Strategic Keyword Targeting for Rapid SEO Gains
The primary goal for every SEO professional is to achieve a significant increase in organic traffic within a short timeframe. A highly effective strategy to realize this goal is to deliberately target keywords that possess a desirable balance of high search volume and low competition.
Why Target Low-Competition Keywords?
Focusing on keywords with low competition—also known as low-difficulty keywords—is a tactical first step because it makes achieving a high ranking in Search Engine Results Pages (SERPs) much more attainable. While these keywords may individually have lower search volume, targeting them provides several key advantages:
- Faster Ranking: It is easier to rank quickly for low-competition keywords, allowing a domain to establish authority and visibility sooner.
- Targeted Traffic: They often consist of long-tail keywords—longer and more specific phrases—which act as filters, connecting users with precise solutions to their particular problems. This results in highly relevant and qualified visitors.
The Growth Pathway
Instead of immediately pursuing short, highly competitive keywords, the recommended approach is as follows:
- Phase 1: Build Authority
- Focus on low-competition keywords that are easier to rank for.
- This initial success builds the domain’s authority and traffic foundation.
- Phase 2: Scale Up
- Once the domain is consistently ranking for these easier terms, the SEO team can then strategically pivot to targeting high-volume and high-competition keywords.
- For aspirational, high-volume terms related to major brands or tools (e.g., “HubSpot” or “Mailchimp”), success requires comprehensive and authoritative content that covers the industry from every conceivable aspect and angle.
While many marketers dismiss low-difficulty keywords due to their smaller individual search volumes, they are a fundamental component of a sustainable and results-driven SEO growth strategy.