Amazon Search Term Optimization: A Definitive Guide

amazon search term optimization

Last Updated: April 2024

Looking to boost your product visibility on Amazon using Amazon search term optimization? Then, you must read this article to master this art as it is your ticket to standing out in the crowded marketplace.

Approximately 70% of Amazon shoppers don’t venture past the first search results page.

With millions of products vying for attention, understanding how to fine-tune your search terms is the secret weapon for sellers.

In this definitive guide, we’ll unravel the strategies, tips, and best practices to elevate your Amazon game and ensure your products shine amidst the competition.

Amazon Search Term Optimization – A10 Algorithm

Unlocking the mysteries of Amazon’s A10 algorithm is key to mastering search term optimization. This algorithm is Amazon’s secret sauce, determining which products rank higher in search results.

It analyzes various factors like customer engagement, relevance, and conversion rates to decide which products appear prominently.

Understanding how A10 works empowers you to strategically optimize your search terms, ensuring your products get noticed by more potential buyers.

How does A10 Algorithm Work?

a. Relevance is Key

A10 prioritizes relevance, considering keywords, product titles, and descriptions to determine ranking.

b. Customer Behavior Matters

It tracks customer actions like clicks and purchases and assesses product popularity based on these interactions.

c. Optimize Keywords and Information

Using high-ranking keywords and accurate product details can improve your chances of ranking higher.

d. Sales Velocity Impact

A10 values sales velocity, meaning consistent sales activity also has a greater influence on ranking.

Comprehending A10’s focus on relevance, customer behavior, and consistent sales guides an effective strategy for better visibility on Amazon.

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How are Amazon Search Terms Different from Backend Keywords?

Amazon Search Terms

These are the keywords or phrases you intentionally place in your product listing. They directly impact your product’s visibility when customers search on Amazon.

Search terms are visible to shoppers and play a crucial role in determining where your product appears in search results.

Backend Keywords

Unlike search terms, backend keywords are hidden. They’re used in the backend of your Amazon Seller Central account.

These keywords aren’t visible to customers but are crucial for improving search results. They help Amazon’s algorithm understand the context of your product, enhancing its chances of appearing in relevant searches.

Technical Difference between Amazon Search Terms & Backend Keywords

Aspect

Amazon Search Terms

Backend Keywords

Visibility

Visible to shoppers

Not visible to shoppers

Placement

Entered in specific fields in the product listing

Entered in the backend of Seller Central

Character Limit

Limited to 250 characters

Limited to 250 bytes

Impact on Ranking

Directly impacts search visibility

Helps Amazon’s algorithm understand product context

Usage Importance

Critical for customer search visibility

Supports product indexing and categorization

Learning the distinction between Amazon Search Terms and Backend Keywords helps you strategically place relevant keywords where they matter most, directly impacting your product’s visibility to potential buyers.

This knowledge empowers you to optimize both visible and hidden elements, maximizing your product’s chances of ranking higher in searches and reaching more customers.

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How to do Amazon Search Term Optimization?

Follow the below-given steps to optimize your Amazon search terms effectively, and increase the visibility of your products to drive more traffic to your listings.

1. Keyword Research

This includes recognizing the most pertinent and effective keywords for your product’s optimization. Use Amazon’s autocomplete to get suggestions as you type.

Look at competitor keywords to see what works for them. Also, try tools like Helium 10 or Jungle Scout for keyword research.

Example: If you’re selling yoga mats, relevant keywords could include “non-slip yoga mat” or “extra-thick exercise mat“.

2. Front-End Optimization

Incorporate the chosen keywords naturally into visible areas of your product listing, such as the product title, bullet points, and product description. Ensure these keywords enhance the content and resonate with potential buyers.

Example: In a product title for a camping tent, using “waterproof” or “easy-setup” could attract interested customers.

3. Back-End Optimization

Place keywords strategically in the backend fields, such as the Search Terms section in your seller central account. Use this space efficiently by including relevant keywords that might not fit naturally in the visible parts of your listing.

Example: Include misspellings or different word orders like “tent for camping” and “camping tent” to enable various search queries.

4. Monitor and Update

Review your keyword performance regularly and update them based on data insights like changes in customer behavior, or trends. Track which keywords are driving traffic and conversions by using Amazon’s analytics tools and then adjust your strategy accordingly.

Example: Assume that the “durable camping tent” is performing well, then consider emphasizing similar terms in your listing.

5. A/B Testing

Experiment with different keyword strategies or variations in your listings to compare their performance. Test different sets of keywords or arrangements to see which ones attract more traffic and conversions.

Example: Try using different keyword variations in your product title and observe which one resonates better with your audience.

Not just these, we are giving you bonus tips to enhance your search term optimization process on Amazon and derive more effective results. Be sure to follow it all.

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Tips for Amazon Search Term Optimization

I. Avoid Keyword Stuffing

Focus on natural language and readability when incorporating keywords. Avoid excess repetition of keywords or stuffing them unnaturally into your content. It harms the quality and authenticity of your listing if you do so.

Example: Instead of repeating “best yoga mat” multiple times, use variations like “top-rated yoga mat” or “premium exercise mat.”

II. Utilize Variations and Synonyms

Broaden your keyword approach by incorporating alternative terms and synonyms related to your main keywords. This extends the reach of your listing to capture a wider audience without overusing specific terms.

Example: For a skincare product, variations could include “facial cream,” “face moisturizer,” or “skin hydrating lotion.”

III. Optimize for Mobile

Optimize your keywords and content for mobile devices since a significant portion of Amazon shoppers use smartphones or tablets. Keep sentences concise, use bullet points effectively, and ensure readability on smaller screens to enhance the mobile shopping experience.

Thats it. With that, we have covered how to optimize Amazon search terms, along with some key differences and tips. Please note that there is always room for improvisation, hence pay attention to the next section where we will alert you about a few common errors that can occur.

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Avoid some Common Mistakes while Optimization

amazon search term optimization

Steering clear of these mistakes ensures your optimization efforts align with Amazon’s guidelines and improve your product’s visibility without compromising quality.

  • Repetition: Repeating keywords excessively can harm your listing’s quality and readability. Aim for natural usage without overusing the same terms.
  • Punctuation: Using unnecessary punctuation in your search terms or backend keywords might confuse Amazon’s algorithm. Stick to essential punctuation for clarity.
  • Using ASINs: Avoid including ASINs (Amazon Standard Identification Numbers) in your search terms; they’re unnecessary and don’t improve visibility.
  • Stop Words: While some stop words (e.g., “and,” “the,” “in”) can be useful in natural language, avoid overloading your keywords with these; focus on more impactful terms.
  • Subjective Statements: Refrain from overly subjective statements or opinions in your search terms; aim for objective and descriptive terms instead.
  • Refrain from using Promotional Tone: Avoid sounding overly promotional or sales-oriented in your search terms; prioritize informative and descriptive language for better engagement.

Also, read 5 Best Amazon Outsourcing Customer Service Agencies

Amazon Search Term Optimization – Final Wrap

As you navigate the dynamic landscape of Amazon, harnessing the power of search term optimization is your pathway to visibility.

Because around 81% of clicks are directed towards brands that appear on the first page of Amazon’s search results.

Furthermore, elevate your Amazon game with Helplama‘s exceptional customer service outsourcing. Their dedicated support team ensures your customers receive top-notch assistance 24/7, fostering loyalty and propelling your business toward sustained success.