Learn How To Find Interior Design Keywords and Attract Better Clients

A keyword is what we type into the search bar when we’re looking for information on a certain topic. Search engines scan website copy for these words and phrases to determine which websites have the most relevant information and rank highest.

The problem is that certain keywords are competitive. Conducting a Google search for "interior design" resulted in 224,000,000 results. The first page had Wikipedia, ASID, The Art Institutes, The Washington Post and Design Milk. All of these are media powerhouses that create considerable of content.  By converting the search term to a phrase, "interior design marketing keywords" my company, Means-of-Production came up in the second and third spot on the search results page. Researching long tail keyword phrases and using them in the right way on your website Houzz page and blog will help you avoid the frustration of always being on page 22 in search engines.

The proper use of keywords are essential for getting your interior design website or blog to rank high, but it’s not the only factor. Keywords are just one component of a comprehensive search engine optimization (SEO) strategy. Used incorrectly, they can actually hurt you.

Researching Good Interior Design Keywords

Generally, you want to think about how your potential clients are searching. What are they always asking? Are they looking for advice on kid-friendly decor, creating a cottage-style look or introducing bold colors without going overboard? Then give some thought to how you might phrase these questions when searching online. Create a long list of potential interior design keywords that you can create blogs or other online content around.

Tools like Google Analytics, Keyword Tool, Wordtracker and Uber Suggest allow you to search for keyword suggestions on a particular topic and analyze the popularity of certain keywords. The trick is to choose specific interior design keywords that are regularly searched, but not too popular. Generic terms like “interior design” face a lot of competition, and you’re unlikely to rank with them. 

Keep in mind that search engine optimization is a specialized skill. Some people’s entire careers are dedicated to SEO. It’s also something of an art. It requires predictions, some guesswork and lots of trial and error. With time and practice, you can get better at SEO and start choosing interior design keywords that get your firm found online. Avoid hiring SEO specialists that send you anonymous solicitations. They often do more harm than good. We have a client that lost 40% of his website traffic and saw sales drop by 20% because of shady black hat SEO tactics and a change by Google in they way they rank websites.

How Many Keywords Should I Use?

There’s no perfect answer to this, but as a general guideline, aim for about 1-1.5 percent keyword insertion. If you’re writing a 500-word blog, try to insert the keyword five to seven times. The caveat is that you shouldn’t stuff keywords unnaturally - search engines pick up on this, and so do readers. Never try shady tactics like inserting lists of interior design keywords in hopes of ranking high. This will hurt you, not help you. 

What Else Does SEO Involve?

Again, keywords aren’t the only factor affecting rank. Here are some other factors that play a role and tips for leveraging them:

Website Design

The look and design of your website have a lot to do with rank. Search engines are looking for sites that are easy to scan, attractive and mobile friendly. They should easy to navigate and robust with multiple pages.

Content

Search engines are smart enough to distinguish good content from bad. This is partially determined by how long people stay on the page. Make sure your website copy is well-written answers questions customers might have and write blogs and other content on topics that will truly interest visitors, not just promotional pieces.

Social media

The more active you are on social media, the greater the chances people will find you in web searches. Social media sites are indexed just like other websites, so potential customers might find you that way, even if they don’t see your website.

About Michael Conway

I'm the owner and strategist at Means-of-Production. My firm builds Squarespace websites, Houzz profiles, and content marketing and advertising solutions for architects, interior designers, design-build contractors and landscape design firms. Our all-in-one marketing tactics attract the right clients with exceptional architectural photography and brand messaging that sets you apart from the competition.