In the world of search engine optimization, it is no longer enough to just focus on the main keyword. If you really want to build visibility, you have to look at user behavior - and this is where the "others searched for" box comes into play. In this article, I'll show you how you can use this feature cleverly for your SEO strategy.
What is a short click?
A short click occurs when a user clicks on a search result but leaves the page again after a few seconds - usually because it does not provide the expected information. Google recognizes this as a negative signal. In short: If you produce short clicks, you will lose your top ranking sooner or later.
What is the "Others also searched for" box?
When a user Googles a search term, clicks on a result and then quickly returns to the Google results page, Google often displays the "Others also searched for" box underneath. This contains related terms - i.e. search queries that were frequently made in connection with the original search.
This box is therefore a direct result of short clicks. For you, this means that if you manage to create content for these related search terms, you can generate additional traffic - sometimes even from the competition.
How do I prevent short clicks?
Quite simply: Provide more relevant content.
- Put yourself in the users' shoes: What do they really expect?
- Make sure that your content is clear, well-structured and informative.
- Use images, videos and clear call-to-actions to increase the length of stay.
The better your site meets the searcher's needs, the less likely a short click is - and the better your SEO ranking.
How you can use the "Others also searched for" box for yourself
This box is a goldmine for content ideas. Instead of just focusing on generic main keywords, you can search for more specific search queries that often have less competition but high relevance.
Use tools like:
- Google search itself (jump back manually)
- Answer the Public
- AlsoAsked
- SEO tools such as Sistrix, Ahrefs or Semrush
and find out which terms actually appear in the box. Then build suitable content - for example, separate blog articles or FAQ sections on your product pages.
We'll play this out with an example:
You are an insurance broker in Munich. Your main keyword is "insurance broker Munich". If you google it, click on a top entry and jump straight back, you will see terms such as "Others also searched for" in the box:
- Private health insurance Munich
- Disability insurance broker
- Insurance advice Munich free of charge
You can incorporate these terms specifically into your content or create separate pages for them. This way, you can reach potential customers with specific concerns - and leave the competition behind.
Does this approach help me in my online marketing?
Definitely! Google ranks pages not only by keywords, but also by relevance. So if you provide content for related search queries, your chance of ranking for a variety of terms increases. This not only increases traffic, but also improves the conversion rate because your pages serve more specific user needs.
Conclusion: Use the "Others also searched for" box for SEO
The box is more than just a feature - it's a direct insight into what users are really interested in. Use it to create more relevant content, increase your visibility and ultimately generate more sales. If you prevent short clicks and provide targeted answers instead, you win. Period. If you want to increase your visibility on Google in the long term, we can help you with search engine optimization support. Book a non-binding initial consultationwhere we can give you comprehensive advice.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What exactly does "Others also searched for" on Google mean?
The "Others also searched for" box on Google shows similar search queries that users have also entered following their original search. It typically appears when someone clicks on a result, quickly returns and then looks for more information.
Why does the "Others also searched for" box appear?
The "Others also searched for" box appears because Google recognizes that many users only visit a page briefly and then return directly to the results page. This behavior - known as a short click - indicates that the original content did not meet expectations.
Can I influence which terms are displayed in the box?
You cannot directly influence which terms are displayed in the "Others also searched for" box. Google creates this list automatically based on user data. However, you can optimize your content so that you are visible for related terms that are listed there.
How do I find out which terms appear in the box?
To find out which terms appear in the "Others also searched for" box, you can search for them yourself: Simply google a keyword, click on a result, wait briefly and click on "Back" - and the box will appear. Alternatively, tools such as AlsoAsked or Sistrix can help.
How can I use the box strategically for my SEO?
You can use the "Others also searched for" box strategically by using the terms displayed there as inspiration for new content. For example, create blog articles, landing pages or FAQ sections that target these specific questions and search intentions.
What is a short click and why is it bad for the ranking?
A short click is when users quickly leave a page. This is bad for your ranking because Google concludes that the content was not helpful - which can lead to lower rankings in the long term.
Does this approach also work for online stores?
Yes, the "Others also searched for" box also works for online stores. Especially on category pages or in advice sections, you can incorporate related search terms to generate long-tail traffic and respond more specifically to user queries.
Christian Waske
Managing Director & CRO expert
Christian is Managing Director of Golden Web Age GmbH and an expert in search engine optimization. With his knowledge, he has already been able to place many well-known companies on page 1 of Google.
