To use Ahrefs for localized keyword research in Canada’s bilingual market, you should leverage its country and location filters to identify high-ranking keywords in both English and French, analyze competitors, and focus on local search intent specific to Canadian regions, especially Quebec for French keywords.
Key steps include:
-
Set Location Filters to Canada and Specific Regions
In Ahrefs’ Keywords Explorer or Rank Tracker, select Canada as the country. For more granular targeting, add cities or provinces (e.g., Montreal, Quebec) to capture local search behaviour and regional language preferences. -
Research Both English and French Keywords
Since Canada is bilingual, include French keywords alongside English ones. Use Ahrefs to find French search terms relevant to your niche, especially if targeting Quebec, where 85% prefer French. This dual-language approach helps capture a wider audience and respects local language preferences. -
Analyze Competitors and Content Gaps
Use Ahrefs’ Site Explorer to input URLs of local competitors in Canada and see which keywords they rank for, including bilingual content. The “Content Gap” feature helps identify keywords your competitors rank for but you don’t, highlighting opportunities in both languages. -
Focus on Long-Tail and Question-Based Keywords
Target long-tail keywords (three or more words) and question-based queries that reflect local user intent, such as “best plumbers in Toronto” or “où acheter des bottes d’hiver à Montréal” (where to buy winter boots in Montreal). -
Track Local Keyword Rankings
Use Ahrefs Rank Tracker to monitor your keyword rankings by city or postal code within Canada. This helps you measure performance in specific bilingual markets and adjust your strategy accordingly. -
Incorporate Seasonal and Cultural Nuances
Consider Canadian seasonal trends (e.g., “camping gear” in summer, “snow shovels” in winter) and cultural differences between English and French-speaking regions to optimize keyword selection.
By combining Ahrefs’ powerful keyword research and competitor analysis tools with careful attention to Canada’s bilingual and regional diversity, you can develop a localized SEO strategy that effectively targets both English and French-speaking audiences across Canadian markets.
Summary Table: Using Ahrefs for Localized Keyword Research in Canada
| Step | Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Set Location Filters | Choose Canada and specific cities/provinces | Capture local search intent and language usage |
| Research English & French | Include keywords in both languages | Reach bilingual market, especially Quebec |
| Analyze Competitors | Use Site Explorer and Content Gap | Identify keyword opportunities and gaps |
| Target Long-Tail & Questions | Find specific, less competitive, and user-intent keywords | Improve ranking chances and relevance |
| Track Local Rankings | Use Rank Tracker with city/postal code filters | Monitor performance in localized markets |
| Consider Seasonal/Cultural | Adjust keywords based on Canadian seasons and cultural preferences | Align with user behaviour and search trends |
This approach ensures your keyword research is comprehensive, bilingual, and regionally relevant for Canada’s unique market.
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