Skip to main content
SEO, GEO & Content

Keyword Research Before Google Ads or SEO Services

Aigars Armanovs Aigars Armanovs
• 17.01.22. • 3 min read
Historical Editorial Note

Historical editorial note: Keyword research is the foundation of every campaign. Today, instead of exact matches, we analyze the user's semantic search intent and AI query patterns. Learn more about our SEO optimization and Google Ads services.

Google search operates on the principle of context - a person performs a search (text or voice) and Google outputs various results. The results can be anything - an immediate ready answer displayed right there (for example, time, temperature, sports match result, or a mathematical expression), Google search results, Google ads that match the search, links to various websites with descriptions, images, videos, map locations, and business profile information.

For companies wanting to appear in any of these results, they must first know which keywords or phrases their target audience enters to find relevant results. Therefore, keyword research must be performed. Today we will discuss this - several recommendations and steps on how you can relatively quickly, easily, and affordably find not only all industry keywords, but also the best keywords and phrases that will deliver a better return on investment.

Keyword research is the foundation when planning new website development, as well as launching Google Ads campaigns and SEO optimization. MMN always advises its clients to first test discovered keywords in Google Ads campaigns and only then incorporate them into SEO strategies. This is especially important for new companies, in new industries, and in new markets.

Key Takeaways

Keyword research is the process of identifying exact search queries that your target audience enters into Google to find specific products, services, or answers. Professional research includes analyzing search volume, competition level, and search intent. In the local market, it is recommended to first test keywords using a small-budget Google Ads campaign to evaluate actual conversion returns before creating long-term SEO content.

Frequently Asked Questions About Keyword Research

How often should a company conduct keyword research?
Basic keyword research should be performed before website development or campaign launches, while an in-depth audit is recommended every 6 to 12 months or before introducing new product lines to spot new market trends and seasonal queries.
What is the difference between short-tail and long-tail keywords?
Short-tail keywords (1-2 words, e.g., "accounting") provide high search volume but low purchase intent. Long-tail phrases (3+ words, e.g., "accounting services for small businesses in Riga") deliver lower volume, but significantly higher conversion rates and lower competition.
Does keyword research differ for Google Ads and SEO optimization?
Google Ads campaigns focus on immediate commercial intent and cost-per-click (CPC), whereas SEO optimization covers a broader purchase journey, including informational queries, content clusters, and buying guides.

Want to conduct professional keyword and competitor research in your industry?

Book a 15-minute strategy call. We will identify the most profitable keywords and prepare a concrete action plan.

Fixed budget. No hidden fees or forced add-on services.
Useful insight?

Share this article with colleagues or partners

Help others discover practical digital marketing, SEO, and AI automation strategies.

Aigars Armanovs

Aigars Armanovs

SEO & GEO Architect & AI Lead | Founder of MMN

Founder of MarketMeNow, SEO & GEO Architect, and AI Automation Strategist with 15+ years of hands-on experience scaling e-commerce and B2B companies.

All author articles • SEO & GEO Services • LinkedIn Profile
← Previous Article

2021 Digital Marketing Summary and Strategic Priorities for 2022

Next Article →

The End of Expanded Text Ads and the New Approach to Google Ads Copywriting

Back to All Articles

Ready to discuss your digital business growth?

Book a 30-minute strategy call. Together we will review your digital marketing, SEO, and AI automation potential.

Book a Free Call
Scroll to Top
Call
Book 15-min Call Reply within 2h