What Exactly Is a Keyword?

Summary 

Keywords are the search terms your customers use online. Using them strategically helps your website get found, attract the right visitors and provide content that meets user needs - all while improving your SEO. 

If you’ve dipped your toe into the world of digital marketing, you’ve probably heard the term keyword thrown around. But what exactly is a keyword, and why do you need to use them? 

Let’s break it down: 

Keywords: How People Find Your Business Online

Think of keywords as the words and phrases people type into Google (or any search engine) when they’re looking for something. They’re basically the bridge between what your business offers and what your customers are searching for.

For example, if you run a digital marketing agency in Chichester (like us), someone might search for “SEO agency Chichester” or “blog writing services” Using these keywords naturally across your website helps Google understand what your business does and makes it easier for potential customers to find you. 

See what we did there?

Why Keywords Are So Important

Without the right keywords, your website is tucked away online, people won’t know it exists! By focusing on the right keywords, you can:

• Be more visible on search engines like Google

• Attract more organic visitors who are actively looking for what you offer

• Reach customers at every stage of their journey, from browsing to buying

• Encourage more enquiries or sales

The key is knowing what your customers are searching for and creating content that matches their needs.

How to Use Keywords Effectively in 2025

Keyword strategy isn’t about stuffing your pages with random phrases, it’s about thoughtful placement and creating content that genuinely helps people. Here’s how:

1. Think about search intent – Are people looking for information, ready to buy, or comparing options? Match your content to their intent.

2. Do proper keyword research – Tools like Google Keyword Planner, Ubersuggest or SEMrush can help you find the phrases people actually use.

3. Use keywords naturally – Sprinkle them throughout your content, headings, and meta descriptions, but don’t overdo it. Content should always read smoothly for humans first.

4. Optimise key spots – Make sure your titles, headers, image descriptions, and meta tags include your main keywords. Find out how to write meta titles and descriptions that make your content work harder. (link to meta title and description blog!)   

5. Keep an eye on performance – Tools like Google Search Console let you track how your keywords are performing and spot new opportunities.

Make Your Content Work for People and Search Engines

The best content in 2025 is all about the user. Google prioritises pages that genuinely answer questions and solve problems. A few ways to make your content shine:

• Create detailed guides – Cover a topic thoroughly to position your website as an authority.

• Use structured data – This helps search engines understand your content and can boost your chances of appearing in rich results.

• Prioritise UX – Fast loading times, mobile-friendly design, and easy navigation make visitors happy—and Google notices.

Read more about why SEO and content go hand in hand. 

Let Us Take Care of Your Keywords and SEO

Feeling overwhelmed by keywords and SEO? Don’t worry - we’ve got you! From finding the right keywords to optimising your site for search engines, our SEO Specialists at Website Success can handle it all so your website gets seen by the right people.

Call our Chichester digital marketing agency today on 01243 888 555 or click here to book a chat in our diary.