Secondary keywords support your primary target with related terms and variations. Layer them naturally throughout content to capture additional search traffic without diluting main keyword focus.
How Secondary Keywords Impact Different CMS Platforms
The beauty of secondary keywords is that they work across all website platforms—be it WordPress, Shopify, Wix, Webflow, or custom-built sites. While the specifics may vary, the core idea remains the same: sprinkle related terms throughout your content to boost relevance.
WordPress
WordPress is SEO-friendly out of the box, especially with powerful plugins like Yoast SEO or Rank Math. These tools have dedicated sections for entering secondary keywords, and they encourage you to naturally integrate related terms into your headings, paragraphs, and images. For example, if your main keyword is “SEO for WordPress,” secondary keywords might include “WordPress SEO tips,” “best plugins for SEO,” or “improving page speed.”
Shopify
Shopify simplifies SEO for e-commerce sites by allowing you to optimize product descriptions, meta titles and descriptions, and blog articles. Using secondary keywords here is vital for capturing shoppers searching for specific product features or use cases. If you sell “men’s waterproof hiking boots,” secondary keywords could be “waterproof hiking shoes for men” or “durable outdoor footwear”—phrases that potential buyers might search for.
Wix
Wix has upped its SEO game, enabling easy editing of site titles, descriptions, and blog content. Integrating secondary keywords involves creating smart, keyword-rich product descriptions and blog articles that answer common customer questions. For example, a bakery specializing in gluten-free options might include secondary keywords like “gluten-free birthday cakes” or “wheat-free desserts.”
Webflow
Webflow is especially appealing for users who want top-tier SEO control. You can custom-edit meta tags, headings, and other SEO elements directly in the code. This flexibility allows you to embed secondary keywords seamlessly into your website’s structure. For a portfolio site, secondary keywords such as “digital artist portfolio” or “freelance graphic designer” can help attract relevant visitors.
Custom CMS
With a custom-built CMS, the key is to code your SEO features into your platform, ensuring easy editing of meta tags, URLs, and content. This approach allows for highly tailored secondary keyword integration. For instance, a local restaurant website might target “Seattle brunch spots” as their main keyword, using secondary keywords like “best brunch in Capitol Hill” or “Sunday brunch Seattle.”
How Secondary Keywords Apply to Various Industries
No matter your industry, secondary keywords connect what you offer to what your potential customers are actively searching for. They help you relate your content to a broader range of queries and intents.
E-commerce
In e-commerce, secondary keywords are essential in reaching those with specific needs or preferences. If you sell “organic skincare products,” secondary keywords like “cruelty-free moisturizer” or “best natural face serum” can tap into niche searches. This strategy often results in higher conversions because it matches exact customer desires.
Local Businesses
For local brick-and-mortar businesses, including location-based secondary keywords can massively improve local SEO. For example, a “Seattle bakery” might target “wedding cakes in Seattle” or “gluten-free bakeries near Capitol Hill.” These help your business get noticed by nearby customers actively looking for your services.
SaaS
Software-as-a-Service companies thrive on explaining solutions. Using secondary keywords related to problems solved—like “collaboration tools for remote teams” or “easy project management software”—helps reach users searching for solutions even if they don’t know your software exists yet.
Blogs
Bloggers aiming for authority can benefit from secondary keywords by covering all angles of their main topics. For instance, a health blog focused on “meal prep ideas” might include secondary keywords like “healthy vegetarian meal prep” or “quick prep for busy weekdays,” making their content comprehensive and search-friendly.
Final Thoughts
Incorporating secondary keywords into your SEO practice is a straightforward yet powerful way to enhance your website’s visibility and relevance. Whether you are creating new websites or optimizing existing ones across different platforms, thinking like your audience and naturally integrating related terms will open more doors for organic traffic. Remember, balance is key—use 2-4 secondary keywords per page to keep your content natural, valuable, and engaging for both users and search engines.
FAQs
Q: How many secondary keywords should I use on one page?
A: I suggest using 2-4 secondary keywords. The most important thing is that they feel natural and relevant to your content. Don’t just stuff them in—make sure they add value.
Q: Are secondary keywords more important than primary keywords?
A: No, the primary keyword is the most important. It’s the main topic of your page. However, secondary keywords are essential for supporting that main topic and helping your page rank for a wider variety of searches. They work together.
Q: Can I use long-tail keywords as secondary keywords?
A: Yes, absolutely! Many secondary keywords are also long-tail keywords. For example, if “men’s sneakers” is your primary keyword, a long-tail secondary keyword could be “comfortable walking shoes for men.” These are great for catching people who know exactly what they want.
Q: How do I find good secondary keywords?
A: You can use free tools like Google’s “People also ask” section, or keyword research tools like Ahrefs or Semrush. I often just type my primary keyword into Google and see what related searches pop up. It’s a simple but effective way to find new ideas.
