Tools

Below is a selection of some of the more useful (and mostly free) online tools I’ve found helpful.

• Keyword Research. Google’s Keyword Suggestion Tool recommends relevant keywords based on either a few descriptive words or phrases, or a website’s URL. It also provides monthly U.S. and global searches on Google , and its network.
• Google Ad Preview. The Google Ad Preview page is a ”penalty-free” way to see and test your live PPC ads.
• Explore interesting patterns in what people are looking for on Yahoo! Search.
• Historical And Forecasted Search Trends. With Google Insights for Search, you can compare search volume patterns across specific regions, categories, time frames and properties. Especially helpful for seasonal businesses!
• Get Found Everywhere. Is your business information listed correctly across all the search engines, Internet directories and databases? This service makes it easy to enter your information once, and be found everywhere!
• Local Search Engine/Maps Inclusion. Check your local business listings on Google Maps, Yahoo! Local, Bing and BOTW here.
• Campaign Geo-targeting. A great mapping tool to illustrate any radius or polygon surrounding a business address or zip code. Helps you visualize and define your potential target market.
• Multiple Search Results. This site lets you compare the results of three separate search sites in a single page. Search3 strips out the original search engine layout and only shows the links from their search results.
• SEO Link Analysis. In my opinion, OpenSiteExplorer is one of the best; fast, accurate and free!
• Local Sponsored Results From Other Cities. Until now, the only way to view paid search results in other cities was by geo-modified keywords. SearchMuffin allows you to see local paid advertisers on Google from 262 cities.
• Competitive Research. With KeywordSpy you can view competitive advertiser campaign info, ads and keywords (PPC and Organic). Great info for creating a fear of loss, or for prospecting.
• SEO / Website Analysis. WooRank is a relativity new tool; free and white label versions, one of the best I’ve seen.
• Mobile SEO Analysis. Impress your friends with a quick SEO analysis via your iPhone! SEO Automatic is a $10 application from iTunes – very cool!
• Is your website “mobile friendly? Run a free report, here.
• Reserve Your Name on Hundreds of Sites. KnowEm allows you to check for the use of your brand, product, personal name or username instantly on over 350 popular and emerging social media websites.