How to Build Keyword Lists with Common Qualifiers | SEO Basics

Building keyword lists with common qualifiers

When you build out your keyword list, you should also build variations of the popular
terms with common keyword qualifiers. A keyword qualifier is simply an additional
term, usually an adjective that the search users employ to further narrow their search.
For example, some Internet users might search for “Expert plumbing repair” rather
than “Plumbing repair.” Qualifiers might not always represent desirable searches;
qualifiers like “Free” and “Research” tend to indicate folks looking for a do-it-yourself
or free solution to a problem. The most popular qualifiers generally fall into one of the
few categories. Some common categories and corresponding search qualifiers are the
following:
•     Price qualifiers indicate searchers looking for a low price: cheap, free,
discount, sale, bargain, and so forth

•     Quality/Experience qualifiers indicate searchers looking for “Best in class”
providers; these searchers can make great customers because they might be
prepared to pay a premium: best, expert, experienced, professional, licensed,
bonded, and certified
•     Informational qualifiers might indicate searchers that do not have
commercial intent: research, info, how to, DIY, help, and so on
•     Time qualifiers indicate searchers looking for businesses open outside of
normal business hours: 24 hour, all night, express, late night, and so on
•     Intent qualifiers are employed by searchers that expressly want to see
commercial sites: buy, shop, store, online, and so on
•     Category qualifiers could mean any type of product variation: green (that is,
“Green furniture”), natural, energy-efficient, recycled, eco-friendly, and so on
With all the keyword research, you’ll need to apply a “Human touch.” Keyword
research is not an entirely objective undertaking purely based on statistics. You will
need to follow your instincts as you build and hone your keyword list and strategy.