Free SEO Tools to Check Keyword Traffic for Entrepreneurs

If you're an entrepreneur with an eye on growing your business through digital marketing, you know that understanding what your potential clients search for online is a game-changer.

But let's be honest: hiring a full SEO team might not be in the cards just yet, especially when you're already investing in high-quality content creation.

Thankfully, several free tools let you check keyword traffic and get valuable insights into what your audience is searching for. Let's dive into the best options available, ideal for business owners already seeing a healthy income who want to grow even further.

Why Keyword Research Matters for Established Entrepreneurs

Keyword research isn't just for the big players. As a business owner already bringing in at least £50k a year, you're likely competing in a more crowded market. You want to ensure that your website, blog posts, and other digital content don't just sit there but actively attract and engage your audience.

Getting to grips with keyword research helps you:

• Identify trends and gaps in the market.

• Rank higher in search engines.

• Better understand customer needs and fine-tune your messaging.

Now, let's look at the top free keyword tools and how they can help you get the insights you need.

1. Google Keyword Planner

Google Keyword Planner is a classic choice widely used by businesses at all stages. Originally built for Google Ads, it's also a robust tool for keyword research.

How It Works  

Simply enter a keyword related to your business (for instance, if you're running a coaching business, try "leadership coaching for entrepreneurs"). Google Keyword Planner will give you search volume, competition, and related keywords. This data can guide you in choosing keywords for blog posts, product pages, or even ads.

Example:

Imagine you're a property consultant who recently launched a side business in real estate coaching. Google Keyword Planner could reveal if your audience is searching more for "property coaching UK" or "real estate mentoring London," helping you decide where to focus.

Limitations

You'll need a Google Ads account to access Google Keyword Planner, but you don't have to run any ads to use it. Data can be broad, but it's enough to get started.

2. Ubersuggest

Ubersuggest is a go-to for many small business owners because it's user-friendly and packed with features, even on the free version. Developed by marketing expert Neil Patel, this tool is particularly valuable for seeing how competitive a keyword is.

How It Works  

Type in a keyword, and Ubersuggest provides search volume, competition levels, and related keyword ideas. You can also check your competitors' domain authority if you consider expanding into more competitive niches.

Example:

Let’s say you're a nutritionist targeting high-earning executives with personalised health plans. You might wonder whether to use "corporate wellness programs" or "executive nutritionist." Ubersuggest helps you check which one has a higher search volume and lower competition.

Limitations

Free searches are limited per day, but it's sufficient for testing a few keywords before committing to a paid plan.

3. Ahrefs Keyword Generator  

Ahrefs is known as a powerhouse in SEO, but it's pricey. Fortunately, their free Keyword Generator offers a helpful preview of what's possible with Ahrefs.

How It Works  

Enter a keyword, and Ahrefs gives you search volume and difficulty level for up to 100 keywords related to your query. If you're serious about scaling, this tool can give you ideas that keep your content fresh.

Example:

Maybe you run an online store specialising in high-end kitchen gadgets. Should you focus on "luxury kitchen gadgets" or "premium cookware"? Ahrefs Keyword Generator will help you decide by showing keyword popularity and difficulty so you can target the most effective terms.

Limitations

You're limited to 100 keyword suggestions and basic metrics, but this could be all you need for smaller campaigns.

4. AnswerThePublic  

AnswerThePublic is a hidden gem for content ideas. Rather than giving you search volumes, it focuses on common questions people ask around your keywords. This is perfect for creating blog content that directly answers client pain points.

How It Works  

Enter your main keyword, and AnswerThePublic spits out questions and phrases people are typing into search engines. This approach can position you as the go-to expert by answering precisely what people want to know.

Example:  

Say you're a financial advisor specialising in helping business owners with wealth management. Typing in "business wealth management" might show phrases like "how to save tax as a business owner" or "how to invest profits," both fantastic starting points for blog content.

Limitations  

You can perform only a few searches per day for free. Consider upgrading if you're doing intensive content planning.

5. Keyword Surfer (Chrome Extension)  

Keyword Surfer is a free Chrome extension that gives you search volume data right within your Google search results. This tool is excellent if you like to keep things straightforward.

How It Works  

Once installed, Keyword Surfer displays the search volume and related keywords as you browse. This can be helpful if you're quickly testing out ideas on the fly.

Example:  

Maybe you're testing keywords like "small business lawyer UK" or "legal help for UK startups" while looking for ideas for new service pages. Keyword Surfer shows you the search volume alongside your search results, making it easy to spot trending terms without switching tabs.

Limitations  

It's limited to showing data for Google searches only and might not have advanced metrics, but it's a useful tool for quick insights.

6. Google Trends  

While it doesn't provide specific search volumes, Google Trends shows how search interest changes over time, so you can spot seasonal trends and act accordingly.

How It Works  

Enter a keyword or compare several keywords, and Google Trends will show you how interest has shifted in recent months or years. This can be especially valuable if you work in a seasonal industry, like travel or events.

Example:  

If you run a photography business, you might notice terms like "wedding photography UK" spike in spring and summer. Or, if you sell luxury Christmas hampers, trends could show an annual uptick starting in October.

Limitations  

You won't get search volumes, only a trend graph. But it's helpful for knowing when to start promoting seasonal content.

These free tools can empower you to conduct keyword research without breaking the bank, but they can't fully replace a content writer or SEO expert. You'll be better positioned to attract new clients with targeted, keyword-rich content.

Incorporate these insights into your SEO routine, and you'll be on your way to creating a digital presence that attracts high-value clients.