Keyword Research with Google Keyword Planner

Researching and then optimizing keywords are two of the most important actions required to run a successful Google Search Ads campaign. Unless you can afford to spend hundreds of dollars a month on keyword research tools, Google’s Keyword Planner is probably the best tool you can use. This blog will go into how to use this tool effectively. 

What is Google Keyword Planner?

Google Keyword Planner is a powerful tool offered by Google Ads (formerly known as Google AdWords). It's designed to help advertisers and businesses find relevant keywords for their campaigns. Whether you're looking to increase website traffic, boost sales, or simply raise brand awareness, Google Keyword Planner can be an invaluable resource in your digital marketing toolkit.

Discover Relevant Keywords

Here's how you can use Google Keyword Planner to discover relevant keywords for your flooring store's Google Search campaign. 

*Note: make sure you have chosen your target location or a broad enough location that includes your target location to get accurate results. Also, you can add your website to the search so google can find other relevant keywords based on your website.

1. Start with a Broad Keyword:
   Begin by entering a broad keyword related to your business, such as "flooring," into the search bar. Google Keyword Planner will provide you with a list of keyword ideas related to your input. Click and save all relevant keywords to your store.
2. Refine Your Keyword List:
   Once you have a list full of saved relevant keywords, review the list of keyword suggestions and filter them based on factors like search volume (how many people are searching the keyword), CPC range, competition level, and relevance to your business. Focus on keywords that align with your campaign goals and are likely to attract potential customers at a cpc you are able to afford.
3. Analyze Keyword Metrics:
   Google Keyword Planner provides valuable data on each keyword, including average monthly searches and competition level. Pay attention to keywords with a healthy balance of search volume, manageable competition, affordable cpc, and positive 3-month change (meaning more people are beginning to search for the keyword, this is a good predictor of flooring trends and can be used in other marketing campaigns across your business).
4. Long-Tail Keywords:
   Consider incorporating long-tail keywords into your campaign. These are more specific and usually have lower competition, making them an excellent choice for targeting niche audiences. For example, instead of "hardwood flooring," you could target "wide-plank hardwood flooring." Users who search long-tail keywords tend to have a higher buyer intent, so it is important to ensure your ads show up for these searches.

Best Practice: You should start off with approximately 25 keywords in your campaign, but from there, you will need to add and subtract keywords based on the data you receive. Never stop optimizing!