Keyword Intent Across Industries: Why Smart SEO Isn’t About Traffic—It’s About Timing

First published here.

When it comes to SEO, there’s one golden rule that applies whether you're booking campsites, filling an event calendar, or landing new builds: Intent beats volume.

Here’s how the four types of keyword intent apply across three service-driven industries—and how to turn those insights into conversions.

Event Venue Marketing: From Browsers to Bookers

Intent Type to Target: Commercial + Transactional

High-volume search terms like “wedding venues” are saturated—and vague. The real ROI is in phrases that reflect decision-making and readiness.

- Commercial keyword example:

  “Best rustic wedding venues near Asheville with overnight accommodations”

  → Use on comparison blog posts or venue feature pages.

- Transactional keyword example:

  “Book affordable event space in Asheville for 50 guests”

  → Optimize your booking page and Google Ads around this phrase to drive fast action.

See Also: Best Event Venue in SF

Construction Contractor SEO: Stop Attracting DIYers

Intent Type to Target: Transactional + Informational

Contractor sites often rank for “how to fix a roof” or “foundation problems”—and then wonder why visitors bounce. Flip the script.

- Informational keyword example:

  “What to expect in a home addition estimate NC”

  → Use for authority blog content that funnels to your lead form.

- Transactional keyword example:

  “Hire licensed home contractor Raleigh NC”

  → Include on service pages with trust builders like reviews and license numbers.

RV Park Marketing: More Bookings, Fewer Tire-Kickers

Intent Type to Target: Commercial + Transactional

We’ve covered this in depth, but here’s the quick refresher:

- Commercial keyword example:

  “Top-rated pet-friendly RV parks in the Smoky Mountains”

  → Ideal for blog content, directories, and comparison guides.

- Transactional keyword example:

  “Reserve RV site with full hookups near Gatlinburg”

  → Pin this phrase to your CTA-heavy landing pages.

See Also: RV Park SEO for SMBs

The Takeaway?

Ranking for keywords is nice.

Ranking for keywords that convert is how businesses grow.

Whether you’re hosting weddings or laying concrete, ask yourself: What does my ideal customer type when they’re ready to hire me? Then, build content around that.