There’s no doubt that Amazon is the undisputed king of online shopping. After all, a mind-blowing 12-million orders are placed there every day by customers all over the world.
If you’re running an eCommerce business, getting your products noticed there is a pretty big deal. So knowing the ins and outs of Amazon SEO and its A9 algorithm is critical to making your products pop in front of potential customers.
But where do you start? That’s precisely what we’ve set out to answer through this post.
In this article, we’ll navigate through the maze that is Amazon SEO optimization and break down the complexities of the A9 algorithm into simple terms. We’ll also offer actionable tips and strategies around Amazon product listing optimization that can help you turn your clicks into conversions.
What Is the Amazon A9 Algorithm?
At the core of making your products stand out on Amazon is the A9 algorithm. It’s a complex system that’s essentially the gatekeeper between your products and potential buyers.
The A9 algorithm is why having a solid understanding of Amazon SEO is so important for any Amazon seller. It’s the difference between products that simply exist versus those that thrive in such a competitive marketplace.
How Does the Amazon A9 Algorithm Work?
Think of it as the brain of the entire Amazon ecosystem. The algorithm’s responsibility is to sift through millions of products and match search queries with the most relevant listings.
Optimizing for the A9 algorithm is non-negotiable for any Amazon seller. It requires you to develop a strategic Amazon SEO strategy that aligns with how the algorithm thinks and operates.
Mastering the A9 algorithm dramatically increases your visibility and ultimately your sales numbers. But to do that means deep diving into the nuances of Amazon optimization, either on your own or with the expertise of an Amazon SEO agency like Taktical Digital.
What Are the Amazon A9’s Key Ranking Factors?
Finding success with Amazon SEO requires a keen understanding of the Amazon A9 algorithm’s key ranking factors. Tailoring your products for the below 4 elements can significantly increase your chances of being seen by customers:
- Product Titles: Your title is your first impression. Make it count by including crucial keywords that describe your product and match common search queries.
- Images: High-quality, clear images that showcase your product from various angles can drastically improve click-through rates. Amazon favors listings that visually communicate the product’s value and quality.
- Customer Feedback: Positive reviews serve as a vote of confidence to both potential buyers and the A9 algorithm. Encouraging satisfied customers to leave feedback will add to your product’s credibility and boost its search ranking.
- Backend Keywords: These hidden keywords are your secret weapon. Use them wisely to include relevant search terms that didn’t fit naturally in your product description or title.
How Does the A9 Algorithm Impact Keyword Selection and Optimization in Amazon PPC campaigns?
The A9 algorithm’s influence stretches beyond organic Amazon SEO. It’s also pivotal to the success of your Amazon PPC campaigns.
Basically, the algorithm dictates that keywords aligned with high customer engagement and conversion rates tend to cost less.
So, what’s the move? If you’re a seller, you have to adopt a two-pronged approach to Amazon listing optimization:
- Select keywords with a proven track record of sales success.
- Continue to refine them based on campaign performance data.
This means you’ll have to constantly dive into keyword analytics on a regular basis. Identify the terms that maximize visibility and conversions while tweaking your bids and ad copy accordingly.
A Step-by-Step Approach for Maximizing Conversions
Diving into SEO for Amazon without a game plan for conversion is like setting sail without a compass. You need a strategy that leverages the A9 algorithm and turns browsers into buyers.
Here’s 5-step process with an example for how to chart your course:
Step 1: Keyword Research
Your first step is thorough keyword research. Don’t just chase the high-volume terms. Dig for niche keywords that are relevant to your product. This mix ensures you’re capturing both broad and specific audiences who might buy what you’re selling.
“By using a combination of third-party keyword tools and AI tools, it fits preferably into optimizing your listings for A9,”
– Eitan Nidam, Director of Amazon Marketplace Sales at Taktical
Let’s use the company called BARK as an example. They’re known for delivering high quality pet subscription boxes right to their customers’ doorsteps.
For BARK, we could dig into keyword research for their Amazon listings and explore beyond general terms like “dog subscription box” or “dog toys”. The goal would be to unearth niche keywords that potential customers might be using, such as “eco-friendly dog toys” and “allergy-friendly dog treats”.
This strategy would connect BARK with dog owners looking for specific features in their products. By drilling down the keyword research, BARK’s Amazon listings would reach more target users who are highly motivated as they search for their specific needs.
Step 2: Listing Enhancement
Next, spruce up your listings with content that does more than describe your product. It should answer potential customer inquiries and highlight the benefits that make it stand out. Think of your product description as a sales pitch to both A9 and your customers.
Let’s go back to our BARK example and paint a picture of how we’d execute this step in their Amazon SEO strategy today.
BARK’s listings could do more than share what’s in their subscription boxes. They can paint a picture of a happier, healthier dog thanks to their carefully curated selection of toys and treats.
For instance, they could highlight how their toys are designed to withstand hours of play or that they’re made from safe, non-toxic materials. These small-but-mighty details not only answer questions from potential customers, but also they tap into the emotional satisfaction of providing the best for their pets.
Step 3: Visuals That Speak
Seeing is believing when it comes to online shopping. High-resolution images and videos can significantly boost conversion rates by giving customers a detailed and immersive demo of your product.
Looking again at BARK, it’s clear they understand the assignment. We actually wouldn’t change a thing they’re doing today because their existing Amazon listings are a shining example of visual storytelling in action.
For example, they have static images of dogs sitting comfortably on their memory foam beds. They also bring these products to life with short videos that demonstrate their unboxing and setup.
Step 4: The Power of Reviews
Positive customer feedback is gold in the eyes of Amazon SEO. Encourage your satisfied customers to share their experiences and address any negative feedback with swift and thoughtful responses.
This improves your product’s standing with A9 and builds trust with potential customers. Seeing satisfied customers will no doubt influence a prospect’s decision to buy what you’re selling.
For BARK, leveraging customer reviews is a strategic part of reinforcing their brand’s promise of quality and satisfaction. Their approach involves highlighting glowing testimonials in high-res imagery that speak to the joy and value their subscription boxes bring to pets and their owners.
Step 5: Data-Driven Decisions
Finally, it’s important to remember that the journey with A9 is ongoing. Regularly analyze your performance data to refine your Amazon SEO strategy. The Amazon algorithm is always evolving, so it’s important to evolve alongside it.
In the case of BARK, this means they need to continuously monitor how their subscription boxes are performing. It requires that they look at all their data – from sales numbers to customer feedback – on a consistent schedule.
By digging into these figures, they can identify which Amazon SEO strategies are hitting the mark and which need adjusting. For example, if certain keywords are driving more traffic and conversions, they can then double down on those in their listings and PPC campaigns.
Unlocking the Potential of Amazon SEO for Your Business
Learning how to navigate around Amazon’s A9 algorithm can help you decipher the code to eCommerce success. With the right strategy, a marketplace like Amazon offers limitless opportunities for growth and success. But it can be a real pain to figure that out alone.
At Taktical Digital, we have a track record of applying the principles of Amazon SEO on behalf of eCommerce companies across different industries. We know how to optimize Amazon listings to not only meet but exceed your sales goals.
Want to learn more about what our Amazon SEO services can do for you? Contact us today.
