The phrase “people also search for” (PASF) might seem like a simple addition to Google search results, but for marketers, content creators, and SEO professionals, it’s a goldmine of opportunity. This blog will explore what “people also search for” means, where it appears, and how you can integrate it into your SEO strategy to create impactful content and increase traffic.
In today’s digital landscape, AI marketing relies heavily on understanding user behavior and search intent, making “People Also Search For” keywords more valuable than ever. These keywords offer deep insights into related queries your audience is exploring, allowing AI-driven tools to predict trends, personalize content, and improve targeting strategies. By integrating “People Also Search For” data, marketers can create smarter campaigns that align more closely with what users actually want — boosting both engagement and conversion rates.
What is “People Also Search For”?
The “people also search for” feature is a Google search enhancement designed to provide users with additional queries related to their original search. It often appears as a clickable box in Google’s search result pages (SERPs), typically when a user clicks on a result but then quickly returns to the search. This indicates the user didn’t find the information they were looking for.
PASF differs from “related searches” in both placement and purpose. While related searches typically appear at the bottom of the SERP to suggest similar alternatives, PASF is more granular and dynamic, offering additional queries based on perceived intent and behavior.
For example, if someone searches for “SEO fundamentals,” clicks a result, and bounces back, Google may display PASF options like:
- What is SEO in digital marketing?
- SEO vs SEM
- How to start with SEO for beginners
The aim is to refine the user’s search journey by providing relevant, intent-focused alternatives.
A Brief History of “People Also Search For (PASF)“
Introduced by Google in early 2018, the PASF feature is part of Google’s broader efforts to improve user experience and search intent satisfaction. It leverages Google’s AI-driven algorithms to analyze user behavior and infer related queries that might provide a better answer.
The feature emerged as an evolution of Google’s continued work on intent-based search, reflecting its shift from keyword-focused algorithms to a more nuanced understanding of natural language and context.
Google’s AI now tracks patterns in search behavior, such as clicks and bounces, to display PASF options tailored to enhance the utility of each search session. It’s not just about helping users; it’s also about training Google’s own systems to get even better at predicting and fulfilling search intent in the long term.
Why “People Also Search For” is Vital for SEO
If you’re investing in SEO, PASF isn’t just a handy SEO tool for users; it’s a robust resource for you too. Here’s why it’s so important:
Enhances Content Strategy and Keyword Research
PASF is an excellent way to discover secondary and long-tail keywords that align with user intent. These queries are often niche, less competitive, and highly relevant, making them prime targets for bolstering your content’s search ranking.
Improves Topical Relevance
Integrating PASF keywords naturally into your content can create a more topic-focused piece, signaling to search engines that your page thoroughly addresses the subject matter.
Fosters Better User Experience
By targeting the suggestions Google provides, you’ll create content tailored specifically to what users want to know, reducing bounce rates and boosting engagement metrics.
Tips for Using PASF in Your Strategy
- Analyze PASF options displayed for your main keywords to find gaps in your content.
- Use PASF keywords to create blog topics, FAQ sections, and meta descriptions.
How to Find “People Also Search For” Keywords
Finding PASF keywords is fairly straightforward. Here are three effective methods:
Manual Search Using Google
- Google a target keyword.
- Click on a result.
- Return to the search results by clicking the back button.
- Review the PASF box that appears below the clicked result for additional keyword suggestions.
Use SEO Tools
Platforms like Ahrefs, SEMrush, Ubersuggest, and Moz provide dedicated tools to extract PASF queries. These tools integrate them directly into broader keyword research dashboards, allowing you to analyze potential traffic and ranking difficulty.
Browser Extensions and Plugins
Tools like Keywords Everywhere or SEO Minion offer easy-to-use browser extensions that display PASF keywords alongside other search data directly within the Google interface.
Optimizing Content with “People Also Search For” Keywords
Once you’ve identified promising PASF keywords, the next step is to incorporate them into your content. Here’s how:
Include Keywords in Headers and Meta Tags
Use PASF keywords in your H1, H2, and H3 tags as well as in your meta descriptions to signal relevance.
Structure Content Around Related Questions
If a PASF query presents a commonly searched question, answer it directly in your content with a dedicated section or FAQ item.
Create Content Silos
Group similar PASF keywords into clusters and build interlinked content pages around them. This demonstrates your authority on the topic to search engines.
Leverage Internal Links
Link keywords featured in PASF queries to relevant pages within your website to establish a strong internal linking structure.
Avoiding Mistakes When Using PASF Keywords
While PASF is a useful resource, improper use can hinder your SEO efforts. Here are the common pitfalls to watch for:
Keyword Stuffing
Don’t overuse PASF keywords just for the sake of it. Focus on natural integration that enhances readability and relevance.
Ignoring User Intent
Take the time to understand the intent behind PASF queries, ensuring your content provides the needed solution or information.
Over-Focusing on Search Volume
Don’t disregard low-volume PASF keywords if they match your audience’s needs. Relevance often trumps volume in SEO.
Elevate Your SEO Strategy With PASF
The “people also search for” feature isn’t just a helpful add-on to Google’s SERPs; it’s also a powerful resource for content creators and marketers. By leveraging PASF to find untapped keywords and uncover user intent, you can enhance your SEO strategy, connect more effectively with your audience, and drive traffic that converts.
FAQs About People Also Search For
What triggers the People Also Search For box?
The box appears when a user clicks on a search result and quickly navigates back to the SERP, indicating the initial result didn’t meet their needs.
Is it different from autocomplete or related searches?
Yes. Autocomplete provides real-time suggestions as you type, while related searches appear at the bottom of the SERP. PASF is triggered by behavior and appears beneath clicked results.
Can I rank for PASF keywords easily?
Ranking depends on competition and intent-match quality. However, PASF keywords often have less competition than primary search terms, making them excellent targets for niche content.