Keyword Research

So before you begin your site, start by using a keyword tool like The Google AdWords Planner or Long Tail Pro (what I use) to find out exactly how people are searching for your topic.

Go for long-tail keywords. which are phrases that are less competitive. Sure, not as many people search for these phrases, but they are easier to rank for because there's less competition.

You can watch me use The Google Keyword Planner below.

As far as the numbers go, I like my primary keyword phrase (main idea) to have at least 2,000-5,000 global monthly searches. But I also look at many of the related keywords to make sure there are enough phrases with at least 4-digit monthly searches.

I don't get caught up in the numbers. Even if the phrase is lower than my idea range, if there are a variety of related phrases with decent demand I'll still consider the topic.

Don't let the numbers paralyze you. Also check out your competition by searching Google for various keywords and analyze your ability to compete. If the majority of the sites are similar or less than stellar, the topic may not be as competitive as you think.

Now, let's say I had chosen to search for the phrase teenagers instead.

The global monthly search volume is 74,000. That may sound great because there's a lot more traffic potential. However, the phrase teenagers is way too broad. You won't know anything about what the person is searching for.

Again, it would be harder to target your content and products to such a broad audience. It would also be harder to gain a top 10 ranking for that competitive phrase.

So once you've taken the time to identify a niche, congrats, you are light years ahead of most people who often rush and assume they have taken the best approach simply because they have a "great" idea.

I hope you understand now that having an idea for your website isn't enough. You need to research the demand and have a plan for how people are going to find your site.