Did you know that 75% of people never scroll past the first page of search engine results? That’s why mastering Semrush for keyword research is crucial for your online success. My website grew exponentially thanks to this powerful tool.

Early in my entrepreneurial journey, I learned that making content more valuable could boost search rankings – a strategy 53% of marketers swear by. Picture this: I was struggling to get my blog noticed, buried beneath a mountain of search results. Then, I discovered Semrush. It was like finding a treasure map in a labyrinth of digital noise.

In this guide, I’ll share step-by-step instructions on how to use Semrush for keyword research. By the end, you’ll understand how to uncover valuable keywords, optimize your content, and stay ahead in the competitive online landscape.

Step 1: Identify Your Competitors

Domain Overview tool in Semrush with HubSpot website as an example.

Your competitors are not your enemies; they are your teachers. 

Here’s how to start:

  1. Create a Competitor List: Start with the obvious ones you know.
  2. Use Semrush for Additional Competitors: For instance, let’s consider HubSpot.com as our domain. Use the Domain Overview feature to identify main organic competitors. Click “View Details” for a comprehensive list.
  3. Filter and Organize: Not all competitors will be relevant. Pick the most relevant ones and add them to a spreadsheet.

Step 2: Analyze Competitor Keywords

Domain Overview tool in Semrush for checking competitor domain.

By taking keywords from competitors, you can identify high-performing keywords that might be valuable for your own strategy.

With your list in hand, analyze keywords to dive into the specifics:

  1. Search for Competitors on Semrush: Take a competitor like monday.com and check their organic search traffic.
  2. Evaluate Keyword Intent: Keywords can be informational, transactional, or commercial. Understand the intent behind each one.
  3. Order by Search Volume and Difficulty: Prioritize high-volume, low-difficulty keywords, especially if your website’s authority is still growing.

Step 3: Cherry-Pick Relevant Keywords

Organic Research tool in Semrush for keyword research.

This is where the magic happens:

  1. Select Keywords: Choose those most relevant to your business.
  2. Create a Spreadsheet: Document each keyword along with its search volume, difficulty, and intent.

Step 4: Expand Your Keyword List

By now, your list should be growing:

  1. Repeat for Each Competitor: Consistency is key. Analyze each competitor similarly.
  2. Build a Comprehensive List: Over time, you’ll accumulate a vast array of potential keywords.

Making the Most of Semrush’s Free Trial

Typically, Semrush offers a 7-day trial, which might not suffice for an exhaustive research process. Luckily, I’ve partnered with Semrush to offer you a 14-day Pro trial — ample time to dive deep into keyword research, article briefs, and backlink audits.

If you find Semrush as beneficial as I do, consider upgrading to a paid plan. By using my affiliate link, you’ll support my work, and I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Practical Tips and Personal Insights

From my experience:

  • Use the Keyword Magic Tool: This feature is a goldmine for discovering long-tail keywords.
  • Leverage the Competitor Gap Tool: Find keywords your competitors rank for but you don’t.
  • Backlink Analysis: Understand where your competitors get their links and aim to acquire similar ones.

Why Semrush?

Semrush isn’t just a tool; it’s a mentor. It provides clarity in the often murky waters of SEO and keyword strategy. Through my entrepreneurial journey, it’s been an invaluable ally, helping me turn keyword insights into actionable, revenue-driving content.

Conclusion

Keyword research is the bedrock of successful online content strategies. With Semrush, you’re not just gathering data; you’re gaining insights that drive results. Whether you’re just dipping your toes into the world of SEO or looking to refine your approach, these steps will help you harness the power of Semrush to its fullest potential.

Remember, success in online business doesn’t come from luck; it comes from strategy and the right tools. Equip yourself with Semrush and watch your online presence flourish. For those ready to dive in, take advantage of the extended trial and see the difference for yourself.

Disclaimer: Some of the links above may be affiliate links, which means that if you click on them, I may receive a small commission. The commission is paid by the retailers at no cost to you, and this helps to support our channel and keep our videos free.