Skip to content

Are zero volume keywords worth it?

20/12/2023

Profile Pic
Victoria Roscow
Background Ink Splatter
Featured Image Background
Featured Image Background
Background Texture
Background Texture
Background Texture

The knee-jerk SEO answer to whether zero volume keywords are worth targeting is usually NO. Seems sound. Keywords that have no recorded data of being searched by users online surely can’t be of any benefit to your SEO strategy – or can they?

What are zero volume keywords?

Potentially useless for SEO (or not…). As the name suggests, zero volume keywords refer to keywords that have no search volume or very low search volume. These are keywords that people rarely use in their search queries. They are often very long-tail keywords or incredibly niche, and ones you probably haven’t thought of. And therein lies the opportunity for marketers.

When conducting keyword research for SEO or PPC campaigns, marketers often prioritise keywords with high search volume. The main reason for this is to reach a larger audience and increase the chances of generating traffic and conversions. However, overlooking zero volume keywords can be a missed opportunity.

Firstly, it’s important to understand why some keywords have zero or low search volume. These keywords might be highly specific or niche-related, targeting a smaller audience. While they may not attract a large number of searches, they can still be valuable if they align with your business goals and target audience.

 

Benefits of targeting zero volume keywords:

1. Long-tail keyword opportunities

Zero volume keywords often fall into the category of long-tail keywords. These keywords are longer and more specific phrases that may not have high search volume individually but can collectively attract targeted traffic. Long-tail keywords tend to have less competition, making it easier to rank higher in search engine results. By targeting these keywords, you can tap into a specific audience segment that is more likely to convert.

 

2. Niche targeting

Zero volume keywords are often associated with niche markets. If your business operates within a specific industry or caters to a unique audience, targeting zero volume keywords relevant to your niche can help you reach the right people. While the search volume may be low, the conversion rate for these keywords might be higher, as they attract customers who are actively looking for specific products or services.

 

3. Less competition

Keywords with high search volume usually face intense competition, making it harder to rank organically or achieve a favourable ad position in PPC campaigns. On the other hand, zero volume keywords typically have fewer competitors. By targeting these keywords, you have a better chance of standing out and gaining visibility without spending excessive amounts on advertising.

 

4. Future growth potential

Just because a keyword has zero search volume now doesn’t mean that it will always be the case. Trends and consumer habits change over time, and niche or emerging topics can gain popularity. By identifying zero volume keywords that align with your long-term strategy, you can position yourself as an early adopter and establish authority before the competition catches on.

 

How to find zero volume keywords

Finding zero volume keywords can be a useful strategy in SEO to target specific niche audiences and minimise competition. Zero volume keywords are those that have little to no search volume on search engines. To find zero volume keywords, you can use keyword research tools like Google Keyword Planner, SEMrush, or Ahrefs. Start by brainstorming relevant terms or phrases related to your niche. Then, use these tools to analyse the search volume for each keyword. Look for keywords that show zero or very low search volumes. These keywords may have less competition and can help you target a specific audience segment. Incorporating these zero volume keywords into your content and optimisation strategies can help you attract more targeted, niche traffic to your website.

 

Zero volume keywords – the future of SEO?

When deciding whether zero volume keywords are worth pursuing, it’s crucial to consider your overall marketing objectives, target audience, and available resources. While high volume keywords bring in more traffic, the benefits of targeting zero volume keywords should not be overlooked, especially for those operating in niche or local markets, or looking for more targeted and qualified leads. By incorporating a mix of high volume and zero volume keywords into your digital marketing strategy, you can maximise your online visibility and drive real growth for your business.

Get the latest insights and tips straight to your inbox