail keywords in advanced keyword research

A key part of advanced keyword research is understanding long-tail keywords—those specific phrases that users type when they’re closer to making a purchase or finding an answer—and Latent Semantic Indexing (LSI) terms that relate contextually to your primary topic.

Their length often exceeds three words, and their specificity helps them stand out from broader search queries. So instead of someone searching “shoes,” a user is more likely to input “red leather women’s boots size 7”. That’s an example of a long-tail keyword right there.

Why are long-tails crucial?

With fewer searches being made for these precise phrases, competition tends to be lower. It means it’s easier for your content to rank higher in SERPs (Search Engine Results Pages) if you’ve optimized it around such keyphrases.

Furthermore, because the searcher has specified exactly what they want, conversion rates can also be significantly better with this approach.

A look at the numbers

In a most recent study by First Page Sage, we see how dramatically click-through rates increase as we move up Google’s search engine rankings. The first position gathers a total of 39.8% clicks, which divindles by more than half to 18.7% for the second organic result. When you make use of long-tail keywords and hit those top spots on page one — even position number one — clicks skyrocket. The message here: don’t underestimate these lengthy little powerhouses.

Finding your long-tail keywords

To find long-tail keywords, you can use tools like Ahrefs’ Keywords Explorer or Moz’s Keyword Explorer. These resources give keyword data, including insights into search volumes and keyword difficulty scores, and even generate a list of keyword ideas for potential long-tail keywords based on your input.

The ‘People Also Ask’ section in Google search results is my go-to spot for related long-tail queries. Again, you may visit forums, Reddit, and Q&A sites like Quora to see the specific questions and phrases people use in your niche. Review the organic search terms through Google Analytics and Search Console that are bringing traffic to your site. These are your potential long-tail keywords.

2. Incorporating LSI keywords into your strategy

LSI, or Latent Semantic Indexing keywords, are a critical part of an advanced keyword research strategy. They can give your on-page SEO efforts that extra edge by enhancing relevance and context.

The power of context: Why Google loves LSI?

When you use relevant LSI keywords within your content, it helps search engines better understand what you’re talking about. It’s like painting a picture with more colors – the result is richer detail that makes for a fuller understanding.

But how does using these contextual companions help improve rankings? By providing clear context through LSIs’, Google feels more confident in presenting your page to users because it comprehends the overall theme better than before. This confidence can translate into improved visibility on Google’s search results. (Search Engine Results Pages).

Use LSI keyword tools like LSIGraph or Google’s ‘Related Searches’ at the bottom of search results. Analyze top-ranking pages for your primary keywords to see what relevant terms are common among most of them. Those are your potential LSI keywords.

3. Tracking internal site search

If your website has a search bar, internal site search data can provide valuable insights into user behavior, content preferences, and keyword usage. Analyze the queries visitors are typing. You are sure to stumble upon unique or unexpected terms that might not have been considered in your initial keyword research.

Internal site search data can reveal gaps in your website’s content coverage, as well as keywords that users are actively searching for within your website. These keywords represent real search intent and can indicate topics or products that your website may not be adequately addressing. 

By identifying these content gaps, you can create a new keyword list and content that fills those voids and potentially capture additional search traffic. Target keywords uncovered here to improve content relevance and enhance the user experience.

4. Leveraging affiliate keywords

Affiliate keywords play a crucial role in advanced keyword research, particularly for businesses that rely on affiliate marketing to drive revenue. By identifying and targeting relevant affiliate keywords, you can attract potential customers who are actively searching for products or services that you promote, leading to increased clicks, conversions, and affiliate commissions.

By incorporating contextually relevant keywords in a piece of content, you can encourage clicks and increase the likelihood of conversions. Affiliate keywords can also reveal niche markets and specific product categories that are generating interest among potential customers. Here are some keyword research tips to find affiliate keywords for your niche-

1. Leverage influencer marketing tools: Utilize influencer marketing tools like BuzzSumo and Upfluence to identify popular influencers in your niche and analyze their content for relevant affiliate keywords.
2. Analyze customer reviews: Review customer feedback and product reviews to uncover common keywords and phrases that people use when discussing your affiliate products or services.
3. Utilize Amazon keyword research tools: If you are promoting products from Amazon, consider using Amazon-specific keyword research tools like AMZScout or Jungle Scout to identify high-converting affiliate keywords with low competition.
4. Monitor industry publications and blogs: Regularly read industry publications and blogs related to your niche to stay updated on emerging trends, popular products, and relevant keywords.
5. Analyze popular affiliate networks: Review popular affiliate networks like ClickBank, ShareASale, and Commission Junction to identify top-performing affiliate products and associated keywords.

5. Keyword trend analysis using Google Trends 

Google Trends is a highly valuable tool you can leverage for advanced keyword research. It provides you with an overview of the popularity of search terms over time. Not only that, but it also shows interest by region, related topics, related queries, trending keywords and more. The information this tool provides is indispensable in understanding both the current and historical interest in specific keywords and can inform your strategy moving forward. 

Note: If you are a local business, you should check out our special blog titled keyword research for local SEO.

1. Compare search volume trends: Use Google Trends to compare the search volume trends of different keywords over time. This can help you identify the exact keywords that are gaining or losing popularity, allowing you to focus your efforts to find keywords with increasing search volume and potential traffic growth.
2. Analyze related queries and topics: Google Trends suggests related search queries and topics for each keyword you search for. These suggestions can reveal new keywords that users are actively searching for, providing you with a broader understanding of user intent and related topics to address in your content.
3. Identify seasonal trends: Analyze search volume trends for seasonal keywords. This can help you tailor your content strategy and marketing efforts to align with seasonal peaks and valleys in search interest, leading to more relevant and timely content for users.
4. Uncover regional search trends: Identify keywords that are particularly popular in specific geographic areas and check their search volume trends. Using such keywords allows you to target your content and marketing efforts to specific regions and localize your offerings. 
5. Compare keyword performance across search engines: Google Trends allows you to compare search volume trends across different search engines, such as Google, Bing, and Yahoo. This can provide insights into how different search engines rank your keywords and help you optimize your content for specific search engines.
6. Identify rising keywords: Utilize Google Trends’ Rising Searches feature to identify keywords that are experiencing a sudden surge in search volume. This can help you stay ahead of emerging trends and create timely content that captures traffic from users actively seeking information on these trending topics.
7. Analyze keyword interest by demographics: Google Trends provides insights into keyword interest by demographics, such as age, gender, and location. This can help you understand the target audience for specific keywords and tailor your content and marketing efforts to reach the most relevant users.
8. Track keyword performance after content creation: Monitor the search volume trends for your targeted keywords after publishing content related to those keywords. This can help you measure the effectiveness of your content and identify areas for improvement.

 

6. Considering grouped zero search volume keywords

Grouped zero search volume keywords, which are keywords that don’t have any individual search volume, can be an essential part of advanced keyword research when analyzed collectively. While they might not generate direct, organic traffic all on their own, they can provide valuable insights into user behavior, search patterns, and emerging trends.

Why consider zero search volume keywords? 

Conventional wisdom suggests focusing on keywords with relatively high search volume. Though logical, such an approach can overlook the latent potential held within zero search volume keywords. Here’s why they deserve consideration: 

• Inherent relevance: By their very nature, these are highly specific keywords. Users typing them are looking for particular information. Targeting keywords that cater to these hyper-relevant searches can help you address specific user queries, provide comprehensive information, and demonstrate your expertise in niche areas. 
• Low competition: Due to their zero volume status, many marketers ignore these keywords. This means they often have much lower competition. These low-competition keywords also serve as building blocks for long-tail keywords. As a result, they can represent a low-effort, high-reward facet of your keyword research strategy.
• Future potential: Zero search volume keywords can sometimes indicate emerging trends or topics that are not yet widely searched for. By identifying these early on, you can create content that positions your website as an authority on these emerging trends, potentially attracting early adopters and gaining a competitive edge.

Identifying grouped zero search volume keywords 

Uncovering these hidden gems requires a slightly more refined approach than customary keyword research. Here are some strategies: 

1. Consider audience vernacular: Think about the queries your target audience could use to find your service or product. These vernacular terms often form the basis of zero search volume keywords.
2. Research forums & comment sections: These platforms can give you the most used industry jargon and specific terminology. Scanning forums like Quora, Reddit, or niche-specific communities can unveil zero-volume terms while giving new keyword ideas.
3. Analyze Google Search Console (GSC) data: GSC provides valuable insights into the search terms that have led to organic clicks on your website. By analyzing the “Queries” report, you can identify keywords that have received impressions but no clicks. These keywords may have zero search volume, but they can indicate user intent and potential topics to address in your content.
4. Utilize keyword grouping tools: Employ keyword grouping tools like SEOGadget’s Keyword Grouper or Group Keywords to create a keyword cluster of related terms based on their semantic similarity. This can help you identify groups of zero search volume keywords that share a common theme, allowing you to understand user intent and potential content topics.

Tools For Conducting Advanced Keyword Research

When it comes to advanced keyword research, the right keyword tool can make all the difference. Let’s take a peek at some options that could help you devise the right keyword strategy for SEO and gain an advantage with advanced keyword analysis.

Ahrefs: The comprehensive suite

Ahrefs, known for its vast index of backlinks and extensive SEO toolkit, is also a powerful player in the realm of keyword research. Its Keywords Explorer tool allows you to dig into detailed metrics about each keyword, such as search volume and keyword difficulty score.

The cherry on top? It offers thousands of related keywords for your seed keyword, along with their corresponding data. This is something crucial when diving deep into advanced keyword research strategies for SEO.

Semrush: All about competitive analysis

If analyzing your competitor’s domain is part of your organic research, then Semrush might be the best keyword research tool for you. This tool provides insights into organic search results and paid search traffic while uncovering direct competitors’ best-performing keywords – giving you more than just a peek behind enemy lines.

Beyond competition analysis, Semrush also helps find long-tail keywords and tracks ranking changes over time – keeping you ahead in this fast-paced game called SEO.

KWFinder: For finding long-tail keywords with low competition

KWFinder by Mangools is another advanced tool for finding profitable long-tail low-competition keywords. Apart from showing search volumes, trends, CPC (Cost Per Click), or PPC (Pay Per Click), it also provides an SEO difficulty score for each keyword – helping you strike a balance between demand and competition.

AnswerThePublic: Visualizing keyword ideas

AnswerThePublic, unlike the other tools, gives us a more visual approach. It helps uncover questions people are asking about your keywords, presenting them in easy-to-understand visuals. The best part is it uses real-time data, offering up-to-date insights into what people are currently asking.

Conclusion 

Advanced keyword research is indisputably a cornerstone of successful SEO strategies. It empowers businesses to comprehend and map out their target audience’s search behavior and needs, paving the way for enhanced visibility and conversions. An in-depth keyword research strategy, therefore, is a worthwhile investment in your journey toward SEO mastery.

The journey may seem complex at first glance: distinguishing basic from advanced research and mastering various tools and techniques. But with every step forward – comprehending long-tail keywords and incorporating LSI keywords into your strategy – you become more adept in this task.

Dive deep into concepts like keyword difficulty and search volume. Unravel user intent to find keyword ideas and create SEO strategies that truly resonate with users. Remember to use features like ‘People also ask’ & ‘Related searches’ on Google SERPs for even more insights. You can also use Google Analytics to find keywords you already rank for. 

Your reward? A robust SEO game plan that boosts organic traffic, visibility, and conversions…and takes your digital marketing efforts from good to great!

FAQs

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions regarding advanced keyword research.

What is the main difference between basic and advanced keyword research?

Basic keyword research involves finding relevant keywords for your niche. In contrast, the advanced approach takes keyword research to the next level, considering factors like user intent, long-tail keywords, low-competition key phrases, and semantic search trends.

What tools can you use for advanced keyword research?

Tools like Ahrefs, Semrush, KWFinder, and AnswerThePublic are often used for conducting keyword research for a more advanced approach. Each tool has unique strengths, such as competition analysis, finding long-tail keywords, or visualizing keyword ideas.

Why should I consider incorporating long-tail keywords into my SEO strategy?

Long-tail keywords are essential as they’re less competitive and more specific, therefore easy to rank for. They often lead to higher conversion rates. They also align better with voice search trends and help you rank well for valuable search queries.

How do I identify LSI (Latent Semantic Indexing) keywords?

LSI Graph and Google’s ‘related searches’ or ‘people also ask’ sections are helpful ways to find search queries that are related to your niche to discover LSI keywords. Various tools like Ahrefs and Google Search Console can also help you to find related keywords.

What value do zero-search-volume keywords offer?

Despite having no search volume, these keywords can be beneficial. They might be new search trends, localized terms, or niche-specific jargon that have low competition and high specificity, making them valuable assets in reaching the right audience.

Once you have your keywords, here’s an actionable list of what to do after keyword research.