Keyword Strategy in Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
Introduction
An effective SEO strategy means giving the most relevant and high-quality response to a user’s search query. It has two main parts:
- Understanding search intent — why the user typed that keyword.
- Creating content that satisfies intent better than competitors.
Earlier, SEO focused on meta tags, site speed, and backlinks. Today, CMS tools automate these tasks, so the focus is on content quality, originality, and user value. With AI tools generating generic text, Google rewards unique insights and thought leadership.
1. Developing Customer Personas
The first step in SEO strategy is defining the target audience.
- Customer personas are profiles of audience goals, challenges, and preferences.
- B2B marketing personas include job titles, responsibilities, KPIs, and decision-making roles.
- B2C marketing personas are based on demographics, shopping habits, pain points, and interests.
Personas guide keyword selection and ensure content speaks to the intended audience.
2. Understanding Search Intent & Transactionality
Each keyword has a search intent ranging from research to transactional.
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Research intent examples: “what does an air purifier do?”, “air purifier vs humidifier.”
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Transactional intent examples: “best project management software”, “[brand name] review.”
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B2B buyers prefer quick comparisons and reviews.
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B2C customers research more before purchase.
Matching keywords to intent increases satisfaction and conversions.
3. Hub & Spoke Model
The Hub & Spoke model organizes keywords efficiently.
- Hub keyword: central, short keyword (e.g., “project management software”).
- Spoke keywords: long-tail variations around the hub (e.g., “best project management software for startups”).
Rules for selecting spokes:
- Must contain hub keyword.
- Appear in Google autocomplete or SEO tools.
- Be transactional in nature.
- Avoid duplication of existing rankings.
- Be realistically rankable within ~24 months.
This model supports structured campaigns, internal linking, and conversion funnels.
4. Assigning Page Types to Keywords
Correct page type depends on search intent.
- B2B companies: landing pages, solution pages, and case studies for professional audiences.
- B2C companies: product pages supported by blogs and guides.
Blogs are flexible, answering research queries while including calls-to-action for transactions.
5. Creating the Best SEO Content
The best content is the one that fulfills search intent with correct page type and writing style.
- Direct tone: give quick answers, expand later.
- Visual aids: use tables, graphs, and charts to simplify. Images must add value.
- Value-based writing: avoid filler content, provide genuine insights.
Good SEO content builds trust, authority, and repeat visits, leading to subscriptions and purchases.



